ICT Computing Essentials Practice Test A

Which of the following is a definition of software?

• The components of a computer: keyboard, mouse and monitor.

• The programs or instructions that tell the computer what tasks to perform.

• The information that a computer processes such as text, numbers, sound, video, images and files.

• The person who enters the data that is to be processed and views the information.

Answer explanation

Software is what makes a computer useful. Computers allow us to read email, write a letter or watch a movie. This is because of the software running on the computer.

Which of the following functions as the “brain” of the computer?

• Hard drive

• Motherboard

• Central processing unit

• Power supply

Answer explanation

The central processing unit (CPU) is often called the “brain” of a computer. Its purpose is to perform the calculations and processing for the computer.

Sally wants to log on to the network so she can access her files and the printer. Which of the following will she use to enter her username and password?

• Terminal

• Mainframe

• Server

• Client

Answer explanation

The client is the end user’s computer. A client sends requests to the server.

Ken wants to connect a set of speakers and a microphone to his computer. Which type of connector does he need to use?

• RJ-45

• RJ-11

• Audio

• HDMI

Answer explanation

Speakers and microphones connect to audio ports located on the front, rear or side of the system unit.

You opened a folder on your system that contains numerous files, all with file name extensions of .jpg, .png and .gif. What file types are contained in your folder?

• Graphics files

• Video files

• Audio files

• Webpage files

Answer explanation

Some graphic file extensions are .jpg, .png, .gif.

Which device operates as an Input function?

• Keyboard

• Monitor

• Projector

• Speakers

Answer explanation

An input device is used to enter data into a computer

A keyboard is used to enter text and numbers into a computer.

Which layer of the OSI is the first to receive the packets from a sending computer?

• Physical layer

• Transport layer

• Data Link layer

• Application layer

Answer explanation

OSI reference model in action. The physical layer is the last layer that packets go through on the sending computer and the first layer on the receiving computer.

Which term refers to application software that is stored on servers and runs on a browser?

• File management

• Email client

• Cloud computing

• Crowdsourcing

Answer explanation

Today cloud computing has become the way for users to complete tasks. Cloud-based software is installed on a server that is located on the Internet. A user only needs a browser and an Internet connection to access the software. An advantage to cloud computing is that software updates happen behind the scenes. Some common cloud-based applications include Google Docs, Google Slides, Office 365, Gmail or Outlook.com.

Which type of software helps with computer maintenance?

• Device drivers 

• Operating systems

• Application software

• Utility software

Answer explanation

Utility software is focused on helping maintain the computer. An operating system includes some utility software.

Molly is using her smartphone to scan the prices of items she is buying. This will allow her to use the digital checkout system. What function is her smartphone performing?

• Processing

• Output

• Input

• Storage

Answer explanation

An input device is used to enter data into a computer. It is the first event in the Information Processing Cycle. Without input the computer will not know what the user wants to do.