010-160 The Linux Operating System Practice Question
You have added a new hard drive to your Linux server, but the system does not automatically recognize the device. What is the first step you should take to verify if the kernel detects the hardware?
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
✓
Examine the output of dmesg.
The dmesg command displays the kernel ring buffer, which logs hardware detection events during boot or device insertion.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Reinstall the operating system.
Why it's wrong here
Reinstalling is an extreme measure not required for hardware detection.
- ✓
Examine the output of dmesg.
Why this is correct
dmesg shows kernel hardware detection messages.
- ✗
Run the top command.
Why it's wrong here
top displays process activity.
- ✗
Edit the /etc/fstab file.
Why it's wrong here
You cannot mount a device that the kernel hasn't detected.
About these practice questions
One of 190 original 010-160 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 August 2026 · checked against the official LPI exam blueprint
This 010-160 practice question is part of Courseiva's free LPI 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 010-160 exam.