A technician builds a PC with a CPU that supports PCIe 4.0, a motherboard with PCIe 4.0-capable slots, and a PCIe 4.0 GPU. After installation, the GPU is running at PCIe 3.0 speeds according to GPU-Z. The technician has updated the motherboard BIOS to the latest version and installed the latest chipset drivers. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of the GPU not running at PCIe 4.0?

B. The GPU firmware (vBIOS) is outdated

While outdated firmware can cause compatibility issues, it would not typically force a PCIe generation downgrade; failing to run at PCIe 4.0 is usually a slot limitation.

C. The power supply unit does not provide enough wattage

Insufficient power would likely cause crashes, black screens, or failure to boot, not a reduction in PCIe link speed.

D. The GPU is not fully seated in the PCIe slot

Improper seating would typically result in no display or intermittent connection, not a stable but slower link speed.

What does this 220-1101 question test?

Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.

What is the correct answer to this question?

The correct answer is: A. The GPU is installed in a secondary PCIe slot that is limited to PCIe 3.0 — The primary PCIe x16 slot (typically the one closest to the CPU) provides full PCIe 4.0 lanes directly from the CPU. Secondary PCIe x16 slots often run at PCIe 3.0 speeds because they are connected via the chipset. If the GPU is installed in a secondary slot, it will negotiate at the slot's maximum capability, which is PCIe 3.0. An outdated GPU firmware is less common and would likely cause other issues. A PSU with insufficient power would cause instability or failure, not a speed downgrade. Loose mounting could cause no display or intermittent connection.

What should I do if I get this 220-1101 question wrong?

Then try more questions from the same exam bank and focus on understanding why the wrong options are tempting.