CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1202)Operational ProceduresMedium
A technician wants to protect a critical server from sudden power outages, allowing enough time for a graceful, automated shutdown. Which of the following devices should be used?
- AUninterruptible power supply (UPS)
- BStandard power strip
- CLine conditioner
- DSurge protector
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
A UPS provides battery backup power during an outage, giving systems time to shut down properly or allowing continued operation briefly. Surge protectors and power strips only guard against voltage spikes and do not provide backup power, and a line conditioner only regulates voltage quality.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A power strip offers no protection or backup power at all.
- C. A line conditioner smooths voltage fluctuations but does not supply power during an outage.
- D. Surge protectors block voltage spikes but provide no backup power.
Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
A UPS provides short-term battery backup power during outages, allowing systems time to save data and shut down safely.
- Protects against outages, not just spikes
- Provides limited runtime, not long-term power
- Often paired with surge protection features
Memory trick: UPS = 'Uninterrupted' means it keeps power flowing briefly.