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FC0-U71 Practice Question: A technician is troubleshooting a computer that…
A technician is troubleshooting a computer that cannot connect to the network. Which THREE steps should the technician perform first in the troubleshooting process?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is that candidates may jump to software or hardware replacement steps (like reinstalling the OS or replacing the NIC) without first performing basic physical and configuration checks, which are the foundation of systematic troubleshooting.
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 if the network cable is securely connected
Checking the physical connection is the first step in the CompTIA A+ troubleshooting methodology. A loose or damaged network cable is a common cause of connectivity failure, and verifying it eliminates the simplest issue before moving to software or configuration checks.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Reinstall the operating system
Why it's wrong here
Reinstalling the OS is an extreme measure and should be done last.
- ✓
Check if the network cable is securely connected
Why this is correct
A loose cable is a common cause; checking it is a first step.
- ✓
Verify IP address configuration
Why this is correct
Incorrect IP settings can prevent connectivity; verifying is a basic step.
- ✓
Check link lights on the network adapter
Why this is correct
Link lights indicate physical connectivity; checking them is quick and informative.
- ✗
Replace the network interface card
Why it's wrong here
Replacing hardware is a drastic step to be taken only after other checks.
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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.