220-1102 Question 612
Single answerCommon symptomsA technician is troubleshooting a Windows 11 laptop used by a remote employee. The user reports that pop-up ads appear even when no browser is open, the default browser homepage keeps changing, and the system has become noticeably slower over the last week. Antivirus scans do not find any traditional file-based virus. Which issue is the MOST likely cause of these symptoms?
- A
A failing SSD causing read/write delays
- B
A runaway Windows service consuming system resources
- C
A spyware or adware infection installed through bundled software
- D
An incorrect DNS server configured on the laptop
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
The best answer is a spyware or adware infection installed through bundled software. In CompTIA A+ Core 2, technicians are expected to recognize common malware symptoms from real-world reports. Pop-up ads, browser hijacking, changed homepages, and slow performance are strongly associated with adware, spyware, or potentially unwanted applications (PUAs). A hardware issue such as a failing SSD may slow the system but would not explain browser manipulation. Likewise, a misconfigured DNS server can affect connectivity but not typically generate local ad pop-ups. Standard best practice is to isolate the system if needed, inspect installed apps and browser extensions, run updated anti-malware scans, and remove suspicious software using approved remediation procedures. These symptoms align with widely documented Microsoft and security-vendor guidance on unwanted software behavior in Windows environments.
- A. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. A failing SSD can cause slow performance, file errors, boot problems, or application crashes, but it would not typically cause browser homepage changes or pop-up ads when no browser is open. Those symptoms point more strongly to unwanted software rather than hardware degradation.
- B. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. A runaway service could explain sluggish performance, high CPU use, or reduced battery life, but it does not commonly explain persistent pop-up ads and unauthorized homepage changes. Candidates may choose this because it fits the slowdown symptom, but it does not account for the full pattern of behavior.
- C. Correct.
This is correct. Spyware and adware commonly cause unexpected pop-up advertisements, browser redirection, changed homepages or search settings, and degraded system performance. On A+ Core 2, these are classic malware-related common symptoms, especially when installed through deceptive freeware bundles or unwanted browser extensions.
- D. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. Bad DNS settings can cause name resolution issues, inability to reach websites, or redirection in some cases, but they do not usually create desktop pop-up ads when no browser is open or repeatedly change local browser settings. This option is plausible because DNS problems can affect browsing behavior, but it does not best match the complete scenario.