220-1102 Question 289
Single answerDistribution methodsA support technician needs to deploy a required PDF reader update to 60 Windows laptops used by remote sales staff. Many of the users connect over slow home internet and do not have VPN access during the day. The company wants the installation to occur the next time each laptop checks in to the internet, with minimal user interaction and centralized reporting on which systems succeeded or failed. Which distribution method is the BEST choice?
- A
Email each user a link to the installer and ask them to run it manually
- B
Use a cloud-based Mobile Device Management (MDM) or endpoint management platform to push the application update
- C
Create a shared folder on the office file server and instruct users to install the update from there
- D
Use a USB flash drive to install the update during each user's next office visit
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
For A+ Core 2, distribution methods should be matched to the environment and business requirements. In a remote workforce scenario, cloud-managed deployment is typically the best fit because it allows software distribution over the internet without requiring users to be on-site or connected by VPN. It also supports centralized management and reporting, which are key operational needs in real environments. Manual methods such as email links or USB drives may work in small or one-off cases but are less reliable and harder to audit. Internal file shares are appropriate only when devices have network access to those resources. This aligns with common best practices for modern endpoint management using MDM or unified endpoint management tools on distributed systems.
- A. Incorrect.
This is incorrect because emailing a link relies on users to complete the installation themselves, which increases inconsistency and support calls. It also provides poor enforcement and limited centralized reporting. Although it is a common small-business approach, it does not meet the requirement for minimal user interaction and reliable status tracking.
- B. Correct.
This is correct because a cloud-based MDM or endpoint management solution is designed to distribute applications and updates to internet-connected devices even when they are off the corporate network. It supports centralized deployment, policy-based installation, and reporting on success or failure. This is the most appropriate distribution method for remote endpoints that may not use VPN regularly.
- C. Incorrect.
This is incorrect because a file share on an office server is generally useful only when devices can reach the internal network. In this scenario, users often work remotely without VPN access, so the laptops may not be able to access the share. It also does not provide the same level of centralized deployment control and reporting as an endpoint management platform.
- D. Incorrect.
This is incorrect because using USB media is a manual distribution method that does not scale well for 60 remote users and does not satisfy the requirement to install the update the next time devices check in online. It also creates administrative overhead and limited reporting. While removable media can be useful in isolated environments, it is not the best choice here.