SK0-005 troubleshooting Practice Question
A server fails to complete POST and emits a series of beeps: two long, three short. According to the manufacturer's documentation, this beep code indicates a memory error. The server has eight DIMMs installed. Which of the following steps should the technician perform FIRST?
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
✓
Reseat all memory modules and attempt to boot.
Option A is correct. Reseating memory modules is the least invasive and often the most effective first step for beep codes indicating memory errors, as poor connections from thermal expansion or vibration can cause such issues. Option B is excessive before attempting reseating. Option C may reset BIOS settings but does not physically reseat RAM. Option D does not directly address the immediate memory detection failure.
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 all memory modules.
Why it's wrong here
Replacing all DIMMs is costly and premature; a single loose module may cause the error, and reseating should be tried first.
- ✓
Reseat all memory modules and attempt to boot.
Why this is correct
Reseating corrects poor electrical contacts, which is the most common cause of transient memory errors signaled by POST beeps.
- ✗
Clear the CMOS battery.
Why it's wrong here
Clearing CMOS resets settings but does not address physical connectivity issues with the memory modules.
- ✗
Update the server's UEFI firmware.
Why it's wrong here
Firmware updates are not a first response to POST memory errors; they are typically applied after ruling out hardware connections and known bugs.
Go deeper
Related to this question
Learn chapter
BIOS/UEFI and Firmware Management
Key term
Detection
Detection is the process of identifying potential security incidents or anomalies by analyzing system data, logs, and network traffic.
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).
About these practice questions
One of 185 original SK0-005 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 →
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.