COMPTIA A+ 220-901 EXAM (2026/2027) | ACTUAL EXAM Q&A
CompTIA A+ 220-901: Hardware and Networking Fundamentals Examination | Core Domains: PC
Hardware (Components, Assembly, Troubleshooting), Networking Concepts & Technologies, Mobile
Device Hardware, Printers & Printing Processes, Hardware & Network Troubleshooting, and
Operational Procedures (Safety, Communication, Professionalism) | IT Support & Technical
Certification Focus | Legacy Core Series Exam Format
Exam Structure
The CompTIA A+ 220-901 Exam for the 2026/2027 certification cycle is a 90-question, multiple-choice
question (MCQ) and performance-based examination.
Introduction
This CompTIA A+ 220-901 Exam guide for the 2026/2027 cycle prepares candidates for the legacy core
hardware and networking exam. While part of an older series, it remains relevant for foundational
knowledge, testing competency in installing, configuring, and troubleshooting PCs, mobile devices,
printers, and basic networks, along with understanding essential operational procedures for IT
professionals.
Answer Format
All correct answers and technical solutions must be presented in bold and green, followed by detailed
rationales that identify PC components and their functions, configure basic network settings (IP
addressing, SSID), troubleshoot common hardware and connectivity issues, compare printer
technologies, and apply proper safety and communication protocols in IT scenarios.
Questions (90 Total)
1. Which component stores data permanently even when the computer is powered off?
A. RAM
B. SSD
C. CPU cache
D. GPU memory
Rationale: SSDs (Solid State Drives) use NAND flash memory to store data persistently without
power. RAM, CPU cache, and GPU memory are volatile—they lose data when power is removed.
2. A user reports their Wi-Fi connection drops intermittently. What is the first step in troubleshooting?
A. Replace the router
B. Check if other devices on the same network have the same issue
C. Reinstall the OS
,D. Disable Bluetooth
Rationale: Isolating the problem is key. If other devices work fine, the issue is likely with the user’s
device (e.g., driver, adapter). If all devices drop, the problem is with the router or ISP.
3. Which type of printer uses toner and a fuser to produce output?
A. Inkjet
B. Laser
C. Dot matrix
D. Thermal
Rationale: Laser printers use electrostatic charges to attract toner (powdered ink) to paper, then melt
it with a heated fuser. Inkjets spray liquid ink; dot matrix uses pins; thermal uses heat-sensitive paper.
4. What is the purpose of an IP address in a network?
A. To identify the physical location of a device
B. To uniquely identify a device on a network for communication
C. To encrypt data transmissions
D. To assign a MAC address
Rationale: An IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.10) is a logical address that allows devices to locate and
communicate with each other over a network. MAC addresses are physical and used at the data link
layer.
5. A technician is upgrading RAM in a desktop. Which safety precaution is most important?
A. Wear safety goggles
B. Use an anti-static wrist strap
C. Unplug the monitor
D. Work on a carpeted floor
Rationale: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage sensitive components like RAM. An anti-static
wrist strap grounds the technician, preventing static buildup. Always handle components by edges and
work on anti-static mats.
6. Which wireless standard operates at 5 GHz and offers higher speeds than 802.11n?
A. 802.11a
, B. 802.11ac
C. 802.11g
D. 802.11b
Rationale: 802.11ac operates exclusively in the 5 GHz band and supports multi-user MIMO and wider
channels, offering speeds up to several Gbps—much faster than 802.11n (which uses 2.4/5 GHz).
7. A user cannot print from their laptop to a network printer. The printer works for others. What should
the technician check first?
A. Printer toner levels
B. Laptop's print queue and default printer settings
C. Router firmware
D. Ethernet cable
Rationale: Since the printer works for others, the issue is client-side. Check if the correct printer is
selected as default and if jobs are stuck in the queue. Restarting the print spooler often resolves this.
8. Which connector is used for modern video cards to interface with the motherboard?
A. PCI
B. PCIe x16
C. AGP
D. SATA
Rationale: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) x16 is the current standard for graphics
cards, offering high bandwidth. AGP and PCI are obsolete; SATA is for storage devices.
9. A mobile device screen is cracked but still functional. What is the best course of action?
A. Continue using it as-is
B. Replace the digitizer/screen assembly to prevent injury and further damage
C. Cover it with tape
D. Disable the touchscreen
Rationale: Cracked glass poses a laceration risk and can worsen, damaging the LCD or digitizer.
Replacement ensures safety and restores full functionality. Never ignore physical damage.
CompTIA A+ 220-901: Hardware and Networking Fundamentals Examination | Core Domains: PC
Hardware (Components, Assembly, Troubleshooting), Networking Concepts & Technologies, Mobile
Device Hardware, Printers & Printing Processes, Hardware & Network Troubleshooting, and
Operational Procedures (Safety, Communication, Professionalism) | IT Support & Technical
Certification Focus | Legacy Core Series Exam Format
Exam Structure
The CompTIA A+ 220-901 Exam for the 2026/2027 certification cycle is a 90-question, multiple-choice
question (MCQ) and performance-based examination.
Introduction
This CompTIA A+ 220-901 Exam guide for the 2026/2027 cycle prepares candidates for the legacy core
hardware and networking exam. While part of an older series, it remains relevant for foundational
knowledge, testing competency in installing, configuring, and troubleshooting PCs, mobile devices,
printers, and basic networks, along with understanding essential operational procedures for IT
professionals.
Answer Format
All correct answers and technical solutions must be presented in bold and green, followed by detailed
rationales that identify PC components and their functions, configure basic network settings (IP
addressing, SSID), troubleshoot common hardware and connectivity issues, compare printer
technologies, and apply proper safety and communication protocols in IT scenarios.
Questions (90 Total)
1. Which component stores data permanently even when the computer is powered off?
A. RAM
B. SSD
C. CPU cache
D. GPU memory
Rationale: SSDs (Solid State Drives) use NAND flash memory to store data persistently without
power. RAM, CPU cache, and GPU memory are volatile—they lose data when power is removed.
2. A user reports their Wi-Fi connection drops intermittently. What is the first step in troubleshooting?
A. Replace the router
B. Check if other devices on the same network have the same issue
C. Reinstall the OS
,D. Disable Bluetooth
Rationale: Isolating the problem is key. If other devices work fine, the issue is likely with the user’s
device (e.g., driver, adapter). If all devices drop, the problem is with the router or ISP.
3. Which type of printer uses toner and a fuser to produce output?
A. Inkjet
B. Laser
C. Dot matrix
D. Thermal
Rationale: Laser printers use electrostatic charges to attract toner (powdered ink) to paper, then melt
it with a heated fuser. Inkjets spray liquid ink; dot matrix uses pins; thermal uses heat-sensitive paper.
4. What is the purpose of an IP address in a network?
A. To identify the physical location of a device
B. To uniquely identify a device on a network for communication
C. To encrypt data transmissions
D. To assign a MAC address
Rationale: An IP address (e.g., 192.168.1.10) is a logical address that allows devices to locate and
communicate with each other over a network. MAC addresses are physical and used at the data link
layer.
5. A technician is upgrading RAM in a desktop. Which safety precaution is most important?
A. Wear safety goggles
B. Use an anti-static wrist strap
C. Unplug the monitor
D. Work on a carpeted floor
Rationale: Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can damage sensitive components like RAM. An anti-static
wrist strap grounds the technician, preventing static buildup. Always handle components by edges and
work on anti-static mats.
6. Which wireless standard operates at 5 GHz and offers higher speeds than 802.11n?
A. 802.11a
, B. 802.11ac
C. 802.11g
D. 802.11b
Rationale: 802.11ac operates exclusively in the 5 GHz band and supports multi-user MIMO and wider
channels, offering speeds up to several Gbps—much faster than 802.11n (which uses 2.4/5 GHz).
7. A user cannot print from their laptop to a network printer. The printer works for others. What should
the technician check first?
A. Printer toner levels
B. Laptop's print queue and default printer settings
C. Router firmware
D. Ethernet cable
Rationale: Since the printer works for others, the issue is client-side. Check if the correct printer is
selected as default and if jobs are stuck in the queue. Restarting the print spooler often resolves this.
8. Which connector is used for modern video cards to interface with the motherboard?
A. PCI
B. PCIe x16
C. AGP
D. SATA
Rationale: PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) x16 is the current standard for graphics
cards, offering high bandwidth. AGP and PCI are obsolete; SATA is for storage devices.
9. A mobile device screen is cracked but still functional. What is the best course of action?
A. Continue using it as-is
B. Replace the digitizer/screen assembly to prevent injury and further damage
C. Cover it with tape
D. Disable the touchscreen
Rationale: Cracked glass poses a laceration risk and can worsen, damaging the LCD or digitizer.
Replacement ensures safety and restores full functionality. Never ignore physical damage.
