Explanation
Cloning the original VM is the most efficient way to provide a VM with high availability. Cloning is the process of creating an exact copy of a VM, including its configuration, operating system, applications, and data. A cloned VM can be used as a backup or a replica of the original VM, and can be powered on and run independently. Cloning can be done quickly and easily using vSphere tools or other third-party software. By cloning the original VM and placing it on a different host server or availability zone, the technician can ensure that if the original VM fails, the cloned VM can take over its role and provide uninterrupted service to the users and applications.

Explanation
This is the least destructive method of resetting the administrator password because it does not require modifying any files or reinstalling the OS. It only requires changing the boot parameters temporarily and running a command to change the password. References:
https://wiki.archlinux.org/title/Reset_lost_root_password#Using_GRUB

Explanation
Wiping the drives is the most appropriate step to recycle and reuse the system drives. Wiping the drives means erasing all the data on the drives and overwriting them with random or meaningless data. This can help prevent data leakage, comply with regulations, and prepare the drives for a new installation or configuration. Wiping the drives is different from deleting or formatting the drives, which only remove the references to the data but not the data itself. References:
https://www.comptia.org/training/resources/exam-objectives/comptia-server-sk0-005-exam-objectives (Objective 1.3)

This is the best solution to prevent unauthorized files from being copied to the server via FTP because anonymous access allows anyone to log in to the FTP server without providing a username or password. Disabling anonymous access will require users to authenticate with valid credentials before accessing the FTP server. Reference: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/iis/configuration/system.applicationhost/sites/site/ftpserver/security/authentication/anonymousauthentication

Explanation
The tool that the administrator should use to check for unnecessary running services across 12 servers is a port scanner. A port scanner is a tool that scans a network device for open ports and identifies the services or applications that are running on those ports. A port scanner can help detect any unauthorized or unwanted services that may pose a security risk or consume network resources. A port scanner can also help troubleshoot network connectivity issues or verify firewall rules.