FC0-U71 Applications and Software Practice Question
Which of the following file attributes on a Windows system would prevent a user from accidentally modifying a document when set?
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
✓
Read-only
The read-only attribute in Windows prevents a file from being modified or deleted (though it can be overridden by the user). Hidden hides the file, system marks it as a system file, and archive is used for backup.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Hidden
Why it's wrong here
Hidden only conceals the file from default directory listings; it does not block writes, so edits remain possible. It is the correct attribute for keeping configuration or system files out of ordinary view, not for protecting a document from accidental modification, which requires the Read-only attribute.
- ✓
Read-only
Why this is correct
Setting the read-only attribute blocks write and modify operations on the file, so any attempt to save changes is refused until the attribute is cleared. This directly satisfies the stem's requirement to prevent accidental modification of a document, while still allowing the user to open and read it.
- ✗
System
Why it's wrong here
System marks a file as used by the operating system, affecting how it is displayed and protected from deletion in Explorer; it does not prevent content edits. It is correct for flagging OS-critical files, whereas guarding a document against accidental modification requires the Read-only attribute.
- ✗
Archive
Why it's wrong here
Archive flags a file as changed since the last backup, so backup software knows to copy it; it imposes no write restriction. It is the correct attribute for tracking backup eligibility, not for preventing accidental modification, which the Read-only attribute enforces by blocking saves.
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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. Which file attribute prevents a file from being modified or deleted accidentally?
easy- A.Archive
- B.System
- C.Hidden
- ✓ D.Read-only
Why D: The read-only attribute prevents a file from being modified or deleted accidentally by marking it as non-writable. In Windows, this is the R attribute set via attrib +R or the file properties dialog; in Linux, it corresponds to removing write permission (chmod -w). Applications and the OS respect this flag and block write/delete operations, protecting the file from unintended changes.
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.