hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
220-1102 Practice Question: A technician is deploying laptops for a sales…
A technician is deploying laptops for a sales team that works remotely from coffee shops and client sites. The laptops contain sensitive customer data. Which physical security control is most practical for these mobile devices?
⚠ Common exam trap
The A+ exam often tests the distinction between physical security controls (like cable locks) and logical/authentication controls (like biometrics or smart cards), so the trap here is confusing authentication methods with physical theft prevention.
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
✓
Attach a cable lock to the laptop
A cable lock is the most practical physical security control for mobile devices used in public spaces because it physically secures the laptop to a fixed object, preventing theft. Unlike software or authentication measures, a cable lock directly addresses the risk of the device being physically taken, which is the primary threat when working in coffee shops or client sites.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Install a laptop tracking software
Why it's wrong here
While laptop tracking software can aid in locating a device after it has been stolen, it does not actively deter or prevent the initial physical act of theft. Its function is reactive, providing post-incident recovery capabilities rather than proactive physical security. The software operates logically within the operating system and cannot physically impede someone from picking up and walking away with the device.
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Use a biometric fingerprint reader on the laptop
Why it's wrong here
A biometric fingerprint reader provides a robust method for authenticating a legitimate user to gain logical access to the laptop's operating system and data. However, this security measure does not physically secure the device itself. It prevents unauthorized *use* of the laptop's contents but offers no physical barrier to prevent the entire device from being stolen.
- ✗
Require a smart card for login
Why it's wrong here
Requiring a smart card for login enhances logical access security by implementing a form of multi-factor authentication, ensuring only authorized users can access the system. This method verifies user identity before granting access to data or applications. Nevertheless, a smart card provides no physical impediment to prevent the laptop from being physically removed from its location by an unauthorized individual.
- ✓
Attach a cable lock to the laptop
Why this is correct
Attaching a cable lock to the laptop is a direct physical security control designed to deter theft by anchoring the device to an immovable object, such as a desk or table. This physical tether significantly increases the effort and time required for a thief to remove the laptop, making it a less attractive target for opportunistic theft. It provides a tangible barrier against unauthorized physical removal, directly addressing the need for physical theft prevention.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Virtualization and Client-Side
Key term
Threat
A threat is any potential danger that could harm a computer system, network, or data, whether from a malicious hacker, a natural disaster, or an accidental mistake.
Key term
Security control
A security control is a safeguard or countermeasure designed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information systems and data.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 220-1202 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 220-1202 exam.