MCQs on Computer Fundamentals

[Set - 3]

1. Which type of computer architecture uses a single processor to perform all tasks?

A) Parallel Architecture
B) Distributed Architecture
C) Single Processor Architecture
D) Multiprocessor Architecture

Correct Answer: C) Single Processor Architecture
Explanation: Single Processor Architecture refers to a system where a single CPU performs all the computational tasks. It contrasts with multi-processor architectures where multiple CPUs work together.

2. What is the primary function of a computer's "BIOS"?

A) To manage the computer’s operating system after booting
B) To initialize hardware and load the operating system
C) To execute high-level software applications
D) To control the computer’s network connections

Correct Answer: B) To initialize hardware and load the operating system
Explanation: The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware that initializes and tests hardware components during startup and provides the necessary instructions to load the operating system.

3. In computing, what does the term “gigabyte” refer to?

A) A measure of network bandwidth capacity
B) A unit of digital storage equal to approximately one billion bytes
C) A measure of processing speed in central processors
D) A unit of electrical power used by computer systems

Correct Answer: B) A unit of digital storage equal to approximately one billion bytes
Explanation: A gigabyte is a standard unit of digital storage commonly used to measure the capacity of storage devices or memory, equivalent to 1,024 megabytes or approximately one billion bytes.

4. Which component of a computer system is used to temporarily store data that is actively being used?

A) Hard Disk Drive
B) Optical Drive
C) RAM
D) ROM

Correct Answer: C) RAM
Explanation: RAM (Random Access Memory) is used to temporarily store data and instructions that are currently being used by the CPU for processing.

5. What is the purpose of a computer’s "cache memory"?

A) To permanently store large amounts of data
B) To execute and manage background software tasks
C) To temporarily store frequently accessed data for quick retrieval
D) To provide backup storage in case of hardware failure

Correct Answer: C) To temporarily store frequently accessed data for quick retrieval
Explanation: Cache memory is a high-speed storage area that temporarily holds frequently accessed data and instructions, reducing access time and improving overall system performance.

6. Which of the following is a characteristic of a "mainframe computer"?

A) Designed for personal use by individuals
B) Specializes in graphics and gaming performance
C) Handles large-scale data processing for multiple users
D) Operates without the need for external storage devices

Correct Answer: C) Handles large-scale data processing for multiple users
Explanation: Mainframe computers are powerful systems designed to process and manage vast amounts of data, supporting multiple users and applications simultaneously, typically in enterprise environments.

7. Which type of software is designed to help users perform specific tasks like word processing or spreadsheet management?

A) System Software
B) Utility Software
C) Application Software
D) Firmware

Correct Answer: C) Application Software
Explanation: Application software is designed to help users perform specific tasks, such as word processing, spreadsheet management, or graphic design. Examples include Microsoft Word and Excel.

8. Which type of software helps in detecting and removing viruses from a computer?

A) Operating System
B) Utility Software
C) Application Software
D) Firmware

Correct Answer: B) Utility Software
Explanation: Utility software includes programs designed to manage and maintain a computer system. Antivirus software is a type of utility software that helps detect and remove viruses and malware.

9. What does the term “bandwidth” refer to in networking?

A) The speed of a computer’s processor
B) The capacity of a network to transmit data
C) The size of a storage device
D) The amount of RAM in a computer

Correct Answer: B) The capacity of a network to transmit data
Explanation: Bandwidth refers to the maximum capacity of a network to transmit data over a connection, measured in bits per second (bps). It determines how much data can be transferred in a given time period.

10. What is the function of an “integrated circuit” (IC) in modern computers?

A) To provide external storage for computer files
B) To enable the computer to connect to the internet
C) To perform electronic functions within a compact chip
D) To supply power to all hardware components

Correct Answer: C) To perform electronic functions within a compact chip
Explanation: An integrated circuit (IC) is a small semiconductor chip that contains a set of electronic circuits, enabling it to perform complex functions like computation, data storage, and signal processing efficiently and compactly.

11. Which type of computer system is designed for use by individual users?

A) Mainframe
B) Supercomputer
C) Minicomputer
D) Microcomputer

Correct Answer: A) Uniform Resource Locator
Explanation: URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator. It is the address used to access resources on the internet, such as web pages and files.

12. What type of memory is used for permanent storage of data that cannot be modified by the user?

A) RAM
B) ROM
C) Cache Memory
D) Hard Drive

Correct Answer: B) ROM
Explanation: ROM (Read-Only Memory) is used for permanent storage of data and instructions that cannot be modified by the user. It contains the firmware necessary for the computer’s startup process.

13. Which type of storage device uses flash memory to store data?

A) Hard Disk Drive
B) Solid State Drive
C) Optical Drive
D) Tape Drive

Correct Answer: B) Solid State Drive
Explanation: A Solid State Drive (SSD) uses flash memory to store data. Unlike hard disk drives, SSDs have no moving parts and offer faster data access and improved durability.

14. What is an example of a “peripheral device”?

A) CPU
B) RAM
C) Monitor
D) Motherboard

Correct Answer: C) Monitor
Explanation: A peripheral device is an external device connected to a computer, such as a monitor, keyboard, or printer. It expands the computer’s functionality and user interaction.

15. What does “backup” refer to in computing?

A) The process of copying and storing data to prevent loss
B) The process of deleting unnecessary files
C) The process of increasing the speed of the computer
D) The process of installing new software

Correct Answer: A) The process of copying and storing data to prevent loss
Explanation: Backup refers to the process of copying and storing data to protect against data loss due to hardware failure, accidental deletion, or other issues.

16. Which type of computer memory is non-volatile and can be electrically erased and reprogrammed?

A) Hard Disk Drive
B) Random Access Memory
C) Flash Memory
D) Cache Memory

Correct Answer: C) Flash Memory
Explanation: Flash memory is a type of non-volatile memory that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed. It is commonly used in USB drives and SSDs.

17. Which type of computer system is optimized for handling complex calculations and simulations?

A) Personal Computer
B) Workstation
C) Mainframe Computer
D) Supercomputer

Correct Answer: D) Supercomputer
Explanation: Supercomputers are designed for handling complex calculations and simulations at extremely high speeds, used for tasks such as climate modeling and scientific research.

18. What is the primary function of the operating system's kernel?

A) To manage user interface customization and settings
B) To connect application software with hardware resources
C) To store files and organize directories for user access
D) To optimize the speed of internet and network usage

Correct Answer: B) To connect application software with hardware resources
Explanation: The kernel is the core of an operating system, responsible for managing communication between software and hardware, including memory, processes, and device control.

19. Which device converts digital data into analog signals for transmission over a telephone line?

A) Router
B) Modem
C) Switch
D) Network Interface Card

Correct Answer: B) Modem
Explanation: A modem converts digital data from a computer into analog signals for transmission over telephone lines and converts incoming analog signals back into digital data.

20. Which type of computer architecture involves multiple CPUs working together on a single task?

A) Single Processor Architecture
B) Networked Systems
C) Distributed Computing
D) Parallel Processing

Correct Answer: D) Parallel Processing
Explanation: Parallel processing involves multiple CPUs working together to execute a single task or set of tasks simultaneously, improving processing speed and efficiency.

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