CompTIA A+ Core 2 (220-1102) — Question 427

A technician has been unable to remediate a persistent malware infection on a user's workstation. After the technician reinstalled the OS, the malware infection returned later that day. Which of the following is the most likely source?

Answer options

• A. Trojan
• B. Boot sector virus
• C. Spyware
• D. Rootkit

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The most likely source of the persistent malware infection is a rootkit, as rootkits can hide themselves within the operating system, allowing them to survive OS reinstalls. Trojans, boot sector viruses, and spyware do not typically have the same capability to remain undetected after a fresh installation of the OS.