What does the screen with a folder and question mark indicate?

A folder with a question mark means the Mac can’t find a valid macOS system on any startup disk, often due to corruption or erasure.

Option B: Server verification isn’t indicated this way.

Option C: Internet Recovery failure shows a globe.

Option D: Encryption prompts for a password, not this symbol.

Option A: Correct—missing OS.References: Apple Support - "If your Mac starts up to a question mark" (support.apple.com/HT204156).