A firewall can block traffic between workstations if it's not properly configured. If a user cannot connect from one device to another on the network, it is likely that the firewall settings are preventing this communication.

“Firewalls control the incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. If improperly configured, they may block legitimate access between devices.” — CompTIA ITF+ Study Guide

Other options:

B. Database – Not related to connectivity

C. Anti-malware – Protects from malicious software, not network configuration

D. Certificate – Used for secure communication, but not basic connectivity

Correct answer: A

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) creates a secure, encrypted connection over the internet between the user and a remote network, enabling secure access from home or public networks.

“VPNs provide a secure tunnel for transmitting data over unsecured networks, such as the internet, by encrypting all traffic between the client and the network.” — CompTIA ITF+ Security Topics

Other options:

A. LAN – Local and not for remote use

B. FTP – Transfers files but lacks modern encryption

C. DNS – Resolves domain names, not for access

Correct answer: D

The CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide provides a conversion table for storage units:

“1 bit = 1 bit, a single 0 or 1.

8 bits = 1 byte (one text character).

1,000 bytes = 1 kilobyte (KB).”

Thus, 8 bits equals 1 byte.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 1: Core Hardware Components — Table 1.2 “Bit and Byte Conversions” (p. 36).

The CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide identifies RJ45 as the standard Ethernet connector:

“An RJ45 connector is used to connect network cables to devices such as switches, routers, and computers. It’s the most common connector for Ethernet networking.”

RJ45 connectors terminate Cat 5, 5e, and 6 cables for network communication.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 2: Peripherals and Connectors — “Network Connectors: RJ45” (pp. 90–92).

Conferencing software (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Webex) enables users to conduct meetings online using audio, video, and screen sharing.

“Conferencing software facilitates real-time communication and collaboration over the internet through audio and video.” — CompTIA ITF+ Applications and Software

Correct answer: D

The CompTIA Tech+ Study Guide (Exam FC0-U71, 3rd Edition, 2025) clearly states:

“If you need to have multiple concurrent users accessing data, you need a database. Flat files don’t do well when several people try to access them at once. In the vast majority of cases, one user might be able to write to the file, but all users will be limited to a read-only copy.”

It further explains that:

“Databases generally lock only on a record level (or individual line of data), so multiple people can actively use the database at one time.”

Therefore, the best reason to convert a large spreadsheet to a database is to allow multiple concurrent users to access and update the data simultaneously without conflicts.

Verified Reference:

Chapter 7: Database Fundamentals — “When to Use Databases” (pp. 389–391).

An open-source license allows users to access, modify, and redistribute the software’s source code. It supports user customization and community contributions.

“Open-source software provides access to the source code, allowing users to inspect, modify, and enhance the software.” — CompTIA ITF+ Licensing and Software Concepts

Correct answer: C

The syntax shown uses tags like and

, which are characteristic of a markup language, specifically HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Markup languages describe the structure and presentation of text.

“Markup languages, such as HTML and XML, are used to annotate text so that the computer can manipulate it. HTML is used to design the structure of web pages using tags like ,

,

, etc.” — CompTIA ITF+ Official Guide

Other options:

Query languages like SQL retrieve data.

Compiled languages require compilation into machine code (e.g., C++).

Scripting languages are used for automation but don’t use markup syntax.

Correct answer: A

A password reuse policy prevents users from using the same password across multiple platforms or reusing previously used passwords. This is a best practice to reduce the risk of credential stuffing attacks.

“Password reuse policies help ensure users do not reuse old or existing passwords across multiple platforms, reducing exposure from compromised accounts.” — CompTIA ITF+ Security Objectives

Correct answer: A

The pseudocode reads from a block of numbers listed in line 40. This collection of values is structured like an array—a group of data elements stored together.

“An array is a collection of similar data elements stored in a structured sequence, often referenced or processed in loops.” — CompTIA ITF+ Programming Concepts

Correct answer: B