220-1102 Question 217
Single answerMultiple desktopsA remote employee using Windows 10 says their email, web browser, and ticketing app have "disappeared," but the apps are still listed as running on the taskbar. You connect remotely and confirm the applications are open, but they are not visible on the current desktop. The employee mentions they may have clicked something near Task View earlier in the day. What is the MOST likely action to restore access to the missing application windows without closing and reopening them?
- A
Open Task View and switch to the other virtual desktop where the applications are open
- B
Use Device Manager to refresh the display adapter so the windows redraw on the current desktop
- C
Open Task Manager and end each application process, then relaunch the applications
- D
Change the screen resolution to the recommended setting so off-screen windows snap back into view
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
This question tests practical troubleshooting of Windows multiple desktops, also called virtual desktops. In Windows 10, Task View allows users to create and switch between separate desktops while keeping applications open. A common support issue occurs when a user accidentally moves to another desktop and believes applications have closed or disappeared. The least disruptive and most efficient fix is to open Task View and switch back to the desktop containing those windows. This aligns with standard Windows functionality documented by Microsoft for Task View and virtual desktops. More invasive actions, such as ending processes or modifying display settings, should only be considered after simpler, evidence-based troubleshooting steps are ruled out.
- A. Correct.
Correct. In Windows 10, multiple desktops are managed through Task View. If applications appear to be running but are not visible on the current desktop, a common cause is that the user accidentally switched to another virtual desktop. Opening Task View and selecting the desktop that contains the missing windows restores access without interrupting the user's work.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. A display adapter refresh in Device Manager is not the appropriate first step for this symptom. The applications are still running, and the user's comment about Task View strongly points to virtual desktops rather than a graphics driver issue. This option reflects a troubleshooting misconception that all missing-window problems are display-driver related.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Ending the processes would likely close unsaved work and is unnecessarily disruptive. Since the applications are already open, the best practice is to identify whether they are on another virtual desktop before taking destructive action. This distractor represents an overly aggressive troubleshooting approach.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Changing resolution can sometimes help when windows are positioned off-screen after monitor or docking changes, but the scenario specifically mentions Task View and multiple desktops. That makes virtual desktop switching the more likely cause. This option is plausible because off-screen windows are a real issue, but it does not best fit the evidence provided.