Computer Knowledge
Computer Fundamentals and System Concepts
2,421 Questions
Computer fundamentals and system concepts questions cover core hardware components, operating systems, and historical computer milestones. Topics include the kernel, central processing unit, and basic computing terminology. These foundational questions are strictly essential for scoring well in computer knowledge sections.
Central processing unitComputer operating systemsSupercomputer milestonesSystem registry functionsKernel operationsAndroid applications
Computer Fundamentals and System Concepts Questions
What was the first computer?
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The ENIAC
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The UNIVAC
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The IBM 701
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The CDC 6600
A
Correct answer
Explanation
The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was the first electronic computer. It was built by John Atanasoff and Clifford Berry at the University of Pennsylvania and was completed in 1946.
What was the first personal computer?
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The Altair 8800
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The TRS-80
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The Apple II
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The IBM PC
A
Correct answer
Explanation
The Altair 8800 was the first personal computer. It was introduced in 1975 by MITS (Micro Instrumentation and Telemetry Systems).
Which of the following is NOT a type of computer application?
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Word processing
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Spreadsheet
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Database
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Operating system
D
Correct answer
Explanation
An operating system is a system software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs.
Which of the following is NOT a type of computer software?
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System software
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Application software
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Firmware
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Hardware
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Hardware is the physical components of a computer, not a type of computer software.
Which of the following is NOT a type of computer hardware?
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Processor
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Memory
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Storage
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Software
D
Correct answer
Explanation
Software is not a type of computer hardware.
What was the name of the first computer algebra system?
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REDUCE
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MACSYMA
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Scratchpad
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Axiom
A
Correct answer
Explanation
REDUCE was the first computer algebra system, developed in the early 1960s.
Which principle emphasizes the importance of transparency and accountability in data usage?
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Data minimization
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Data accuracy
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Transparency and accountability
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Non-maleficence
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Transparency and accountability are key principles in data ethics, requiring organizations to be transparent about their data practices and accountable for the ethical implications of their data usage.
What is the primary function of a computer's central processing unit (CPU)?
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To store data
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To perform calculations and control the flow of information
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To connect to the internet
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To display information on a screen
B
Correct answer
Explanation
The CPU is the brain of the computer, responsible for executing instructions, performing calculations, and controlling the flow of information between different components.
What is the term for a computer program that can perform tasks without human intervention?
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Artificial intelligence
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Virtual reality
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Augmented reality
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Machine learning
A
Correct answer
Explanation
Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to the ability of computer systems to perform tasks that typically require human intelligence, such as understanding natural language, recognizing patterns, and making decisions.
What is the purpose of a computer's operating system?
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To manage the computer's hardware and software resources
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To store data
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To connect to the internet
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To display information on a screen
A
Correct answer
Explanation
An operating system is a software that manages the computer's hardware and software resources, such as memory, storage, and input/output devices, and provides a platform for running application programs.
What is the main purpose of a computer?
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To process data
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To store data
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To communicate with other computers
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All of the above
D
Correct answer
Explanation
A computer is a machine that can be programmed to carry out a set of instructions. It can process data, store data, and communicate with other computers.
What are the main components of a computer?
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Processor
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Memory
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Storage
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Input devices
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Output devices
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All of the above
F
Correct answer
Explanation
The main components of a computer are the processor, memory, storage, input devices, and output devices.
What is the function of a processor?
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To control the flow of data and instructions
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To perform calculations and logical operations
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To store data and instructions
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To communicate with other computers
A
Correct answer
Explanation
The processor is the brain of the computer. It controls the flow of data and instructions, and performs calculations and logical operations.
What is the purpose of an operating system?
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To manage the computer's resources
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To provide a user interface
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To run applications
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All of the above
D
Correct answer
Explanation
An operating system is a software program that manages the computer's resources, provides a user interface, and runs applications.
Which of the following is a common type of malware?
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Virus
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Worm
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Trojan horse
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Ransomware
A
Correct answer
Explanation
A virus is a type of malware that can replicate itself and spread from one computer to another. It can attach itself to legitimate programs or files and execute its malicious code when the program or file is run.