FC0-U71 Data and Database Fundamentals Practice Question
A company stores customer data in a flat file. Which of the following is a disadvantage of using a flat file compared to a relational database?
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
✓
Flat files do not support concurrent multi-user access
Flat files lack built-in support for concurrent access, leading to data corruption or conflicts when multiple users try to update the file simultaneously.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Flat files are slower for sequential reads
Why it's wrong here
Flat files can be fast for sequential reads; the disadvantage is concurrency.
- ✗
Flat files support complex queries
Why it's wrong here
Flat files do not support SQL-like queries.
- ✓
Flat files do not support concurrent multi-user access
Why this is correct
Correct; flat files lack concurrency control.
- ✗
Flat files enforce referential integrity
Why it's wrong here
Referential integrity is a database feature.
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Same concept, more angles
2 more ways this is tested on FC0-U71
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. Which of the following is a benefit of using a database instead of a flat file?
easy- A.Simpler setup and configuration
- B.Faster file transfer speeds
- C.Lower storage requirements
- ✓ D.Support for concurrent multi-user access
Why D: Databases provide concurrent access control, allowing multiple users to read/write data simultaneously without corruption.
Variation 2. Which of the following is a primary advantage of using a database instead of a flat file system?
easy- ✓ A.Supports concurrent multi-user access with data integrity
- B.No need for data validation
- C.Data is stored in a single file for easy backup
- D.Simpler to set up and maintain
Why A: Databases provide structured storage, multi-user access, query capabilities, and data integrity, whereas flat files lack concurrent access and query languages.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This FC0-U71 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 FC0-U71 exam.