220-1101 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting Practice Question
A technician is troubleshooting a desktop computer that frequently experiences blue screen errors (BSODs) with various stop codes. The technician suspects a hardware issue. Which of the following should the technician perform to help identify the cause? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is choosing actions that are fixes rather than diagnostics, such as updating BIOS or replacing the PSU, instead of gathering evidence 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
✓
Check the Event Viewer for critical system errors.
BSODs with varying stop codes often point to memory or driver issues. Running Windows Memory Diagnostic tests the RAM, a common culprit. Checking Event Viewer can reveal logged errors that correlate with the BSODs. Together, these steps help identify whether the issue is memory-related or caused by a specific driver or hardware component.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Update the motherboard BIOS to the latest version.
Why it's wrong here
While a BIOS update can fix compatibility issues, it is not a diagnostic step. Updating BIOS is a potential fix, but it does not help identify the cause of the BSODs. It also carries risk, so it should be done after other diagnostics. The question asks for steps to help identify the cause, not resolve it.
- ✗
Run a hard drive diagnostic utility to check for bad sectors.
Why it's wrong here
While a failing hard drive can cause BSODs, the stop codes are varied, and the technician suspects a hardware issue broadly. Running a hard drive diagnostic is a good step, but it is not one of the two best general diagnostic steps for BSODs. Memory and event logs are more directly related to the varied stop codes.
- ✓
Check the Event Viewer for critical system errors.
Why this is correct
Event Viewer logs critical errors, including those related to hardware failures and bug checks. Reviewing the logs around the time of the BSODs can reveal patterns, such as a specific driver or hardware component failing. This helps narrow down the cause before replacing parts.
- ✗
Replace the power supply with a higher-wattage unit.
Why it's wrong here
Replacing the PSU is a hardware change, not a diagnostic step. It might solve the issue if the PSU is faulty, but it does not help identify whether the PSU is the cause. A multimeter or PSU tester would be more appropriate for diagnosis. This action is premature without evidence.
- ✓
Run the built-in Windows Memory Diagnostic tool.
Why this is correct
Faulty RAM is a common cause of BSODs with varying stop codes. Windows Memory Diagnostic tests the RAM for errors. If it reports problems, the technician can then test individual sticks to isolate the faulty module. This is a non-destructive test that can be run from the operating system or boot menu.
Go deeper
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Key term
RAM
RAM (Random-Access Memory) is volatile computer memory that temporarily stores data for quick access by the CPU.
Key term
Dual In-line Memory Module
A Dual In-line Memory Module (DIMM) is a small circuit board that holds memory chips and plugs into a computer's motherboard to provide Random Access Memory (RAM).
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Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
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