1
Which component is commonly called the “brain” of the computer?
RAM CPU SSD Power supply
The CPU processes instructions and performs the main calculations that make the computer work.
2
What is the primary purpose of RAM in a computer?
Store files permanently Provide internet access Temporarily hold data the CPU is actively using Cool the processor
RAM is short-term memory. It temporarily stores data and programs currently in use so the CPU can access them quickly.
3
Which device is an output device?
Monitor Keyboard Scanner Microphone
A monitor displays information from the computer to the user, making it an output device.
4
What is the main role of an operating system?
Only browse the internet Only create documents Physically repair the computer Manage hardware and software resources
An operating system acts as the middle layer between hardware, applications, and the user.
5
Which of the following is an example of an operating system?
Google Chrome Windows 11 Microsoft Word Zoom
Windows 11 is an operating system. Chrome, Word, and Zoom are applications that run on top of an operating system.
6
What type of software is Microsoft Excel?
Application software Firmware BIOS Antivirus engine only
Excel is application software because it helps a user perform a task—in this case, spreadsheets and data work.
7
Firmware is best described as:
A social media app Temporary data stored in RAM A type of internet connection Low-level software stored on a device to help it operate
Firmware is built into hardware devices and helps them boot or function properly, such as BIOS/UEFI on a motherboard.
8
What does Wi-Fi allow a device to do?
Print without ink Charge its battery faster Connect to a network wirelessly Increase RAM automatically
Wi-Fi is wireless networking technology that lets a device connect to a local network or the internet without a cable.
9
Which device commonly connects your home network to the internet?
Router Mouse Projector Webcam
A router directs network traffic and commonly links the local home network to the internet connection.
One single computer in the United States A global network of connected networks An operating system for phones A type of keyboard cable
The internet is not one machine. It is a massive global collection of interconnected networks.
11
Which password is the strongest?
password123 matthew abc123 T!ger7$Lake_29
Strong passwords are longer and include a mix of uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols while avoiding obvious words.
Fixing a broken monitor Backing up files to a cloud account Tricking someone into giving up sensitive information Upgrading computer memory
Phishing is a social engineering attack that attempts to steal passwords, financial data, or other sensitive information.
13
Which action best helps protect your device from malware?
Keep software updated and use security tools Open all email attachments immediately Turn off your firewall permanently Use the same password everywhere
Updates patch known vulnerabilities, and security tools like antivirus and firewalls reduce infection risk.
14
A database is best described as:
A printer cable An organized collection of data A type of monitor screen A cooling fan for servers
Databases store data in an organized way so that it can be searched, updated, and reported on efficiently.
15
In a simple table, each horizontal entry is usually called a:
Formula Browser Domain Record
In database language, a row is commonly called a record, while a column is often called a field.
A hardware port A type of malware A step-by-step procedure for solving a problem A spreadsheet chart
An algorithm is a sequence of steps used to solve a problem or accomplish a task in computing and programming.
17
In programming, a variable is used to:
Store a value that can change Connect to Wi-Fi Physically replace RAM Encrypt a hard drive by itself
A variable is a named place in code where a value can be stored and used later.
18
What does a conditional statement do?
Deletes the operating system Makes decisions based on whether something is true or false Increases processor speed Creates a keyboard shortcut only
Conditionals let a program follow different paths depending on the outcome of a test or comparison.
19
A user says the monitor is blank. What is the best basic first check?
Replace the motherboard immediately Wipe the hard drive Install a new operating system Verify power and cable connections
Start simple. Confirm the monitor has power and that the display cable is connected properly before assuming major hardware failure.
20
Why is restarting a device often a useful troubleshooting step?
It can clear temporary glitches and reload system processes It permanently upgrades the CPU It guarantees the hard drive is fixed It increases internet speed forever
Restarting can reset stuck services, clear memory issues, and reinitialize hardware and software components.
21
Cloud storage allows users to:
Only save files on a USB flash drive Physically upgrade RAM over the internet Store files on remote servers accessed over the internet Turn a laptop into a router automatically
Cloud storage keeps data on remote infrastructure so users can access it from multiple devices over the internet.
22
What is multi-factor authentication (MFA)?
Using only one long password Using two or more verification methods to sign in Making multiple copies of a file Connecting to multiple monitors
MFA adds another layer of protection by requiring more than one proof of identity, such as a password plus a code.
A copy of data kept in case the original is lost or damaged A faster version of RAM A way to overclock the CPU A special kind of keyboard shortcut
Backups protect against accidental deletion, device failure, ransomware, and other causes of data loss.
24
Which file type is most commonly associated with a document you can edit in a word processor?
.mp3 .jpg .exe .docx
.docx is a common editable document file type used by Microsoft Word and similar word processors.
25
Which troubleshooting approach is usually best for beginners?
Start with the most expensive repair first Change multiple things at once and hope one works Begin with simple checks and test one thing at a time Skip documentation because it slows you down
Strong troubleshooting starts with the simplest likely cause, changes one variable at a time, and documents what was tested.