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Question 181
A user reports that their Windows 10 laptop battery drains extremely fast even when idle. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Background processes consuming power, outdated drivers, or battery degradation
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Excessive battery drain on Windows laptops is often caused by background processes consuming system resources, outdated device drivers, or natural battery degradation. Modern laptops perform numerous background activities, including Windows Update, indexing, telemetry services, cloud synchronization, antivirus scanning, and app updates, all of which consume CPU cycles and energy. Monitoring these processes using Task Manager or Resource Monitor helps identify the most power-hungry tasks.
Device drivers, particularly for graphics cards, network adapters, and storage controllers, directly impact power management. Outdated or improperly configured drivers may prevent the system from entering low-power states such as Modern Standby or S3 sleep mode, causing continuous energy draw. Updating drivers from reliable sources or using Windows Update ensures that power-saving features function as designed.
Battery health is another critical factor. Over time, lithium-ion batteries lose capacity due to chemical aging. Windows provides battery diagnostics via Settings > Battery > Battery Report that can display full charge capacity versus design capacity. If the battery is significantly degraded, replacement may be necessary to restore typical operating times.
Power plan misconfigurations can also contribute to rapid drainage. Users should verify Control Panel > Power Options to ensure that the selected plan balances performance and energy efficiency. Enabling features such as adaptive brightness, battery saver mode, and sleep timers can mitigate drain. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing screen resolution, or reinstalling office software—have negligible impact on idle battery consumption. Preventive strategies include regular driver updates, battery health monitoring, disabling unnecessary startup apps, and managing power plans effectively. Understanding Windows power management, system resource consumption, and battery chemistry ensures optimal battery life, reduces unexpected shutdowns, and maintains productivity during mobile operations.
Question 182
A user reports that their system frequently displays “Critical Process Died” BSOD errors after installing multiple software updates. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Corrupted system files, incompatible updates, or driver conflicts
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
The “Critical Process Died” error in Windows is a severe BSOD triggered when a vital system process fails unexpectedly. This typically results from corrupted system files, incompatible updates, or driver conflicts. Windows updates sometimes overwrite critical system files, and if the process is interrupted, files can become corrupted. Running the System File Checker (sfc /scannow) and Deployment Imaging and Servicing Management (DISM) tools can repair these files and restore system stability.
Driver conflicts are another common cause. Incompatible drivers, especially for storage controllers, network adapters, and graphics devices, can interfere with essential processes, causing immediate system failure. Reviewing Device Manager for flagged drivers and updating them ensures proper operation. Rollback or clean installation of drivers may also resolve conflicts.
Software updates may occasionally be incompatible with legacy applications or existing system configurations. Reviewing Windows Update history and uninstalling recent updates can help isolate the problematic patch. Creating a system restore point prior to updates ensures that recovery is possible if critical errors occur. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not interfere with core system processes. Preventive strategies include verifying system file integrity regularly, updating drivers in a controlled manner, and staging updates in non-critical environments first. Understanding the relationship between system processes, updates, and driver dependencies is essential for maintaining system reliability, preventing unexpected crashes, and ensuring continued productivity without loss of critical data.
Question 183
A user reports that their Windows PC is unable to connect to a specific network printer while other devices on the network can print successfully. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Incorrect printer drivers, misconfigured network settings, or firewall restrictions
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
When a single Windows system cannot connect to a network printer while other devices function normally, the issue typically lies with incorrect printer drivers, misconfigured network settings, or firewall restrictions. Windows requires compatible printer drivers to communicate correctly with network printers. Using generic drivers or outdated software can prevent printing. Installing the latest driver from the manufacturer ensures proper device recognition and functionality.
Network configuration is another consideration. If the PC has a static IP conflicting with another device or resides on a different subnet than the printer, it will fail to connect. Using IP configuration tools like ipconfig or ensuring DHCP assignment is correct allows proper network routing. Additionally, Windows Firewall or third-party security software may block communication with the printer. Creating appropriate rules or exceptions in Windows Defender Firewall enables printer traffic while maintaining security.
Printer sharing permissions also affect accessibility. Users must ensure that they have the necessary permissions on the printer and the host system if the printer is shared from another computer. Testing connectivity using the printer’s IP address in Control Panel > Devices and Printers > Add a printer using a TCP/IP address can help isolate driver issues from network configuration problems. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect printer connectivity. Preventive strategies include using updated drivers, verifying network configurations, monitoring firewall rules, and maintaining proper user permissions. Understanding Windows printing architecture, TCP/IP networking, and driver dependencies ensures seamless access to network printers, reduces downtime, and maintains operational efficiency in multi-user environments.
Question 184
A user reports that their Windows system is showing high disk usage (100%) on Task Manager, despite minimal activity. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Background processes, disk fragmentation, or Windows services such as Superfetch/ SysMain
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Persistent high disk usage in Windows Task Manager, even with minimal activity, is often caused by background processes, disk fragmentation, or essential Windows services such as Superfetch (SysMain). Windows maintains multiple background operations that interact with storage devices, including indexing services, Windows Update, antivirus scans, and telemetry logging. These processes are necessary but may occasionally monopolize disk I/O, especially on traditional HDDs.
Superfetch, now referred to as SysMain, preloads frequently used applications into memory to improve performance. On systems with limited RAM or slower storage, this service can trigger 100% disk utilization. Disabling or modifying SysMain using services.msc may alleviate the issue temporarily. Disk fragmentation on mechanical drives also contributes to high I/O usage. Running Optimize Drives or switching to SSDs significantly reduces disk activity and improves responsiveness.
Malware infections may also cause high disk utilization. Malicious software running in the background can continuously read and write to disk, degrading performance. Performing a full malware scan is essential. Additionally, paging file mismanagement can exacerbate disk usage. Ensuring adequate RAM and configuring page file settings appropriately can reduce excessive disk activity. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not directly affect disk usage. Preventive strategies include regular monitoring of background processes, maintaining disk health, running malware scans, and optimizing virtual memory settings. Understanding disk I/O mechanisms, service behavior, and system performance optimization is essential for preventing bottlenecks, maintaining system responsiveness, and ensuring a smooth user experience even under heavy system demand.
Question 185
A user reports that their Windows system frequently loses sound output when switching between multiple audio devices. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Incorrect default playback device, driver conflicts, or Windows audio service issues
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Windows systems that lose sound output when switching between devices commonly suffer from incorrect default playback device configuration, driver conflicts, or issues with the Windows Audio service. Windows allows multiple playback devices, including integrated speakers, headphones, and external USB audio devices. If the default device is not properly selected, audio may be routed to the wrong device or fail entirely. Adjusting the default device in Settings > Sound or Control Panel > Sound resolves many issues.
Driver conflicts are another major contributor. Installing multiple audio drivers or outdated drivers may prevent Windows from correctly managing audio devices. Updating or reinstalling drivers via Device Manager ensures proper operation and device enumeration. In some cases, third-party audio software or enhancements may interfere with device switching, requiring configuration adjustments or software removal.
Windows Audio service must also be operational. If the service fails or is unstable, audio output may be disrupted during device transitions. Restarting the service or enabling automatic restart in services.msc ensures reliability. Additional troubleshooting steps include checking for firmware updates for external audio devices, confirming proper connection standards (USB, Bluetooth, HDMI), and reviewing system event logs for errors related to audio services. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect audio device management. Preventive strategies include maintaining updated drivers, configuring default devices appropriately, and monitoring audio services. Understanding audio routing, driver dependencies, and Windows sound architecture ensures uninterrupted audio performance across multiple devices, improving user experience in multimedia and professional settings.
Question 186
A user reports that their Windows system displays frequent “Page Fault in Nonpaged Area” BSOD errors after installing a large game. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Faulty RAM, incompatible drivers, or software conflicts
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
The “Page Fault in Nonpaged Area” BSOD occurs when Windows attempts to access a portion of memory that is marked as nonpaged, meaning it should always remain in RAM, but the data is either missing or inaccessible. This issue is commonly caused by faulty RAM, incompatible drivers, or conflicts with recently installed software. Memory errors, particularly in systems with newly installed or overclocked RAM, can trigger these critical failures. Testing the system using Windows Memory Diagnostic or MemTest86 allows administrators to identify faulty memory modules and isolate defective hardware.
Driver incompatibilities are another frequent cause. Graphics card drivers or storage drivers associated with high-performance gaming may conflict with Windows kernel processes, particularly if the drivers are outdated or improperly installed. Ensuring drivers are obtained from verified sources and installing them cleanly can resolve such issues. Recently installed software, especially games requiring significant system resources, may inadvertently modify system files or engage in memory-intensive operations that expose underlying hardware or driver issues. Running the system in Safe Mode can help isolate software conflicts by disabling non-essential drivers and applications.
Additional preventive measures include monitoring virtual memory settings, ensuring the page file is adequately sized, and maintaining a stable system environment without aggressive overclocking. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not cause memory-related BSOD errors. Understanding memory architecture, driver dependencies, and software interactions is crucial for diagnosing and preventing page fault errors. Proper management ensures system stability, reduces the risk of data corruption, and improves reliability during high-performance computing activities.
Question 187
A user reports that their Windows system shows a black screen on startup after a recent update. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Corrupted display driver, incomplete update, or incompatible graphics hardware
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
A black screen on startup after a Windows update is frequently caused by a corrupted display driver, an incomplete system update, or incompatible graphics hardware. Display drivers manage communication between Windows and the graphics card. If the driver is corrupted during an update or incompatible with the current Windows version, the system may fail to render the desktop, resulting in a black screen. Booting into Safe Mode allows access to the system with minimal drivers, enabling the removal or rollback of the faulty display driver.
Incomplete updates, particularly those interrupted by power loss, malware, or insufficient disk space, can leave essential system files in an inconsistent state. Using tools like System Restore or Windows Recovery Environment helps restore the system to a stable state. In some cases, graphics hardware may be incompatible with the latest updates due to outdated firmware or unsupported features. Updating BIOS/UEFI and verifying hardware compatibility with the update documentation mitigates this issue.
Other considerations include examining connected peripherals, as some devices can conflict with the display during startup, and reviewing system logs in the Event Viewer to identify driver or update errors. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not impact startup display initialization. Preventive strategies include keeping display drivers updated, ensuring stable and uninterrupted updates, and verifying hardware compatibility with upcoming patches. Understanding the interaction between Windows updates, drivers, and hardware ensures reliable system startups, prevents downtime, and maintains operational efficiency.
Question 188
A user reports that their Windows system frequently freezes while accessing network shares, while local files work normally. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Network latency, SMB protocol issues, or authentication errors
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Frequent system freezes when accessing network shares indicate issues related to network latency, SMB (Server Message Block) protocol issues, or authentication errors. Windows relies on network protocols like SMB to communicate with file servers and shared drives. High network latency, packet loss, or bandwidth limitations can interrupt these communications, causing the system to appear frozen while waiting for server responses. Running network diagnostics using ping, tracert, or performance monitoring tools can identify latency or packet loss issues.
SMB protocol issues are another common factor. Different versions of SMB (SMBv1, SMBv2, SMBv3) may not be compatible with both the client and server, resulting in failed or slow connections. Ensuring that both systems use compatible SMB versions and updating network drivers helps resolve protocol-related freezes. Authentication errors, particularly in domain environments, can prevent the system from accessing network resources. This includes incorrect credentials cached by Windows, expired passwords, or misconfigured permissions on shared folders. Using the Credential Manager and verifying share permissions ensures proper access without freezing.
Additional preventive measures include maintaining stable network connections, optimizing server performance, and ensuring firmware on networking devices such as switches and routers is up-to-date. Monitoring network traffic and avoiding simultaneous high-bandwidth operations can also prevent freezing. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect network share access. Understanding SMB protocols, authentication mechanisms, and network performance is essential for reliable remote file access. Proper network management ensures productivity and minimizes interruptions during collaborative work or remote operations.
Question 189
A user reports that their Windows system cannot detect external hard drives via USB, while other USB devices work fine. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Insufficient power delivery, outdated USB drivers, or disk initialization issues
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
When Windows fails to detect external hard drives but recognizes other USB devices, the issue is often related to insufficient power delivery, outdated USB drivers, or problems with disk initialization. External hard drives, particularly those with mechanical components, require more power than simple peripherals like mice or keyboards. If connected to a low-powered USB port or hub, the drive may not receive sufficient energy to spin up and communicate with Windows. Using a powered hub or connecting directly to a high-power USB port mitigates this issue.
Outdated or missing USB drivers can also prevent detection. Windows requires drivers to correctly interface with storage devices. Updating drivers via Device Manager or Windows Update often restores functionality. If the drive is detected in Disk Management but not assigned a drive letter, it may be uninitialized or improperly formatted. Initializing the disk using GPT or MBR, and creating a new partition, enables proper access.
Other factors include examining the USB cable for damage, testing the drive on another computer, and verifying that Windows services such as Plug and Play are running. Antivirus or third-party software may also block device detection, requiring configuration adjustments. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect external drive detection. Preventive strategies include using quality USB cables, monitoring driver updates, and ensuring sufficient power delivery for external storage devices. Understanding USB power specifications, driver dependencies, and disk initialization processes ensures reliable external storage access and prevents workflow interruptions caused by inaccessible drives.
Question 190
A user reports that their Windows system repeatedly asks for network credentials when accessing shared folders, despite entering correct credentials. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Credential caching issues, domain mismatch, or incorrect network permissions
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Repeated prompts for network credentials in Windows often indicate credential caching issues, domain mismatches, or incorrect permissions on shared resources. Windows caches credentials locally to streamline authentication with network shares. If cached credentials become corrupted, the system may repeatedly request input even when the correct username and password are used. Clearing stored credentials in the Credential Manager or using cmdkey /delete resolves these issues.
Domain mismatches can also trigger repeated prompts. If the computer is part of a different domain than the file server, Windows may reject credentials until explicitly specified with the correct domain prefix (DOMAIN\username). Ensuring proper domain configuration and verifying the computer’s membership in the correct network domain is critical. Permissions are another key factor. Users must have the appropriate NTFS and share-level permissions for access. Misconfigured ACLs or group policies may deny access, causing Windows to prompt for credentials repeatedly.
Other considerations include ensuring network time synchronization between client and server, as time differences can cause authentication failures, particularly in environments using Kerberos. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect network authentication. Preventive strategies include properly managing credential caches, validating domain configurations, and reviewing share permissions. Understanding authentication mechanisms, domain policies, and credential management ensures seamless access to shared resources, reduces frustration, and supports efficient collaboration across networks.
Question 191
A user reports that their Windows system takes an unusually long time to boot after the latest update. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Excessive startup programs, pending updates, or fragmented system files
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Prolonged boot times in Windows systems are often caused by excessive startup programs, pending updates, or fragmented system files. Windows allows multiple programs to launch automatically at startup, including antivirus software, cloud synchronization tools, messaging apps, and drivers’ background utilities. When too many programs attempt to initialize simultaneously, they compete for CPU cycles and disk I/O, slowing boot performance. Using Task Manager > Startup tab to disable unnecessary programs significantly improves boot time.
Pending Windows updates can also extend boot sequences. Updates often require system file modifications and service restarts, which can temporarily increase boot duration. Verifying that all updates have successfully installed and allowing the system to complete post-update configurations mitigates prolonged boot times. Fragmented system files, particularly on traditional mechanical hard drives, force the disk to seek noncontiguous file segments during startup, increasing load time. Running disk optimization tools or switching to SSD storage enhances file access speed and boot efficiency.
Other contributing factors include driver conflicts, especially with storage controllers or graphics adapters, which may slow initialization. Malware or resource-intensive background services can further exacerbate the issue. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not significantly affect startup performance. Preventive strategies include regular monitoring of startup programs, keeping the system updated, maintaining disk health, and performing malware scans. Understanding the interplay between startup applications, system files, and Windows update processes ensures faster boot times, improved user experience, and operational efficiency in daily computing environments.
Question 192
A user reports that their Windows 10 system is unable to connect to Wi-Fi networks, but Ethernet connections work fine. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Wireless adapter driver issues, incorrect Wi-Fi configuration, or disabled radio
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
When a Windows 10 system cannot connect to Wi-Fi networks while Ethernet works, the issue is commonly caused by wireless adapter driver issues, incorrect Wi-Fi configuration, or a disabled radio. Wireless adapters require drivers to communicate effectively with the operating system. If the driver is outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with the current Windows version, the adapter may fail to detect or connect to networks. Updating or reinstalling the driver through Device Manager resolves many connectivity issues.
Incorrect Wi-Fi configuration, including wrong SSID selection, password errors, or mismatched security settings (WPA2 vs WPA3), can prevent the system from establishing a connection. Ensuring correct network credentials and security protocols resolves such problems. Additionally, the wireless radio may be disabled through function keys, BIOS settings, or Windows’ network settings, causing the system to appear disconnected. Verifying that the Wi-Fi radio is enabled ensures proper network functionality.
Other contributing factors include interference from nearby electronic devices, weak signal strength, and access point limitations such as MAC address filtering. Troubleshooting steps include running Windows Network Troubleshooter, resetting TCP/IP stack using netsh int ip reset, and testing the adapter on another network. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not impact wireless connectivity. Preventive measures include updating drivers, confirming correct network settings, and maintaining hardware functionality. Understanding wireless communication, driver dependencies, and network configurations ensures seamless Wi-Fi connectivity, essential for remote work, cloud access, and collaborative applications.
Question 193
A user reports that their Windows 10 system intermittently loses access to mapped network drives after sleep mode. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Network discovery settings, credential persistence, or power management policies
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Intermittent loss of mapped network drives after sleep mode is typically caused by network discovery settings, credential persistence, or power management policies. When Windows enters sleep or hibernation, network interfaces may be powered down or placed into low-power states. If network discovery is disabled, Windows may fail to reconnect to the mapped drives upon waking, requiring manual reconnection. Enabling network discovery in Control Panel > Network and Sharing Center > Advanced sharing settings ensures persistent visibility of network resources.
Credential persistence is also critical. If Windows does not save login credentials properly, attempts to reconnect to network shares after sleep will prompt for authentication repeatedly. Using the Credential Manager to store usernames and passwords for network drives resolves this issue. Power management settings on network adapters may also disrupt connectivity. By default, Windows allows the system to turn off devices to save power. Disabling “Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power” in the network adapter properties maintains continuous connectivity.
Additional measures include checking Group Policy settings for mapped drives, ensuring consistent domain authentication, and verifying that the server hosting the shares remains online. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect mapped drive persistence. Preventive strategies include configuring network discovery, ensuring credential storage, and optimizing power management settings. Understanding sleep mode behavior, adapter power policies, and authentication persistence ensures reliable network resource access, reducing interruptions in workflow and improving productivity in enterprise environments.
Question 194
A user reports that their Windows 10 system frequently displays “Low Disk Space” notifications on the system drive, despite minimal personal files. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Large temporary files, page file configuration, or system restore points
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Persistent “Low Disk Space” notifications on the system drive, even with minimal user files, are often caused by large temporary files, page file configuration, or multiple system restore points. Windows creates temporary files during operations such as software installation, Windows Update, and browsing activity. Over time, these files accumulate and occupy significant disk space. Using Disk Cleanup or Storage Sense to remove temporary files regularly frees up storage.
The page file, which Windows uses as virtual memory, can occupy considerable disk space, especially if system RAM is limited. Properly configuring the page file size or moving it to a secondary drive reduces pressure on the system partition. System restore points, designed to protect the operating system, may also consume gigabytes of disk space if multiple points are stored. Managing restore points and deleting older snapshots preserves storage for critical tasks.
Additional factors include hibernation files, log files, and residual files from failed updates. Enabling Storage Sense and monitoring folder sizes allows proactive management of disk usage. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not contribute significantly to low disk space warnings. Preventive strategies include periodic cleanup of temporary and log files, configuring virtual memory efficiently, managing restore points, and monitoring overall disk usage. Understanding Windows storage management ensures optimized system performance, prevents application failures due to insufficient space, and maintains a responsive user experience.
Question 195
A user reports that their Windows 10 system intermittently fails to print to a network printer, while other devices work fine. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Spooler service issues, corrupted printer driver, or network path problems
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Intermittent failure to print on a Windows 10 system, while other devices can print successfully, is usually caused by print spooler service issues, corrupted printer drivers, or network path problems. The print spooler manages print jobs, queuing them for processing by the printer. If the service crashes or becomes unstable, print jobs cannot reach the printer. Restarting the spooler service using services.msc restores functionality temporarily.
Corrupted printer drivers are another common cause. Drivers facilitate communication between the operating system and printer hardware. If a driver becomes corrupted or is incompatible with the Windows version, print jobs may fail or be partially processed. Removing the existing driver and reinstalling the latest version from the manufacturer resolves such issues. Network path problems, including intermittent connectivity, incorrect IP addresses, or DNS resolution failures, prevent communication with network printers. Ensuring that the printer’s IP address is correct and reachable, testing connectivity via ping or IP address, and confirming proper permissions prevents printing failures.
Other contributing factors include firewall restrictions, outdated firmware on network printers, and misconfigured printer queues. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect network printing. Preventive strategies include monitoring the print spooler service, updating drivers, maintaining network reliability, and ensuring proper access permissions. Understanding printer architecture, spooler service behavior, and network communication ensures reliable printing, reduces downtime, and improves workflow efficiency in multi-user environments.
Question 196
A user reports that their Windows system frequently encounters high CPU usage even when idle. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Background processes, malware infection, or outdated drivers
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Persistent high CPU usage on a Windows system, even when the system appears idle, is commonly caused by background processes, malware infections, or outdated drivers. Background processes include legitimate system tasks, such as Windows Update, indexing services, and scheduled maintenance, which may consume significant CPU cycles if misconfigured or stuck in a loop. Monitoring these processes via Task Manager helps identify which tasks consume abnormal resources.
Malware infections are another frequent cause of high CPU utilization. Viruses, trojans, and cryptojackers often run background processes that demand excessive processing power, slowing down the system and potentially compromising security. Running a comprehensive antivirus scan and leveraging Windows Defender Offline removes malicious software and restores normal CPU performance.
Outdated drivers, particularly for graphics cards, network adapters, and chipset components, can cause CPU bottlenecks. Drivers mediate communication between hardware and the operating system; incompatibilities or corrupted drivers can force the CPU to handle tasks inefficiently, leading to high utilization. Updating drivers via Device Manager or manufacturer tools resolves performance issues.
Other considerations include excessive startup programs, browser extensions, and resource-heavy applications running in the background. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not significantly impact idle CPU utilization. Preventive strategies include keeping software and drivers updated, running regular malware scans, monitoring resource usage, and managing startup programs. Understanding CPU utilization patterns, background processes, and driver dependencies ensures stable system performance, reduces system lag, and improves responsiveness during both active and idle periods.
Question 197
A user reports that their Windows system frequently loses Bluetooth connectivity with peripherals. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Outdated Bluetooth drivers, interference from nearby devices, or low battery in peripherals
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Intermittent Bluetooth connectivity issues are commonly caused by outdated drivers, interference from nearby devices, or low battery in connected peripherals. Bluetooth drivers ensure proper communication between the operating system and Bluetooth hardware. If drivers are outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with the current Windows version, connections may drop unexpectedly. Updating drivers through Device Manager or manufacturer-provided tools resolves most connectivity problems.
Interference from nearby wireless devices, such as Wi-Fi routers operating on the 2.4 GHz frequency, microwaves, and other Bluetooth devices, can cause signal interruptions. Changing the operating environment, moving devices closer, or switching to a 5 GHz Wi-Fi band minimizes interference. Low battery levels in peripherals, including mice, keyboards, or headsets, can also lead to frequent disconnections. Monitoring battery levels and charging devices regularly ensures stable connectivity.
Other contributing factors include Windows power management settings, which may turn off Bluetooth devices to save energy. Adjusting Device Manager > Power Management settings prevents the system from disabling Bluetooth hardware. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not impact Bluetooth performance. Preventive strategies include keeping drivers updated, monitoring device batteries, avoiding interference, and configuring proper power management. Understanding wireless communication protocols, driver requirements, and peripheral power needs ensures reliable Bluetooth connectivity, essential for seamless interaction with devices and efficient workflow.
Question 198
A user reports that their Windows system fails to recognize SD cards inserted into the built-in card reader, while USB drives work normally. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Faulty card reader driver, incorrect SD card formatting, or hardware failure
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
When a Windows system cannot recognize SD cards through a built-in card reader, while USB drives function normally, the issue is typically caused by a faulty card reader driver, incorrect SD card formatting, or hardware failure. Drivers facilitate communication between Windows and the card reader. If the driver is outdated, corrupted, or incompatible with the current OS version, the system may fail to detect inserted SD cards. Updating or reinstalling the driver in Device Manager often resolves recognition issues.
Incorrect SD card formatting is another common cause. SD cards formatted with non-Windows-compatible file systems, such as exFAT or Linux-specific formats, may not be detected by Windows without additional drivers or utilities. Reformatting the card to FAT32 or exFAT restores compatibility. Hardware failure of the card reader, caused by physical damage, dust accumulation, or manufacturing defects, may also prevent detection. Testing the SD card in an external USB card reader or another system helps isolate whether the problem lies in the hardware.
Other contributing factors include loose internal connections or conflicts with third-party software. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not affect SD card recognition. Preventive strategies include maintaining updated drivers, proper card formatting, and careful handling of the card reader. Understanding driver dependencies, file system compatibility, and hardware reliability ensures smooth operation for reading and writing SD cards, critical for photography, video editing, and portable data storage workflows.
Question 199
A user reports that their Windows system cannot access certain websites, while other websites load normally. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) DNS cache corruption, browser settings, or network restrictions
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
When a Windows system cannot access specific websites but can reach others, the issue is often caused by DNS cache corruption, browser misconfigurations, or network restrictions. DNS (Domain Name System) converts website names into IP addresses. If the local DNS cache contains outdated or corrupted entries, the system may fail to resolve specific domains. Flushing the DNS cache using ipconfig /flushdns restores accurate resolution.
Browser settings, including proxies, firewall rules, or misconfigured extensions, can also block access to specific websites. Reviewing browser configuration, clearing cache, and disabling suspicious extensions often resolves connectivity issues. Network restrictions, such as firewall policies, parental controls, or ISP-level filtering, may prevent access to particular websites. Verifying network configurations and consulting with network administrators ensures proper connectivity.
Other contributing factors include security software blocking certain URLs, malware modifying host files, and VPN misconfigurations. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not impact web access. Preventive strategies include maintaining accurate DNS settings, monitoring browser configurations, ensuring appropriate network permissions, and scanning for malware. Understanding DNS resolution, browser interactions, and network policies ensures reliable access to critical online resources, enhancing productivity and reducing workflow interruptions.
Question 200
A user reports that their Windows system automatically restarts during updates and loses unsaved work. Which of the following is the most likely cause?
A) Active hours not configured, pending updates requiring restart, or automatic update settings
B) Change desktop wallpaper
C) Increase screen resolution
D) Reinstall office software
Answer: A
Explanation:
Automatic restarts during Windows updates, resulting in lost unsaved work, are commonly caused by active hours not configured, pending updates requiring restart, or automatic update settings. Windows Update schedules installations to occur automatically, often followed by a system restart to complete the process. If active hours, the period during which the user typically works on the device, are not configured in Settings > Update & Security > Change active hours, the system may restart unexpectedly during working hours.
Pending updates requiring a restart can also trigger automatic reboots if the system detects no user activity or after a grace period. Ensuring updates are installed manually, scheduling restarts outside active work periods, or using group policy settings to control automatic restarts minimizes disruption. Misconfigured automatic update settings, such as enabling forced updates without notifications, exacerbate the issue. Adjusting these settings allows users to maintain control over when updates and reboots occur.
Other considerations include monitoring for unsaved work, using applications with auto-save features, and leveraging OneDrive or cloud backup solutions to reduce data loss. Options B), C), and D—changing wallpaper, increasing resolution, or reinstalling office software—do not influence automatic restarts. Preventive strategies include configuring active hours, scheduling updates during off-hours, and ensuring applications regularly save data. Understanding Windows Update behavior, system restart triggers, and update management ensures system security while maintaining productivity and protecting unsaved work from being lost unexpectedly.
