An open-source license allows users to access, modify, and redistribute the software’s source code. It supports user customization and community contributions.

“Open-source software provides access to the source code, allowing users to inspect, modify, and enhance the software.” — CompTIA ITF+ Licensing and Software Concepts

Correct answer: C

Interference or poor signal strength is a common issue in Wi-Fi networks, especially in distant or obstructed locations like basements.

“Physical obstructions and electronic interference can weaken wireless signals, leading to connectivity issues in areas like basements.” — CompTIA ITF+ Networking Fundamentals

Correct answer: A

Task management utilities like Task Manager in Windows are used to monitor and manage running applications and processes, including ending unresponsive ones.

“Task Manager is used to view and end processes or applications that are not responding.” — CompTIA ITF+

Correct answer: B

The CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide explains:

“Firewalls filter network traffic. Firewalls filter inbound and outbound network traffic based on rules defined by the administrator. That list of rules is called an access control list (ACL). By default, most firewalls are configured as default deny, which means that all traffic is blocked unless specifically authorized by the administrator.”

Therefore, a firewall is the network security device that primarily permits and restricts traffic based on predefined rules.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 5: Software Applications — “Software Firewalls” (pp. 316–317).

Chapter 8: Networking Concepts and Technologies — “Firewalls” (pp. 447–448).

A cable lock (also called a Kensington lock) physically secures the laptop to a fixed object, making it difficult to steal in public spaces.

“Cable locks are physical security devices used to deter laptop theft by anchoring the device to a desk or other stationary object.” — CompTIA ITF+ Official Guide

A. Firewall is software-based and protects data, not the device.

B. Privacy shields prevent screen visibility, not theft.

C. USB locks prevent port access but not physical theft.

Correct answer: D

Cloud storage enables multiple users to access and modify data in real-time from different locations. It also ensures high availability by offering redundancy and online access.

“Cloud storage provides high availability, accessibility, and collaboration capabilities, making it ideal for group projects and remote access.” — CompTIA ITF+ Cloud Technologies

Correct answer: A

A primary key is a unique identifier for each record in a database table. It must be unique and not null across all rows. In this table, the field ID is the only column that uniquely identifies each row and does not repeat.

“A primary key is a field (or a set of fields) that uniquely identifies a record in a table. It ensures that each record can be uniquely retrieved.” — CompTIA ITF+ Official Study Guide

Analysis of other options:

Month, Day, Year, and Name can have duplicate values across multiple records and therefore do not serve as unique identifiers.

Correct answer: A

The ID field contains unique values for each record and is typically used as a primary key in a database. A primary key uniquely identifies each row in a table.

Month, Day, Year, and Name may have duplicates and do not guarantee uniqueness.

Line 10 starts with “FOR Q=1 TO 100,” which is a loop construct. It defines a loop that will run 100 times, incrementing Q from 1 to 100 and executing the enclosed lines (20 and 30).

“Loops are programming constructs that repeat a set of instructions until a condition is met. A ‘FOR’ loop is a common control structure in procedural programming.” — CompTIA ITF+ Official Objectives

Other options:

Attribute applies to objects, not control flow.

Sequence is the overall flow of code lines.

Branches involve decision-making (e.g., IF/ELSE), not repetition.

Correct answer: D

A keyboard allows a user to enter data into a system:

“Input devices allow users to provide data or control signals to the computer; keyboards are primary examples.”

Storage saves data, output displays data, and processing handles data operations.

Data monetization refers to generating revenue from data assets, such as selling access or insights from collected user data to third parties.

“Data monetization involves using data to generate economic value — for example, selling user data to vendors or advertisers.” — CompTIA ITF+ Data Concepts

Correct answer: A

In terms of storage measurement hierarchy:

1TB = 1,000GB

1GB = 1,000MB

1MB = 1,000KB

Therefore:

20TB = 20,000GB

2,000GB = 2,000GB

200MB = 0.2GB

2,000KB = 0.002GB

Thus, 20TB is the largest. The CompTIA ITF+ FC0-U71 Official Study Guide defines storage units in this way under data representation topics.

A query is a request for information from a database. Structured Query Language (SQL) is commonly used to retrieve specific records or information from a data set.

“A query is used to extract and retrieve specific data from a database based on defined criteria.” — CompTIA ITF+ Data Concepts

Correct answer: D

The syntax shown uses tags like and

, which are characteristic of a markup language, specifically HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Markup languages describe the structure and presentation of text.

“Markup languages, such as HTML and XML, are used to annotate text so that the computer can manipulate it. HTML is used to design the structure of web pages using tags like ,

,

, etc.” — CompTIA ITF+ Official Guide

Other options:

Query languages like SQL retrieve data.

Compiled languages require compilation into machine code (e.g., C++).

Scripting languages are used for automation but don’t use markup syntax.

Correct answer: A

The CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide explains:

“For a table in a database to be relational, it must have a primary key. In fact, its creation is mandatory when a table is created. A primary key is one or more fields whose data is used to identify a record uniquely.”

It further adds:

“Primary keys for tables are stored in an index, which enforces the uniqueness requirement.”

Hence, the unique identifier for records in a relational database is the primary key.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 7: Database Fundamentals — “Primary Key” (pp. 394–395).

According to the CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide (Exam FC0-U71, 3rd Edition, 2025), the SFP (Small Form-Factor Pluggable) connector is directly associated with fiber-optic networking. The guide lists:

“SFP (small form-factor pluggable) connectors are commonly used in fiber-optic connections to allow hot-swappable transceivers for different types of fiber cables.”

Additionally, the same guide’s chapter on Networking Concepts and Technologies explains:

“Fiber-optic around 2 Gbps – Incredibly fast and more expensive than DSL or cable.”

Therefore, fiber Internet is the only service type that uses SFP connectors for data transmission over optical cables.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 8: Networking Concepts and Technologies — “External network connections” and “Common Internet connection types and speeds” (pp. 429–435).

Chapter 2: Peripherals and Connectors — “SFP (small form-factor pluggable) connectors” (pp. 97–98).

Compiled languages (e.g., C, C++, Go) are translated into machine code before execution, making them faster and more efficient at runtime than interpreted or scripting languages.

“Compiled code is translated into machine language before execution, providing faster performance compared to interpreted code.” — CompTIA ITF+ Software Concepts

Correct answer: B

Although a phone number contains only digits, it is best stored as a string because:

It doesn’t require mathematical operations.

It may include formatting symbols like dashes or parentheses.

“Phone numbers are stored as strings because they are identifiers, not values for computation.” — CompTIA ITF+ Data Types

Correct answer: A

The CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide highlights that:

“If no sound is coming from your speakers, even after confirming they’re powered and connected, check your sound settings. The wrong output device may be selected—especially when multiple audio devices are present.”

This describes a misconfigured output—where the OS is sending audio to the wrong device (e.g., Bluetooth or HDMI).

Verified Reference:

Chapter 4: Operating Systems — “Troubleshooting Sound Devices” (pp. 232–233).

The least privilege model is a principle of giving users the minimum level of access needed to perform their roles. Removing unnecessary access aligns with this principle.

“Least privilege limits users to only the resources necessary for their duties, reducing the risk of unauthorized access.” — CompTIA ITF+ Security Essentials

Correct answer: A

Installing software typically requires elevated permissions that standard user accounts do not have. The CompTIA ITF+ FC0-U71 Official Study Guide explains:

“An administrator account provides full system access, including installing or removing software, changing system settings, and managing user accounts.”

The user account does not have these privileges by default.

Least privilege refers to granting only the minimum permissions necessary (which would not typically include software installation for regular users).

Single factor refers to authentication methods, not access levels.

Since the employee is denied installation due to insufficient privileges, administrator access is needed to complete the installation.

According to the CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide (Exam FC0-U71, 3rd Edition, 2025):

“A router is a highly intelligent network connectivity device that can connect multiple network types to each other. Routers use routing tables to store network addresses and route packets based on the best path available.”

It further clarifies:

“Wireless routers are common in homes and offices. Functionally, wireless routers work just like their wired cousins.”

The default gateway in a home network is the router, as it serves as the device that connects the internal local area network (LAN) to the external Internet.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 8: Networking Concepts and Technologies — “Router” section (pp. 446–447).

Figure 8.8 — “A wireless router.”

Meaningful reporting refers to the process of analyzing and summarizing data into actionable insights to support business decisions.

“Reports generated from data analytics provide meaningful insights to support strategic decision-making by company leadership.” — CompTIA ITF+

Correct answer: A

Pop-up blockers prevent new windows or tabs from opening, which can block reports that open in pop-up windows:

“If a web page uses pop-up windows to present information, a pop-up blocker may prevent the new content from loading.”

Cache clearing, accessibility options, or private browsing don’t directly affect hyperlink behavior.

A LAN (Local Area Network) connects devices in a limited geographical area such as a building or office.

“A LAN is a network that connects computers within a small geographical area such as a home, school, or office building.” — CompTIA ITF+ Networking Fundamentals

Correct answer: C

Gaming monitors are often described using refresh rates, which are measured in hertz (Hz), often specified in MHz for related processing frequencies. The CompTIA ITF+ FC0-U71 Official Study Guide states:

"Monitor refresh rate refers to how many times per second the screen updates, usually measured in Hz."

"MHz (megahertz) is used for various frequencies, including GPU and monitor refresh processing."

GPU and RAM refer to hardware components, TB measures storage, and MHz relates to the frequency, applicable for monitor performance metrics.

According to the CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide (Exam FC0-U71, 3rd Edition, 2025), a flowchart is explicitly defined as:

“A flowchart is a visual representation of a program that uses boxes to represent the logic. Flowcharts are critical in the software development process. They should be created before the code is developed, much like blueprints should be drawn before building a house. They help the developers visualize the flow of the program, making it easier to plan out the sections of code needed.”

The guide further elaborates that:

“Flowcharts show the order of operations within a program, including where data input is needed as well as decisions to be made and the logic choices. Different shapes are used to indicate different components. For example, a rectangle is used to indicate a process, whereas a diamond is used to show a decision point.”

This means the graphical depiction of how code executes step by step—including decisions and actions—is known as a flowchart, not pseudocode (which is text-based “fake code” for readability), nor branching or looping (which are logical control structures).

Additionally, in the “Exam Essentials” section of the same guide, it reinforces that:

“Understand what pseudocode and flowcharts are used for. Pseudocode is most often used to annotate the code with comments to make it easier for people to read. Flowcharts help organize the code and plan out a program.”

Verified Reference from CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide, Exam FC0-U71 (3rd Edition, 2025):

Chapter 6: Software Development Concepts — Sections “Flowcharts” and “Exam Essentials” (pages 373–374, 378).

A variable is a named space in memory used to store data that can change during program execution.

“Variables are memory storage locations used to hold data that can change while a program runs.” — CompTIA ITF+ Programming Concepts

Correct answer: A

UESTION NO: 83 [IT Concepts and Terminology]

A systems administrator resolves a persistent issue with a laptop. Which of the following steps should the administrator take next?

A. Test the theory.

B. Document the findings.

C. Create an action plan.

D. Implement the action plan.

Answer: B

After resolving the issue, the final step in the CompTIA troubleshooting methodology is to document the findings. This includes noting what was done, what caused the issue, and how it was resolved, so others can reference it in the future.

“After resolving and verifying the issue, document the findings, actions taken, and outcomes to complete the troubleshooting process.” — CompTIA ITF+ Troubleshooting Steps

Correct answer: B

According to the CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide (Exam FC0-U71, 3rd Edition, 2025):

“A crimper is used to attach modular connectors, such as RJ45 or RJ11, to network or phone cables. The crimper pushes the metal contacts into the wires, securing them in place.”

Punchdown tools, by contrast, are used for patch panels or keystone jacks, not RJ45 ends.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 2: Peripherals and Connectors — “Networking Tools: Crimpers, Punchdown Tools, Cable Testers” (pp. 106–108).

Output devices display or present data to users:

“A Smart TV displays visual and audio output, qualifying it as an output device.”

Web cameras, keyboards, and microphones are input devices that capture data rather than display or present it.

Device physical addresses, such as MAC (Media Access Control) addresses, are represented in hexadecimal format. A typical MAC address looks like 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E, using base-16 values (0–9 and A–F).

“MAC addresses are 48-bit identifiers assigned to network interfaces, commonly displayed in hexadecimal format.” — CompTIA ITF+ Networking Fundamentals

Correct answer: A

To visually represent steps in a process (such as a flowchart or workflow), diagramming software is the most appropriate tool. These applications are designed for creating flowcharts, organizational charts, and other process diagrams.

“Diagramming software is used to create visual representations of workflows, processes, and systems. Common uses include flowcharts and process maps.” — CompTIA ITF+ Study Guide

Correct answer: D

USB-C is commonly used for both charging and data transfer between modern computers and smartphones. It supports high-speed data transmission and is a standard port on most new smartphones.

“USB-C cables support power delivery and high-speed data transfer, and are commonly used to connect smartphones to computers.” — CompTIA ITF+ Guide

VGA is for video output.

Thunderbolt is high-speed, but typically used with Apple or specialized hardware.

NFC is a wireless protocol, not a cable.

Correct answer: A

The CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide details that wireless performance and range are significantly affected by interference:

“Interference from other electronics and obstructions will lower the data rate. Radio frequency interference (RFI) from communications devices will degrade the signal. Microwave ovens and electrical motors are notoriously harsh on wireless signals. Solid objects, especially concrete block walls and steel, cut down on range as well.”

Hence, interference is the most likely cause for the reduced wireless coverage.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 8: Networking Concepts and Technologies — “Wireless Interference and Attenuation” (pp. 440–441).

RAM (Random Access Memory) in smartphones and computers is most commonly measured in gigabytes (GB) today. Typical smartphone RAM ranges from 2GB to 16GB depending on performance and price.

“Memory capacity in modern devices like smartphones is measured in gigabytes (GB), reflecting their need to support multitasking and app usage.” — CompTIA ITF+ Official Resources

Other options:

KB and MB were used in earlier computing generations.

TB is used for storage, not RAM.

Correct answer: A

Personally Identifiable Information (PII) refers to any data that can be used to identify an individual uniquely. Full name and date of birth are classic examples of PII.

“PII includes data such as names, birth dates, Social Security numbers, and other information that can directly or indirectly identify a person.” — CompTIA ITF+ Security Essentials

Correct answers: A and B

Fiber optic internet provides the fastest residential internet speeds due to its use of light for data transmission. The CompTIA ITF+ FC0-U71 Official Study Guide explains:

"Fiber-optic cabling provides very high-speed data transfer using light signals, with much greater bandwidth and lower latency compared to DSL, cable, or satellite."

"DSL and cable are slower and often shared among users, while satellite suffers from high latency."

Disk management is the OS feature used to create, delete, format, or partition storage devices. It allows users to manage drives and volumes locally.

“Disk management tools are used to manage and configure storage devices, including creating and formatting partitions and volumes.” — CompTIA ITF+ Operating System Features

Correct answer: D

Artificial intelligence (AI) powers predictive text by analyzing user input patterns and language models to suggest likely words or phrases.

“AI enables predictive text by using language models and historical input to forecast what the user intends to type next.” — CompTIA ITF+ Emerging Technologies

Correct answer: C

Encryption protects files by converting them into unreadable formats unless the correct decryption key is provided. The CompTIA ITF+ FC0-U71 Official Study Guide explains:

"Encryption is the process of converting data into a secure format that cannot be read without a decryption key. Only users with the proper key can access the original data."

File permissions control user access based on OS-level rules, but encryption specifically ensures that only those with the key can read the file even if they access the file storage.

Hidden folders merely conceal files but don’t protect content. Compression reduces file size but doesn’t protect access.