hardMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
XK0-006 Practice Question: A server is unable to resolve hostnames via DNS
A server is unable to resolve hostnames via DNS. The /etc/resolv.conf file appears correct. Which command can be used to test DNS resolution and display the full query path?
⚠ Common exam trap
Test-takers frequently confuse simple DNS lookup tools (like `nslookup` or `host`) with the `dig +trace` option, assuming any DNS query tool can show the full resolution path, but only `dig +trace` explicitly performs and displays each iterative step.
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
✓
dig +trace example.com
The `dig +trace example.com` command performs a full iterative DNS resolution from the root nameservers down to the authoritative nameservers for the queried domain, displaying each step of the query path. This is the correct choice because the question specifically asks to 'display the full query path,' which `+trace` provides by following referrals step by step, unlike simpler queries that only show the final answer.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
nslookup example.com
Why it's wrong here
Basic DNS lookup, does not show full path.
- ✗
host example.com
Why it's wrong here
Simple forward lookup.
- ✗
resolvectl query example.com
Why it's wrong here
Used with systemd-resolved, not standard DNS trace.
- ✓
dig +trace example.com
Why this is correct
Correct: Traces the full DNS resolution path.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This XK0-006 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 XK0-006 exam.