220-1101 Hardware and Network Troubleshooting Practice Question
A technician is troubleshooting a desktop computer that randomly reboots during use. The technician suspects a power issue. Which of the following should the technician check? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is assuming that any random reboot is caused by overheating or RAM, when power delivery issues are equally common and should be checked first when power is suspected.
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 PSU's 24-pin and 8-pin CPU power connectors for secure seating.
Random reboots under load often stem from insufficient or unstable power. Verifying that the PSU wattage meets the system's demands and ensuring all power connectors are securely seated are fundamental steps. These checks directly address the power delivery path and can quickly identify common causes like an undersized PSU or loose connections.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Check the CPU cooler for proper mounting and thermal paste.
Why it's wrong here
CPU overheating can cause reboots, but it is a thermal issue, not a power issue. The technician specifically suspects power, so checking the CPU cooler is a different diagnostic path. While overheating can lead to shutdowns, the symptom of random reboots during use is more commonly linked to power delivery. This option would be relevant if overheating were suspected, but it is not the best choice here.
- ✓
Check the PSU's 24-pin and 8-pin CPU power connectors for secure seating.
Why this is correct
Loose or partially seated power connectors can cause intermittent power loss, leading to random reboots. The 24-pin ATX connector supplies main power to the motherboard, and the 8-pin EPS connector powers the CPU. If either is not fully inserted, resistance can build up, causing voltage drops under load. Reseating these connectors is a quick and essential step in diagnosing power issues.
- ✓
Verify the PSU wattage is sufficient for all installed components.
Why this is correct
An undersized PSU cannot deliver enough power under load, causing voltage drops and random reboots. The technician should calculate the total power draw of the CPU, GPU, drives, and peripherals and compare it to the PSU's rated wattage. If the PSU is operating near its limit, transient spikes can trigger reboots. This is a primary check for power-related instability.
- ✗
Run a memory diagnostic to rule out faulty RAM.
Why it's wrong here
While faulty RAM can cause system instability, the scenario specifies that the technician suspects a power issue. Memory problems typically cause blue screens or application crashes rather than sudden reboots. Running a memory diagnostic is a valid troubleshooting step, but it is not directly related to power delivery. The question asks what to check for a power issue, so this option is less relevant.
- ✗
Update the motherboard BIOS to the latest version.
Why it's wrong here
BIOS updates can resolve compatibility and stability issues, but they are not a primary check for power-related reboots. Random reboots under load are more likely due to inadequate or faulty power delivery. Updating BIOS is a good practice but does not address the immediate hardware suspicion. It should be considered after basic power checks are performed.
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JA
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
This 220-1101 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 220-1101 exam.