TestOut LabSim A+ Certification Practice Exam

What is the best way to protect a computer from power spikes during an electrical storm?

1. Use a surge protector

2. Install a UPS

3. Unplug the computer from the AC outlet

4. Turn off the computer

The correct answer is: Unplug the computer from the AC outlet

The best way to protect a computer from power spikes during an electrical storm is to use a surge protector. A surge protector is designed to absorb excess voltage and protect sensitive electronic equipment from power surges, which can occur during storms due to lightning strikes or fluctuations in the electrical supply. This device operates by diverting excess voltage away from the connected devices, thereby preventing damage from sudden increases in electrical power. Unplugging the computer from the AC outlet is a method that can also protect the equipment from power spikes, but it is not as practical or effective as using a surge protector. Unplugging requires immediate action and may not always be feasible in a severe storm situation, especially if the user is not home to perform the task. Installing a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) can provide backup power and protect against surges, but it is primarily intended to offer temporary power during outages rather than to block excess voltage. Turning off the computer can help in reducing energy consumption or preventing damage during storms, but it does not offer the same level of protection as a surge protector, which actively mitigates the risk of voltage surges. Using a surge protector is a proactive and reliable means of securing electronic devices against the unpredictable nature of electrical storms