Quick Answer
The correct first step when a computer won’t power on is to check whether the power cable is plugged in. This is the most fundamental requirement because a computer requires a stable electrical connection to complete its power-on self-test, and without verifying the power source, any further troubleshooting is premature. On the CompTIA ITF+ FC0-U61 exam, this question tests your understanding of the CompTIA troubleshooting methodology, which always begins with identifying the simplest and most obvious cause before moving to complex hardware diagnostics. A common trap is that test-takers immediately suspect a failed power supply or motherboard, but the exam emphasizes that loose or disconnected cables are the most frequent cause of a no-power condition. Remember the memory tip: “Plug first, panic last”—always confirm the cable is fully seated at both the computer and the wall outlet before opening the case.
This FC0-U61 practice question tests your understanding of it concepts and terminology. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A technician is troubleshooting a computer that will not power on. Which of the following should be checked FIRST?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "first"
Why it matters: Order matters here. You are being tested on which action comes before the others — not which action is generally useful.
Whether the power cable is plugged in
The most basic cause is often a loose or unplugged power cable.
The network connection
Why wrong: Network connectivity is independent of power status.
The operating system version
Why wrong: OS version is not relevant to a no-power condition.
The amount of free disk space
Why wrong: Free disk space does not prevent the computer from powering on.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Whether the power cable is plugged in
The most fundamental requirement for a computer to power on is a stable electrical connection. Checking whether the power cable is plugged in is the first step in the troubleshooting methodology because it eliminates the simplest and most common cause of a no-power condition before moving to more complex diagnostics. Without verifying the power source, any other troubleshooting is premature.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Whether the power cable is plugged in
Why this is correct
The most basic cause is often a loose or unplugged power cable.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "first" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
The network connection
Why it's wrong here
Network connectivity is independent of power status.
The operating system version
Why it's wrong here
OS version is not relevant to a no-power condition.
The amount of free disk space
Why it's wrong here
Free disk space does not prevent the computer from powering on.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates may jump to advanced software or hardware diagnostics (like checking the OS or disk space) without first verifying the most basic physical layer—the power connection—which is the cornerstone of the CompTIA troubleshooting methodology.
Detailed technical explanation
The power-on sequence begins with the power supply unit (PSU) receiving AC mains voltage, converting it to DC rails (e.g., +3.3V, +5V, +12V), and sending a Power Good signal to the motherboard. If the power cable is unseated or the PSU switch is off, the motherboard never receives this signal, preventing the CPU from executing the BIOS/UEFI startup code. In enterprise environments, a common oversight is a switched PDU outlet or a tripped circuit breaker, which mimics a dead system.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
What to study next
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FAQ
IT Concepts and Terminology — This question tests IT Concepts and Terminology — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Whether the power cable is plugged in — The most fundamental requirement for a computer to power on is a stable electrical connection. Checking whether the power cable is plugged in is the first step in the troubleshooting methodology because it eliminates the simplest and most common cause of a no-power condition before moving to more complex diagnostics. Without verifying the power source, any other troubleshooting is premature.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Yes — watch for: "first". Order matters here. You are being tested on which action comes before the others — not which action is generally useful.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 25, 2026
This FC0-U61 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-U61 exam.
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