Computer Fundamentals MCQ Test for Competitive Exams

Prepare for competitive exams with our comprehensive Computer Fundamentals MCQ Test. Practice essential topics in hardware, software, operating systems and networking.

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  • 📋 Total Questions: 30
  • Time Limit: 30 minutes
  • 📝 Marking Scheme: +1 for each correct answer. No negative marking.
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1. What is the brain of the computer commonly referred to as?

  • CPU (Central Processing Unit)
  • RAM (Random Access Memory)
  • Hard Drive
  • Motherboard

2. Which of the following is an input device?

  • Speaker
  • Monitor
  • Printer
  • Keyboard

3. What does RAM stand for in computing?

  • Random Access Memory
  • Read Access Memory
  • Rapid Access Memory
  • Rotational Access Memory

4. What is the main function of the ALU in a computer?

  • Store data temporarily
  • Perform arithmetic and logical operations
  • Manage data flow between the CPU and peripherals
  • Control the execution of instructions

5. What type of memory is non-volatile and permanently stores data?

  • ROM (Read-Only Memory)
  • RAM (Random Access Memory)
  • Cache Memory
  • Registers

6. Which of the following is an example of system software?

  • Operating System
  • Word Processor
  • Spreadsheet Application
  • Web Browser

7. What does BIOS stand for in a computer system?

  • Binary Integrated Operating System
  • Binary Input Output System
  • Basic Integrated Operating System
  • Basic Input Output System

8. What is the primary purpose of a computer's operating system?

  • Manage hardware and software resources
  • Perform arithmetic calculations
  • Provide internet connectivity
  • Store large amounts of data

9. Which of the following is an example of application software?

  • BIOS
  • Linux Kernel
  • Microsoft Word
  • Device Drivers

10. Which type of storage device uses magnetic disks to store data?

  • Flash Drive
  • Solid-State Drive (SSD)
  • Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
  • Optical Disk

11. What is the primary purpose of a compiler in programming?

  • Convert source code into machine code
  • Debug software
  • Execute programs directly
  • Manage system hardware

12. What does GUI stand for in computing?

  • General User Interface
  • Graphical User Interface
  • Global User Interaction
  • General User Interaction

13. What is the primary function of a modem?

  • Convert digital signals to analog and vice versa
  • Connect multiple devices in a network
  • Store large amounts of data
  • Perform arithmetic calculations

14. What does the term "cloud computing" refer to?

  • Storing and accessing data over the internet
  • High-performance local storage systems
  • Networking multiple local devices
  • Processing data in offline systems

15. What is the purpose of a firewall in a computer network?

  • Protect against unauthorized access
  • Enhance internet speed
  • Backup data
  • Optimize software performance

16. Which type of software translates high-level programming code into machine language?

  • Compiler
  • Debugger
  • Assembler
  • Text Editor

17. What is the function of a cache memory in a computer?

  • Speed up access to frequently used data
  • Increase storage capacity
  • Improve system security
  • Backup critical files

18. What is the full form of IP in networking?

  • Internet Protocol
  • Internal Processing
  • Integrated Platform
  • Intelligent Processing

19. What is the name of the first generation of computers based on?

  • Vacuum Tubes
  • Transistors
  • Integrated Circuits
  • Microprocessors

20. Which programming language is known as the "mother of all languages"?

  • Assembly
  • C
  • BASIC
  • FORTRAN

21. What does "plug and play" refer to in computer systems?

  • Automatic detection and configuration of hardware devices
  • Simplified software installation
  • Enhanced internet connectivity
  • A gaming mode in operating systems

22. What is the term for software designed to harm or disrupt computers?

  • Malware
  • Firmware
  • Spyware
  • Hardware

23. Which of the following is an optical storage device?

  • DVD
  • SSD
  • HDD
  • RAM

24. What does SMTP stand for in email communication?

  • Standard Mail Transfer Platform
  • Secure Mail Transfer Protocol
  • Simple Mail Transfer Protocol
  • Simple Message Transfer Platform

25. What is the function of the Control Unit in a CPU?

  • Direct operations of the processor
  • Perform arithmetic calculations
  • Manage memory allocation
  • Store data permanently

26. What is an SSD commonly used for?

  • High-speed data storage
  • Processing large datasets
  • Network communication
  • Enhancing display resolution

27. Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for data encryption?

  • Presentation Layer
  • Application Layer
  • Transport Layer
  • Network Layer

28. What is the decimal equivalent of the binary number 1010?

  • 10
  • 8
  • 12
  • 15

29. What is the primary purpose of the motherboard in a computer system?

  • Connect and integrate all hardware components
  • Store data permanently
  • Run software applications
  • Secure the system from malware

30. Which file system is commonly used in Windows operating systems?

  • NTFS
  • ext4
  • FAT32
  • HFS+