SK0-005 troubleshooting Practice Question
A server administrator is troubleshooting a physical server that randomly crashes once or twice a week. The administrator has already verified that the power supply is functioning correctly and has checked the event logs for critical errors. According to standard troubleshooting methodology, what should the administrator do next?
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
✓
Run memory diagnostics (e.g., MemTest86) to test RAM.
Option B is correct because random crashes often indicate a memory issue, and running memory diagnostics is a logical next step after verifying power and logs. Option A is premature because replacing the CPU is more invasive and less likely to resolve random crashes. Option C is a last resort after hardware issues are ruled out. Option D is irrelevant to random crashes.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Check network cables and switch connections.
Why it's wrong here
Network issues typically cause connectivity problems, not random system crashes, so this step is premature.
- ✓
Run memory diagnostics (e.g., MemTest86) to test RAM.
Why this is correct
Random crashes are often caused by faulty memory; running diagnostics is a low-impact step to isolate the issue.
- ✗
Reinstall the operating system.
Why it's wrong here
Reinstalling the OS is a last resort after hardware issues have been thoroughly checked, as it may not fix hardware failures.
- ✗
Replace the CPU with a known good one.
Why it's wrong here
CPU failures are less common than memory issues; replacing the CPU is invasive and should be done after memory is cleared.
Visual reference
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Related to this question
Learn chapter
Server Hardware Components and Form Factors
Key term
Standard
A standard is an agreed-upon set of rules, guidelines, or specifications that ensure consistency, compatibility, and quality across IT products, services, and processes.
Key term
PSU
A PSU converts AC mains power into regulated DC voltages required by computer components, ensuring stable operation.
About these practice questions
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed July 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
This SK0-005 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 SK0-005 exam.