SK0-005 server-hardware-installation-management Practice Question
A server administrator is upgrading the RAM on a server that supports quad-channel memory architecture. They install four identical 16GB DDR4 ECC modules, but the server only recognizes the memory as operating in single-channel mode. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
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
✓
The DIMMs are not installed in the correct slots
Option C is correct because quad-channel memory requires DIMMs to be populated in specific, color-coded slots according to the motherboard's population rules. If the modules are not in the correct slots, the memory controller will operate in a lower channel mode. Option A is wrong because faulty modules would likely cause POST failures or memory errors, not simply a channel mode reduction. Option B is wrong because ECC support is not required for channel mode operation; it is an error-correction feature. Option D is wrong because while registered DIMMs are often used in servers, unregistered DIMMs can still operate in quad-channel mode if supported.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
The DIMMs are not installed in the correct slots
Why this is correct
Quad-channel mode requires DIMMs to be installed in specific slots according to the motherboard manual. Incorrect slot population results in lower channel modes.
- ✗
One of the DIMMs is faulty
Why it's wrong here
A faulty DIMM would typically cause POST failures or memory errors, not cause the system to fall back to single-channel operation.
- ✗
The DIMMs do not support ECC
Why it's wrong here
ECC is an error-correction feature and is not required for the memory controller to operate in quad-channel mode.
- ✗
The DIMMs are not registered (RDIMM)
Why it's wrong here
Many servers require RDIMMs for higher capacities, but unregistered DIMMs can still support quad-channel mode if the platform allows it.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
Operating System Installation and Configuration
Key term
Controller
A controller is a hardware chip or software program that manages data flow and communication between a computer's operating system and its connected devices or networks.
Key term
Dual In-line Memory Module
A Dual In-line Memory Module (DIMM) is a small circuit board that holds memory chips and plugs into a computer's motherboard to provide Random Access Memory (RAM).
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Same concept, more angles
1 more way this is tested on SK0-005
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 server has four memory slots on two channels (A and B). Currently, DIMM_A1 and DIMM_A2 are populated with 8 GB DDR4-2666 modules each. To maximize performance and capacity, which memory configuration should be added?
medium- A.Add two 8 GB DDR4-2400 modules to channel B
- B.Add one 8 GB DDR4-2666 module to DIMM_B1
- C.Add one 16 GB DDR4-2666 module to DIMM_B1
- ✓ D.Add two 8 GB DDR4-2666 modules to DIMM_B1 and DIMM_B2
Why D: To achieve dual-channel performance, populate both slots on channel B with identical modules. Adding two 8 GB modules to channel B will enable dual-channel operation and increase capacity to 32 GB symmetrically.
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.