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CCNA server-hardware-installation-management Questions

37 questions · server-hardware-installation-management · All types, answers revealed

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1
MCQmedium

A systems administrator is configuring a new server that will host a mission-critical database. The server has two redundant power supplies. The organization's data center has two separate power circuits, each backed by a different UPS. Which of the following power configurations provides the BEST redundancy?

A.Connect each power supply to a different power circuit.
B.Connect both power supplies to a single, high-capacity UPS.
C.Use a single power supply and keep the second as a cold spare.
D.Connect both power supplies to the same circuit to balance load.
AnswerA

This is the best practice for power redundancy. It ensures that the server remains powered even if one entire circuit or UPS fails.

Why this answer

Connecting each power supply to a different power circuit ensures that if one circuit or UPS fails, the server continues to receive power from the other source. Option B is correct because it eliminates single points of failure in the power path. Option A is incorrect because connecting both to the same circuit creates a single point of failure; a circuit trip would take down the server.

Option C is incorrect because using a single live PSU with a cold spare does not provide automatic failover and would cause downtime if the active PSU fails. Option D is incorrect because a single high-capacity UPS is still a single point of failure, and does not protect against UPS failure or circuit issues.

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2
MCQhard

A server has been intermittently crashing, and the system logs repeatedly show 'Machine Check Exception (MCE) errors' referencing a specific CPU core. The server is under warranty. The technician suspects a hardware fault. Which of the following actions should be taken FIRST to resolve the issue while minimizing downtime?

A.Update the server's firmware and device drivers to the latest versions.
B.Run a diagnostic stress test to confirm the CPU failure.
C.Disable the faulty CPU core in the BIOS and continue monitoring.
D.Replace the CPU with a known-good unit immediately.
AnswerB

Confirming the fault with diagnostics is the proper first step under warranty. It provides evidence for the manufacturer, ensures correct part replacement, and avoids unnecessary downtime from trial-and-error swapping.

Why this answer

Machine Check Exceptions are serious hardware errors often indicating a failing CPU or system board. Before replacing components under warranty, it is best practice to run diagnostics to confirm the failure and gather evidence for the vendor. Option D is correct because diagnosing the failure first avoids unnecessary parts replacement and provides documentation for warranty service.

Option A is incorrect because disabling the core might temporarily mask the issue but does not resolve the root cause and could degrade performance. Option B is incorrect because replacing the CPU without confirming the fault could waste time and resources if the issue lies elsewhere (e.g., motherboard). Option C is incorrect because firmware and driver updates are unlikely to fix a confirmed hardware MCE, and applying them would delay actual repair.

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3
MCQhard

A server has four 1 Gbps network interface cards (NICs) configured in a Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) team with a managed switch. The switch ports are confirmed to be correctly configured for LACP. However, during a file transfer test, the observed aggregate throughput is only about 2 Gbps. Which of the following should the administrator verify FIRST?

A.Update the NIC drivers to the latest version
B.Examine the load-balancing algorithm on the server or switch
C.Verify the MTU settings on the NICs and switch
D.Check for Spanning Tree Protocol blockages
AnswerB

The hashing algorithm determines how traffic is distributed. An inappropriate algorithm can cause all traffic to use only a subset of links, resulting in less than the full aggregate bandwidth.

Why this answer

Option B is correct because LACP uses a load-balancing algorithm (hashing) to distribute traffic across member links. The default hash policy (e.g., Layer 2 based) may not utilize all links effectively for certain traffic patterns. Checking and adjusting the load-balancing algorithm (e.g., to Layer 2+3 or Layer 3+4) often resolves uneven distribution.

Option A (drivers) could affect teaming but less likely if the team is formed. Option C (MTU) issues would typically cause fragmentation or performance problems, not simply limiting aggregate throughput. Option D (Spanning Tree) would block ports, not limit throughput.

Option E (flow control) could affect performance but is not the most common cause of suboptimal LACP throughput.

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4
PBQeasy

A technician receives an urgent alert that a critical file server at a remote branch office has gone offline and is unreachable over the network. The server is accessible via out-of-band IPMI, which indicates that chassis power is present, but the power LED on the server is blinking amber instead of steady green. The IPMI system event log reports "System board voltage regulator failure" as the last critical event before the failure. Attempts to use the remote KVM show no video output, and Wake-on-LAN commands have no effect. The branch office has no on-site IT personnel; the only staff are general office workers with minimal technical training. The earliest a field technician can travel to the site is 48 hours. The main office has an identically configured spare server and a backup image of the file server's system disk. The branch office staff can follow simple plug-and-play instructions if provided. Which of the following is the BEST immediate course of action to restore the file services with minimal downtime?

A.Order a replacement system board and express ship it to the branch for a technician to install later.
B.Ship the spare server and a pre-configured backup image to the branch office for local staff to swap.
C.Instruct a non-technical employee at the branch to reseat the power supply and clear the error log.
D.Dispatch a technician with a replacement voltage regulator module for on-site repair.
AnswerB

Why this answer

Given the voltage regulator failure on the system board, the server is not repairable remotely. Shipping the pre-configured spare server allows non-technical staff to swap the entire unit by following simple cabling instructions, restoring service quickly without waiting for a technician. Option A is correct because it minimizes downtime by leveraging available resources.

Option B is incorrect because voltage regulator modules are rarely field-replaceable; they are integrated into the motherboard, and dispatching a technician would take 48 hours plus repair time. Option C is incorrect because reseating the power supply is unlikely to fix a system board voltage regulator fault, and could cause further confusion for untrained staff. Option D is incorrect because ordering a replacement board and waiting for a technician to install it would take even longer, extending downtime unnecessarily.

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5
MCQeasy

Refer to the exhibit. A server in a well-maintained data center has triggered upper critical and non-recoverable temperature alerts for CPU1. The server's chassis fans are operating at full speed, and the data center ambient temperature is normal. Which of the following is the FIRST action the administrator should take?

A.Open the chassis and verify that the CPU air baffle/duct is in place.
B.Check for failure of the liquid cooling system for CPU1.
C.Replace CPU1 because the high temperature indicates an internal short.
D.Install additional high-speed fans to increase static pressure.
AnswerA

Air baffles direct airflow over the CPU heatsinks; if missing or displaced during a previous service, the CPU can overheat even with fans at full speed.

Why this answer

Correct: Missing or improperly installed air baffles/ducts are a common cause of CPU overheating, especially after maintenance. Option A is wrong because if other components are fine, a liquid cooling failure is less likely and more invasive. Option C is wrong because adding extra fans doesn't address the root cause if airflow path is broken.

Option D is wrong because a failed CPU almost never causes overheating; a failing CPU usually causes crashes, not thermal runaway.

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6
MCQhard

A server has been experiencing random crashes and generating memory-related errors in the system event log. The technician has already run memory diagnostics which show frequent errors on a single DIMM. The server has four DIMMs installed. Which of the following is the BEST next step?

A.Update the BIOS firmware
B.Replace all four DIMMs to prevent future issues
C.Replace the failing DIMM with a known good, matching module
D.Reseat all DIMMs and re-run diagnostics
AnswerC

Targeted replacement of the defective component is the most efficient and appropriate resolution after diagnostic confirmation.

Why this answer

With diagnostics confirming errors on a specific DIMM, the best action is to replace that faulty module. Reseating may not fix a physical failure. Updating BIOS or replacing all DIMMs is unnecessary and could be wasteful.

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7
MCQhard

Several users report sluggish performance from a database server. The server administrator notices that the CPU fans are running at maximum speed and the baseboard management controller (BMC) reports CPU temperatures of 85°C even at idle. The administrator already cleaned dust from the chassis and verified all fans are operational. Which of the following should the administrator do NEXT?

A.Add additional case fans to improve airflow.
B.Replace the CPU fans with higher RPM models.
C.Reapply thermal paste on the CPU heat sinks.
D.Increase the fan speed thresholds in the BIOS.
AnswerC

Thermal paste degrades over time. Reapplying it is the standard next step after basic airflow issues have been ruled out.

Why this answer

High temperatures persist after cleaning and fan checks suggest poor heat conduction between the CPU and heatsink, typically caused by dried or inadequate thermal paste.

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8
PBQmedium

A server administrator receives reports that a production server is shutting down unexpectedly after running for several hours. The server is a 2U rackmount unit located in a data center with proper ambient cooling (20°C/68°F). The server has redundant power supplies connected to separate PDUs and no power anomalies are reported. The administrator checks the operating system event logs and finds a critical log entry: 'The system was shut down due to a thermal event.' However, the CPU temperature logs show that the CPU was at 47°C at the time of shutdown, and the chassis inlet temperature was 23°C. The server's internal fans are running at high speed and are clearly audible. The administrator suspects a thermal issue but is unsure why the CPU is not showing high temperature. The server has a baseboard management controller (BMC) that monitors various sensors. Which of the following components should the administrator investigate FIRST to identify the likely cause of the shutdown?

A.Swap the redundant power supplies to rule out a failing PSU.
B.Inspect the voltage regulator module (VRM) temperatures and airflow around the motherboard.
C.Replace the CPU heatsink and reapply thermal paste.
D.Update the server firmware and BIOS to the latest version.
AnswerB

Why this answer

Option B is correct because voltage regulator modules (VRMs) can overheat and trigger a thermal shutdown via the BMC even when the CPU temperature is within normal limits. VRMs are often located in areas with restricted airflow and are critical to CPU power delivery. Option A is incorrect because CPU temperature is normal, so the heatsink is likely functioning.

Option C is incorrect because power supply faults would not generate a thermal event. Option D is a possible long-term fix for a firmware bug, but physical inspection of temperature-sensitive components should come first.

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9
MCQmedium

A server with a RAID 5 array of four disks reports a degraded logical drive. The technician replaces the failed disk and rebuilds the array. After the rebuild completes, the array is still degraded. Which of the following is the most likely cause?

A.The replacement disk is assigned a different drive letter in the OS
B.The RAID controller firmware is outdated
C.The replacement disk has a different rotational speed than the other disks
D.The replacement disk is missing a partition table
AnswerC

Many RAID controllers require all drives in an array to have matching specifications; a speed mismatch can cause the rebuild to fail or the drive to be rejected.

Why this answer

Option B is correct because if the replacement disk is of a different speed (e.g., 10k vs 15k), the RAID controller may not accept it or the rebuild may fail, leaving the array degraded. Option A is wrong because missing a partition would not cause the array to remain degraded after rebuild; the array is at a lower level. Option C is wrong because if the firmware were outdated, the controller would likely not recognize the drive at all.

Option D is wrong because the disk name in Windows would not affect the RAID status.

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10
MCQmedium

Refer to the exhibit. During boot, the server displays this error and shuts down. Which of the following is the most likely cause?

A.The CPU heatsink is not properly installed.
B.The CPU fan is not connected to the CPU_FAN header.
C.The BIOS fan profile is set to 'Silent' mode.
D.The CPU has failed.
AnswerB

The error message 'No fan detected' strongly indicates a physical disconnection. The system halts to prevent thermal damage.

Why this answer

The log explicitly states 'No fan detected', which directly points to a missing connection on the CPU_FAN header. The shutdown is a protective response.

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11
MCQhard

A server configured with dual redundant power supplies unexpectedly shuts down when one power supply fails. Both power supplies are rated for the server's total load and were functioning before the failure. What is the MOST likely reason for the shutdown?

A.The power supplies were not hot‑swappable
B.The failed power supply had a higher wattage rating than the remaining one
C.The power supplies were from different manufacturers
D.Redundant mode was not configured in the server management settings
AnswerD

Many servers require explicit configuration to operate in true N+1 redundancy; otherwise the loss of one PSU can cause an overcurrent event.

Why this answer

If redundant mode is not enabled (Option B), the power supplies may operate in combined/load‑sharing mode, and failure of one can overload the other. Hot‑swap capability (A) allows replacement without shutdown but does not prevent an outage if the remaining PSU cannot handle the load. Wattage mismatch (C) is unlikely if both were working, and different vendors (D) do not normally cause shutdown if the PSUs are compatible.

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12
PBQhard

A small business relies on a tower server that acts as a file and print server for 15 employees. The server has a single Intel Xeon E-2300 series processor, four 16GB DDR4 ECC RDIMMs installed in dual-channel configuration, and two 2TB 7200 RPM SATA hard drives in a hardware RAID 1 mirror. The power supply unit (PSU) is a 500W 80+ Bronze unit that is about four years old. Recently, the server has started experiencing random, intermittent crashes resulting in a blue screen, typically during periods of heavy disk I/O, such as when multiple users access large files. Event Viewer logs show occasional corrected memory errors (ECC events) but no uncorrected errors. The administrator runs MemTest86+ on all four DIMMs for multiple passes, and no errors are detected. The server room ambient temperature is normal, and all fans are operating. The crashes are becoming more frequent. Which of the following actions would MOST likely resolve the underlying issue?

A.Reseat all memory modules and clean the DIMM slots
B.Replace the hard drives with solid-state drives (SSDs)
C.Replace the motherboard, as the memory controller is likely failing
D.Upgrade the power supply to a higher wattage, 80+ Gold unit
AnswerD

Why this answer

Option B is correct. Intermittent crashes under heavy load, combined with ECC corrected errors but passing memory tests, can indicate a power supply that is failing or inadequate under peak load. A 500W PSU may be marginal, especially with aging capacitors, causing voltage drops that lead to memory and system instability.

Option A: Replacing the motherboard is premature, as no clear evidence points to a faulty memory controller. Option C: Reseating RAM may help if a connection issue, but given MemTest passes and errors are corrected, physical seating is less likely. Option D: Replacing HDDs with SSDs would reduce I/O load but does not address the likely power instability causing memory errors and crashes.

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13
MCQhard

A technician is replacing a failed hard drive in a hot-swap RAID 5 array. After inserting the new drive, the RAID controller does not automatically rebuild. What should the technician do first?

A.Check the SAS cable connection
B.Reboot the server
C.Replace the drive with a different model
D.Manually initiate a rebuild from the RAID controller utility
AnswerD

Correct. Most controllers require the administrator to manually start the rebuild after replacing a failed drive.

Why this answer

Many RAID controllers require manual initiation of the rebuild process. Rebooting may not trigger it. Replacing with a different model is unnecessary.

Checking cabling is less likely since the drive is detected. The technician should use the controller utility to start the rebuild.

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14
MCQeasy

A technician is installing a new 2U server into a datacenter rack. The server is equipped with redundant power supplies. According to best practices for power redundancy, how should the technician connect the power supplies?

A.Connect one PSU to a UPS and the other directly to mains
B.Run one PSU at 110V and the other at 220V for load balancing
C.Connect each PSU to a separate circuit
D.Connect both PSUs to the same power distribution unit (PDU)
AnswerC

Best practice is to connect redundant PSUs to independent power sources (separate PDUs on different circuit breakers) to eliminate single points of failure.

Why this answer

Option B is correct because connecting each power supply to a separate circuit (or separate PDUs fed by different circuits) ensures that if one circuit fails, the other keeps the server powered. Option A is wrong because connecting both to the same PDU creates a single point of failure. Option C is wrong because while a UPS is important, connecting only one PSU to a UPS defeats redundancy if the non-UPS circuit fails.

Option D is wrong because operating voltages are standardized and must match the server specifications.

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15
MCQhard

Refer to the exhibit. A technician reviewing the server's storage array status sees the above output. The server is using a hot spare with a RAID 5 array. What should the technician do NEXT?

A.Run a full backup and then replace the drive
B.Rebuild the array to include the hot spare
C.Continue monitoring; the drive is still functional
D.Immediately replace the drive in slot 1I:1:3 to prevent data loss
AnswerD

Proactive replacement avoids the risk of drive failure and the array operating in a degraded state.

Why this answer

A predictive failure warning means the drive is likely to fail soon. Immediate replacement prevents array degradation and possible data loss. The hot spare is activated only on actual failure; rebuilding the array to include the hot spare is not possible manually for predictive failures.

Backing up is prudent but not the most urgent next step.

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16
MCQhard

A server has been randomly rebooting several times a day with no pattern. The administrator reviews the IPMI System Event Log and finds multiple 'Correctable ECC error' entries for DIMM slot B2. The server memory is configured with 16 DIMMs of the same type and manufacturer, all recently installed. What should the administrator do FIRST to resolve this issue?

A.Disable ECC in the firmware to prevent the module from reporting errors.
B.Reseat the DIMM in slot B2 and run a memory diagnostic test.
C.Increase the DRAM voltage slightly in the BIOS/UEFI to improve stability.
D.Replace the DIMM in slot B2 with an identical spare.
AnswerD

Correctable ECC errors point to a physical memory fault; proactive replacement prevents uncorrectable errors and downtime.

Why this answer

Correctable ECC errors indicate a failing or marginal memory module. The first step is to replace the DIMM showing errors. Option A is wrong because reseating does not guarantee the errors will stop, and the DIMM is likely faulty.

Option C is wrong because while increasing voltage might help with stability, it is not recommended as a first fix and could void warranty. Option D is wrong because disabling ECC removes error correction but does not fix the underlying hardware fault.

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17
MCQmedium

A technician installs additional RAM in a server. After powering on, the server emits a continuous beep code and does not POST. The server documentation indicates this beep code signifies a memory error. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A.The total RAM exceeds the server's maximum supported capacity.
B.The new RAM is not fully seated in the memory slot.
C.The new RAM is ECC and the existing RAM is non-ECC.
D.The server BIOS needs to be updated to support the new RAM type.
AnswerB

A loose connection is the most frequent cause of memory errors after installation. Reseating the module usually resolves the issue immediately.

Why this answer

Memory errors after installation commonly result from improper seating. A beep code indicating memory detection failure points to a physical connection issue.

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18
MCQeasy

Refer to the exhibit. A server technician sees the following output. What is the current status of the RAID array?

A.Rebuilding
B.Degraded
C.Healthy
D.Failed
AnswerB

'State : clean, degraded' and a 'removed' device confirm the array is running in a degraded mode without full redundancy.

Why this answer

The 'State' line clearly indicates 'clean, degraded', and one device is marked as 'removed'. The array is operational but missing a drive.

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19
Multi-Selecthard

A server administrator needs to set up out-of-band management for a new server. Which THREE of the following are essential for successful configuration and remote access? (Choose three.)

Select 3 answers
A.A DHCP server configured to provide an IP to the management interface.
B.A dedicated management network interface (e.g., iDRAC, iLO dedicated port).
C.A Baseboard Management Controller (BMC) with proper firmware.
D.An installed operating system on the server.
E.A web browser or SSH client to access the management console.
AnswersB, C, E

A dedicated port physically separates management traffic from production data, which is fundamental to true out-of-band operation.

Why this answer

Out-of-band management relies on a dedicated hardware controller (BMC), a separate network interface for remote access, and a client-side tool to interact with it.

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20
MCQeasy

A server technician replaces a failed RAM module with an identical spare. After installation, the server powers on but emits continuous short beeps and does not complete POST. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause?

A.The new RAM module is incompatible with the motherboard.
B.The RAM module is not fully seated in the slot.
C.The CPU has been damaged during the installation.
D.The power supply is providing insufficient voltage.
AnswerB

Continuous short beeps are a classic symptom of a memory issue, and reseating the module is the first troubleshooting step. Even identical modules can be improperly installed.

Why this answer

Continuous short beeps typically indicate a memory error, and the most common cause after a RAM replacement is that the module is not fully seated. Even though the module is known good and compatible, improper installation can prevent POST. Option C is correct because reseating the module will often resolve the issue.

Option A is incorrect because an incompatible module would likely produce a different beep code or no POST at all, but the module is identical and known good. Option B is incorrect because insufficient power would likely prevent the server from powering on at all, not cause RAM beep codes. Option D is incorrect because CPU damage is unlikely from a simple RAM swap and would produce different symptoms.

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21
MCQeasy

A server technician is mounting a 4U server in a standard 19-inch rack. Which of the following safety precautions is MOST important before lifting the server into place?

A.Ensure the server's power supply voltage matches the rack's PDU.
B.Install cable management arms before mounting.
C.Confirm that the rack's weight capacity can support the server.
D.Verify that the rack is properly grounded.
AnswerC

Exceeding weight limits can cause the rack to become unstable or collapse, posing a direct physical danger to the technician and nearby equipment.

Why this answer

Ensuring the rack can support the server's weight is critical to prevent the rack from tipping or collapsing, which could cause serious injury or equipment damage.

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22
MCQmedium

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?

A.The DIMMs are not installed in the correct slots
B.One of the DIMMs is faulty
C.The DIMMs do not support ECC
D.The DIMMs are not registered (RDIMM)
AnswerA

Quad-channel mode requires DIMMs to be installed in specific slots according to the motherboard manual. Incorrect slot population results in lower channel modes.

Why this answer

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.

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23
PBQeasy

A small business has purchased a new server to function as a file server for 25 employees. The server is equipped with four 1TB SATA hard disk drives and no hardware RAID controller; the operating system supports software RAID. The business owner's primary requirements are data redundancy to protect against a single drive failure and maximum usable storage capacity, while keeping costs low. The IT technician is tasked with configuring the storage. The technician evaluates the following options: RAID 0 striping across all four drives; RAID 1 mirroring using two pairs (drives 1+2 mirrored, drives 3+4 mirrored), providing two separate volumes; RAID 5 with parity across all four drives; and RAID 10 combining mirroring and striping. The technician needs to recommend the configuration that best meets the requirements. Which of the following should the technician implement?

A.Configure RAID 10 by mirroring two pairs and striping across them, providing 2TB of storage with high performance and redundancy.
B.Configure RAID 5 to stripe data and parity across all four drives, providing 3TB of usable storage with single-drive fault tolerance.
C.Configure RAID 0 to stripe across all four drives for maximum 4TB storage and performance.
D.Configure RAID 1 with two mirrored pairs, providing 2TB of total storage across two volumes, ensuring redundancy.
AnswerB

Why this answer

Option C is correct because RAID 5 provides single-drive fault tolerance and maximizes usable capacity (3TB out of 4TB), offering the best balance between redundancy and storage space. Option A provides no redundancy. Option B uses mirroring, which wastes half the total capacity (only 2TB usable).

Option D also provides only 2TB and adds performance benefits that are not the primary requirement, while costing more in usable space.

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24
MCQeasy

A technician is monitoring a server with a RAID 5 array that has a hot spare. One of the drives fails. Which of the following actions will occur automatically in this configuration?

A.The server will shut down to protect data
B.The array will continue to operate in degraded mode until manual intervention
C.The data will be mirrored to another server
D.The hot spare will be activated and the array will start rebuilding
AnswerD

This is the standard behavior of a hot spare—automatic replacement and rebuild to restore redundancy.

Why this answer

When a hot spare is present, the RAID controller automatically activates the spare and begins rebuilding the array without operator intervention. Degraded operation without a hot spare requires manual replacement. Shutdown and mirroring are not typical behaviors.

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25
MCQmedium

A server fails to power on after a technician replaced the power supply unit (PSU). The technician notices the server's LEDs are off and no fans are spinning. Which of the following should the technician do FIRST?

A.Replace the PSU with another new unit
B.Replace the motherboard
C.Verify the incoming power is within acceptable voltage range
D.Check that the new PSU is properly seated and all power cables are connected
AnswerD

After a PSU replacement, improper seating or disconnected cables are common. This low-effort check addresses the most probable cause.

Why this answer

The FIRST step is to check that the new PSU is properly seated and all power cables are connected, as this is the most likely cause after a replacement. Replacing the motherboard or PSU again is premature without verifying connections. Checking incoming power is a possibility but less likely if the server was working before.

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26
PBQmedium

A small business plans to deploy a new on-premises server for a virtualization environment. The server will run a hypervisor hosting four virtual machines: a domain controller, a file server, a web application server, and an SQL database server. The business expects moderate workloads and needs to ensure reliable performance and data protection. The procurement department has proposed the following server configuration: single Intel Xeon E-2300 series CPU (4 cores, 8 threads), 16 GB DDR4 ECC RAM, two 1 TB SATA hard drives configured in RAID 1, a single 1 GbE network interface, and a 500W power supply. The IT manager reviews the proposal and identifies several deficiencies that will not meet the expected workload requirements. Which of the following changes to the server configuration is the MOST important to address first to ensure the VMs can run effectively?

A.Increase the RAM to at least 32 GB to support the four VMs.
B.Replace the SATA hard drives with SSDs and configure RAID 10 for better I/O performance.
C.Add a second 1 GbE network interface and configure NIC teaming for redundancy.
D.Upgrade the CPU to a model with at least 8 cores and 16 threads.
AnswerA

Why this answer

In virtualization, RAM is typically the first resource to become a bottleneck because each VM requires its own memory allocation. 16 GB is insufficient for four VMs, especially with an SQL database server, which often demands a large memory footprint. Option C is correct because increasing RAM to at least 32 GB allows the hypervisor to allocate adequate memory to each VM, preventing excessive swapping and performance degradation. Option A is incorrect because the proposed CPU (4c/8t) can handle moderate workloads if RAM is sufficient; more cores are secondary.

Option B is incorrect because while SSDs and RAID 10 would improve disk I/O, the immediate showstopper is insufficient RAM, which would cause VMs to fail or thrash regardless of storage speed. Option D is incorrect because a single 1 GbE link might be adequate initially, and NIC teaming addresses redundancy, not the fundamental resource deficit.

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27
PBQhard

A company has a virtualized server environment with two physical hosts running VMware vSphere. Each host has 2 CPUs, 128GB RAM, and 6x 600GB SAS drives in RAID 10. Recently, host A experienced a power surge that caused it to shut down abruptly. After restarting, the host boots but the RAID controller reports that one of the drives in the RAID 10 array is missing. The administrator has a replacement drive of the same model. What should the administrator do first?

A.Use the RAID controller utility to set the new drive as a hot spare and then reboot
B.Replace the missing drive with the new one and allow the RAID controller to automatically rebuild
C.Check the RAID controller logs to determine if the drive is faulty or if it's a connection issue, and then reseat the drive or replace cables before replacing
D.Rebuild the entire RAID array after backing up data from the surviving drives
AnswerC

Why this answer

The most appropriate first step is to troubleshoot the connection. The drive might be loose or the cable damaged due to the surge. Option C is correct because reseating or checking cables is non-invasive and could resolve the issue without replacing a working drive.

Option A is incorrect because replacing immediately might be unnecessary if the drive is fine. Option B is incorrect because setting as hot spare won't help if the drive is not detected. Option D is incorrect because rebuilding the entire array is drastic and risks data loss.

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28
PBQmedium

You are a server administrator at a mid-sized company that hosts its own on-premises Exchange server and file server. The infrastructure consists of three racks: Rack A contains the core switches and firewalls, Rack B contains the Exchange server (Dell PowerEdge R740) and the file server (HP ProLiant DL380 Gen10), and Rack C contains backup devices and a tape library. The data center cooling is provided by a raised-floor system with perforated tiles. Recently, the file server has been experiencing random shutdowns during peak usage hours (10 AM to 2 PM). The shutdowns are preceded by system event log warnings indicating that the CPU temperature has exceeded the threshold. The ambient temperature around the rack is 20°C (68°F) as measured by a handheld thermometer. Other servers in Rack B do not exhibit this behavior. The file server is a 2U server with two Xeon processors, 128 GB RAM, and six hot-swap SATA drives. It runs Windows Server 2019. The server has been in service for three years with no prior issues. The data center manager has noted that the perforated tiles are clear of obstructions. You have verified that the fans in the file server are spinning and the internal air filters are clean. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of the overheating issue?

A.The ambient temperature sensor in the data center is reporting incorrectly and the actual temperature is higher.
B.The internal fans are not operating at full speed due to a failed fan controller.
C.The file server's power supply is failing and causing voltage drops that affect fan performance.
D.The perforated tile under the file server has insufficient airflow due to cable blockage below the raised floor.
AnswerD

Why this answer

Option B is correct because the file server's shutdowns occur during peak hours when cooling load is highest. If the server is located in a spot with inadequate underfloor airflow (e.g., a tile blocked by cables or a misaligned tile), it will not receive enough cool air, leading to CPU overheating despite the ambient reading. Option A is incorrect because the fans are verified to be spinning and filters clean.

Option C is unlikely because the ambient is normal and other servers are fine. Option D is possible but not as specific to peak hours; a failing PSU usually causes power loss, not CPU thermal events.

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29
MCQmedium

A server displays a 'CMOS battery low' error during POST. After the technician replaces the CR2032 battery with a new one, the server still loses date and time settings when disconnected from power. Which of the following should the technician try NEXT?

A.Check the power supply for voltage fluctuations
B.Update the BIOS firmware
C.Replace the motherboard
D.Verify the new battery is functional and properly seated
AnswerD

A 'dead on arrival' battery or poor contact is a common cause. Checking with a multimeter or trying another new battery is the logical next step.

Why this answer

Option A is correct because it is possible the new battery is defective, installed incorrectly, or not making proper contact. The first step is to verify the battery itself and its installation. Option B is wrong because a faulty motherboard is possible, but troubleshooting should start with the simplest and most likely cause.

Option C is wrong because power supply fluctuations are unlikely to cause CMOS settings loss specifically when unplugged. Option D is wrong because the BIOS chip retaining settings is part of the CMOS circuit, but the immediate issue is likely the power source (battery) for the CMOS.

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30
MCQmedium

After a brief power outage, a server does not power on when the power button is pressed. The power supply LED indicator is green, but the internal fans do not spin and there is no video output. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate troubleshooting step?

A.Test the system with a known-good CPU.
B.Reset the server's configuration via the CMOS jumper.
C.Check that the 24-pin ATX power connector is securely connected to the motherboard.
D.Replace the power supply.
AnswerC

Power surges can loosen connectors. Reseating the main power connector is a quick, non-invasive step that often resolves such failures.

Why this answer

A green LED indicates standby power is present. If the system does not fully power on, the primary power delivery from the PSU to the motherboard may be disrupted, often by a loose connector.

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31
MCQhard

Refer to the exhibit. A server administrator runs a dmidecode command to check memory configuration and obtains the output shown. The system supports DDR4-2666, but all DIMMs are running at 1866 MT/s. Which action will allow the memory to run at the maximum supported speed?

A.Enable XMP profile in the BIOS to force all DIMMs to 2666 MT/s.
B.Replace the DIMM in slot A1 with a DDR4-2666 registered module.
C.Clear the CMOS to reset the memory training data.
D.Move the DIMM from A1 to A2 and the DIMM from A2 to A1.
AnswerB

All memory runs at the speed of the slowest module. Replacing the 2133 MT/s DIMM removes the bottleneck.

Why this answer

Correct: The slower 2133 MT/s DIMM in slot A1 limits all modules to its speed. Replacing it with a 2666 MT/s module allows the system to run at the highest common denominator. Option A is wrong because reordering slots won't change the speed limitation.

Option C is wrong because XMP is for overclocking desktop memory, not typical on registered server DIMMs. Option D is wrong because clearing CMOS only resets BIOS settings, not memory speed mismatch.

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32
MCQeasy

A server logged the warning shown in the exhibit. Which of the following should the technician check first?

A.The power supply voltage to the processor
B.The processor cooling fan
C.The ambient temperature of the data center
D.The thermal paste between the heatsink and processor
AnswerB

A failed or obstructed cooling fan is the most common cause of high CPU temperature warnings.

Why this answer

Option C is correct because the warning indicates high processor temperature, which is often caused by a failed or inadequate cooling fan for the CPU. Option A is wrong because the thermal paste would not cause a sudden temperature change; it's a more gradual issue. Option B is wrong while power supply issues can cause overheating, the more direct cause is the CPU fan.

Option D is wrong because ambient temperature might be a factor but checking the CPU fan is a more immediate and likely cause.

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33
PBQhard

A company is expanding its data center to support a new four-node database cluster for a critical application requiring 99.999% uptime, meaning only minutes of downtime per year. Each server node has dual 1000W power supplies. The facility provides two independent power feeds from separate utility substations, each backed by its own online double-conversion UPS. There are four 20A/208V PDUs available, two per power feed. The design must ensure that the loss of any single power feed, any single UPS, or any single PDU does not cause any server to lose power or impact the cluster's availability. The servers are located in a single rack, and cabling must follow best practices for manageability and airflow. The IT architect is evaluating different power distribution strategies to meet these fault-tolerance requirements. Which of the following configurations achieves full redundancy with no single point of failure in the power path?

A.Connect each server's power supplies to two PDUs that are both on the same power feed, and use the second feed only as a cold standby in case of a primary feed failure.
B.Connect the first power supply of each server to a PDU on power feed A and the second power supply to a PDU on power feed B.
C.Connect each server's power supplies to the same PDU, but distribute servers across the four PDUs for load balancing.
D.Use a single large PDU with dual inputs from both feeds and an automatic transfer switch, connecting all servers to that PDU.
AnswerB

Why this answer

Option D is correct because connecting each server's power supplies to two different PDUs that are on separate power feeds guarantees that if one feed, UPS, or PDU fails, the server continues to receive power from the remaining source. Option A does not protect against PDU failure. Option B exposes servers to a power feed failure.

Option C introduces a single PDU as a single point of failure.

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34
PBQmedium

A server administrator is assembling a new high-performance server using a Supermicro X12 motherboard, two Intel Xeon Gold 5317 processors (LGA 4189 socket), and 16x 32GB DDR4-3200 ECC LRDIMMs for a total of 512GB of memory. The chassis has redundant 1600W power supplies. After assembling all components, the administrator powers on the server. All fans start spinning at full speed, and the front panel LEDs illuminate. However, the server does not POST, there are no beep codes, and no video output is displayed. The motherboard has a two-digit hexadecimal POST code LED display, which shows '00' and does not change. The motherboard manual states that code '00' indicates the CPU is not detected or has failed. The processors are confirmed to be the correct socket type and stepping as required by the motherboard. What should the technician do FIRST?

A.Reseat both processors and inspect the CPU sockets for bent pins
B.Replace both processors as they are likely faulty
C.Clear the CMOS using the jumper or button on the motherboard
D.Update the BIOS to the latest version using the IPMI interface
AnswerA

Why this answer

Option B is correct. The POST code '00' typically indicates a CPU initialization failure. The first and least invasive step is to reseat the processors, checking for bent socket pins, debris, or improper mounting.

This resolves a majority of such issues. Option A (replace both CPUs) is extreme and should only be done after ruling out physical installation issues. Option C (clear CMOS) may help if the BIOS was misconfigured for a previous CPU, but physical reseating is more direct.

Option D (update BIOS) is not possible if the system cannot POST to enter the update utility; furthermore, if the CPUs are supported by the current BIOS version, updating is unnecessary.

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35
MCQmedium

A technician is installing a new 2U server into an existing rack. The rack is fully populated with servers that use front-to-back airflow. The new server also uses front-to-back cooling. The technician notices gaps between some servers and several open rack units without equipment. To ensure optimal airflow and prevent potential thermal issues, which of the following actions should the technician take FIRST?

A.Install additional exhaust fans at the rear of the rack to pull hot air out.
B.Increase the fan speed of the new server to compensate for recirculated air.
C.Leave the gaps to allow passive air movement and reduce pressure.
D.Install blanking panels in all unused rack spaces.
AnswerD

Blanking panels are an industry best practice for preventing air recirculation in racks, directly addressing the issue of open spaces disrupting the designed airflow path.

Why this answer

Option A is correct because installing blanking panels in unused rack spaces prevents hot air from recirculating to server intakes, maintaining proper cooling airflow. Option B is wrong because increasing fan speed only treats the symptom and wastes energy without solving recirculation. Option C is wrong because leaving gaps disrupts the designed front-to-back airflow, allowing hot air to mix with cold intake air.

Option D is wrong because adding exhaust fans may interfere with the existing airflow pattern and does not directly address recirculation caused by gaps.

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36
MCQeasy

A technician is installing a new server in a data center. To prevent electrostatic discharge (ESD) damage, which of the following should the technician do FIRST?

A.Place an anti-static mat on the floor
B.Spray anti-static solution on the server rack
C.Wear rubber-soled shoes
D.Attach an ESD wrist strap to a grounded surface
AnswerD

An ESD wrist strap connected to a grounded surface provides a safe path for static discharge, protecting sensitive components.

Why this answer

Option C is correct because using an ESD wrist strap connected to a grounded surface is the primary method to prevent ESD damage. Option A is wrong because wearing rubber-soled shoes alone does not provide a path to ground. Option B is wrong because an anti-static mat must be used with a ground connection.

Option D is wrong because spraying anti-static spray on the floor is not a standard ESD prevention method and may create a slip hazard.

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37
MCQmedium

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?

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
AnswerD

Correct. Matching capacity and speed on both channels enables dual-channel mode, maximizing bandwidth and increasing capacity to 32 GB.

Why this answer

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.

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