easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
FC0-U71 That their computer is slow Practice Question
A user reports that their computer is slow. Which of the following is the BEST first step to troubleshoot?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is that candidates often jump to hardware upgrades (RAM or hard drive) as a quick fix, but CompTIA emphasizes a systematic troubleshooting process that begins with observation and data collection, not component replacement.
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 Task Manager for high resource usage.
The first step in troubleshooting a slow computer is to identify the cause of the performance issue. Task Manager provides real-time data on CPU, memory, disk, and network utilization, allowing you to pinpoint which process or resource is being overused. This diagnostic approach follows the standard troubleshooting methodology of gathering information before making changes.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Replace the hard drive.
Why it's wrong here
Replacing the hard drive is drastic and should only be done if testing confirms a drive failure.
- ✗
Upgrade the RAM.
Why it's wrong here
Upgrading RAM is a potential solution but should be based on evidence from Task Manager, not a first guess.
- ✓
Check Task Manager for high resource usage.
Why this is correct
This is the best first step because it provides immediate information about which resources are being heavily used.
- ✗
Reinstall the operating system.
Why it's wrong here
Reinstalling the OS is time-consuming and should be a last resort after other troubleshooting fails.
Go deeper
Related to this question
About these practice questions
One of 988 original FC0-U71 practice questions on Courseiva, each with a full explanation and wrong-answer analysis — not exam dumps or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
Same concept, more angles
1 more way 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. A user reports that their computer is running slowly. Which of the following is the FIRST troubleshooting step the technician should perform?
medium- A.Update device drivers
- B.Reinstall the operating system
- ✓ C.Restart the computer
- D.Run a virus scan
Why C: The first troubleshooting step for a slow computer is to restart it. Restarting clears temporary memory issues, stops unnecessary processes, and can resolve many software-related slowdowns without further intervention. Option A (Update device drivers) is not typically a first step as drivers usually don't cause gradual slowdowns. Option B (Reinstall the operating system) is a drastic step saved for last. Option D (Run a virus scan) is important but should follow a restart to ensure a clean state. Therefore, restarting is the correct initial step.
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.