The answer is the `lsof /path/to/script` command, because `lsof` (List Open Files) is the standard Linux utility that displays which processes currently have a specific file open. When a script fails with a "Text file busy" error on an NFS mount, it means another process is holding the file open, preventing execution; `lsof` directly reveals that process by its PID and name. On the CompTIA A+ Core 2 220-1202 exam, this question tests your ability to troubleshoot file-locking issues, especially across network mounts where conflicts are common. A common trap is confusing `lsof` with `fuser` or `ps`—while `fuser` can also identify processes using a file, `lsof` is the more versatile and frequently tested command for listing open files and their associated processes. Remember the memory tip: "lsof shows who’s holding the file, so the script can run without a trial."
220-1102 Linux Commands and File Permissions Practice Question
This 220-1202 practice question tests your understanding of linux commands and file permissions. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A user reports that a script they run daily now fails with 'Text file busy' error. The script is located on an NFS mount. Which command will show if the script is currently being used by another process?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "which command"
Why it matters: Tests specific CLI syntax. Recall the exact command and its required context — near-synonyms and partial matches are common distractors.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
lsof /path/to/script
This tests the lsof command, which lists open files and the processes using them. lsof /path/to/script shows which process has the file open, causing the 'Text file busy' error.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
fuser /path/to/script
Why it's wrong here
fuser also shows processes using a file, but it is less commonly used than lsof; it is correct but not the most standard.
✗
ps aux | grep script
Why it's wrong here
This shows running processes with 'script' in the name, but does not specifically show if the file is open.
✓
lsof /path/to/script
Why this is correct
lsof lists all open files and the associated processes; it will show if the script is in use.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "which command" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
✗
strace -p $(pgrep script)
Why it's wrong here
strace traces system calls, not a quick check for open files.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: NAT rules depend on direction and matching traffic
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
fuser also shows processes using a file, but it is less commonly used than lsof; it is correct but not the most standard.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
PAT allows many inside hosts to share one public address using ports.
Inside local and inside global describe the private and translated addresses.
NAT ACLs identify traffic for translation, not always security filtering.
TExam Day Tips
→Identify inside and outside interfaces first.
→Check whether the scenario needs static NAT, dynamic NAT or PAT.
→Do not confuse NAT matching ACLs with normal packet-filtering intent.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
Related glossary terms
Concepts from this question explained
These glossary pages explain the core terms tested in this 220-1202 question in full detail.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related 220-1202 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Linux Commands and File Permissions — This question tests Linux Commands and File Permissions — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: lsof /path/to/script — This tests the lsof command, which lists open files and the processes using them. lsof /path/to/script shows which process has the file open, causing the 'Text file busy' error.
What should I do if I get this 220-1202 question wrong?
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related 220-1202 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "which command". Tests specific CLI syntax. Recall the exact command and its required context — near-synonyms and partial matches are common distractors.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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