220-1102 Software Troubleshooting Practice Question
A technician attempts to install a feature update on a Windows 10 computer, but the installation fails with error code 0x80070002 (file missing). Which step should the technician take FIRST to resolve the issue?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is that candidates often jump to advanced repair tools like DISM or SFC because they associate file-missing errors with system file corruption, but the CompTIA 220-1102 exam emphasizes following the Microsoft troubleshooting methodology, which starts with the simplest automated tool first.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
The error code 0x80070002 indicates that Windows Update cannot find a required file, often due to corrupted update cache or temporary glitches. The Windows Update Troubleshooter is the recommended first step because it automatically detects and resolves common update issues, such as clearing the SoftwareDistribution folder or resetting Windows Update components, without manual intervention. Microsoft's troubleshooting hierarchy prioritizes built-in automated tools before more invasive manual repairs.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Run the Windows Update Troubleshooter
Why this is correct
The Windows Update Troubleshooter is the appropriate first step because it automatically scans for known causes of update failures—such as stopped services (wuauserv, BITS), corrupted update files, or incorrect registry settings—and applies the necessary fixes without user intervention. It is non-destructive, requires no advanced knowledge, and provides a clear outcome, making it safer and faster than manually altering system components.
- ✗
Reset Windows Update components using DISM and System File Checker
Why it's wrong here
Resetting Windows Update components with DISM and System File Checker is a more invasive recovery procedure that only repairs system image corruption and protected files; it does not directly clear the SoftwareDistribution or catroot2 folders where update files are stored. This step should be deferred until the built-in troubleshooter has failed, as running DISM or SFC prematurely could mask the underlying problem or require a clean source for repair.
- ✗
Manually download the update from the Microsoft Update Catalog
Why it's wrong here
Manually downloading the feature update from the Microsoft Update Catalog bypasses the Windows Update client entirely, so it might install successfully while leaving the root cause of the update failure unresolved. This approach can be used as a workaround, but it is not the first choice because it lacks the diagnostic context of the troubleshooter and risks installing the wrong update package if the system architecture or prerequisite updates are not verified.
- ✗
Perform a system restore to a previous point
Why it's wrong here
Performing a system restore reverts critical system files, the registry, and installed programs to an earlier snapshot, which could potentially remove a problematic update, but it does not repair the underlying Windows Update service configuration or clear corrupted update caches. Because a restore point may not exist or may be outdated, and because it rolls back unrelated system changes, it should only be considered after simpler repair tools have failed.
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Related to this question
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Troubleshoot: Memory Leak Issues
Key term
Windows 10
Windows 10 is a personal computer operating system developed by Microsoft that combines the familiarity of Windows 7 with the modern features of Windows 8, designed to run on a wide range of devices from desktops to tablets.
Key term
Windows
Windows is a family of operating systems developed by Microsoft that manages computer hardware and software, providing a graphical user interface for users to interact with their devices.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 220-1102 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 220-1102 exam.