Computer Fundamentals Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?

Manipulate data and control tasks (correct)

Manage peripheral components

Store data for future use

Present data and information

Which type of storage temporarily holds data and instructions for processing by the CPU?

Secondary storage

Read-Only Memory (ROM)

Cache memory

Random Access Memory (RAM) (correct)

Which of the following is NOT a type of primary storage?

External Hard Drive (correct)

Registers

Cache memory

Read-Only Memory (ROM)

What are the three interrelated factors to consider when deciding on hardware?

Appropriateness, speed, and cost Signup and view all the answers

Which storage type is designed to hold large amounts of data for extended periods?

Secondary storage Signup and view all the answers

What role does cache memory play in a computer system?

Temporarily stores frequently used data for faster access Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a characteristic of primary storage?

Stores data temporarily during processing Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of output technologies in a computer system?

Convert data into a usable form for users Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of secondary storage affects its data retrieval time compared to RAM?

It is nonvolatile. Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the CPU is responsible for controlling the flow of data?

Control Unit Signup and view all the answers

What is a key feature that has become increasingly important in personal computing?

Portability Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'clock speed' indicate in relation to a CPU?

The time it takes to complete a cycle Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes secondary storage from primary storage?

Secondary storage is cheaper. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) within a CPU?

Carrying out mathematical operations Signup and view all the answers

How is data transfer rate measured in RAM?

In megabits per second Signup and view all the answers

Which component measures the speed at which data can move across the bus?

Bus Speed Signup and view all the answers

What role does software play in relation to hardware?

It provides a set of instructions for hardware to perform tasks. Signup and view all the answers

Which function is NOT typically provided by an operating system?

Connecting devices to the internet. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of utility software?

To fix or modify the computer in some way. Signup and view all the answers

Cloud computing primarily reduces the need for what?

Local servers and on-site infrastructure. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of application software?

Spreadsheet program Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes programming software from utility software?

Programming software provides environments for development tasks. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes quantum computing?

It's expected to revolutionize computing with complex calculations. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of productivity software?

It enables users to efficiently complete office tasks. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary feature of mobile apps?

They are specifically designed to run on mobile devices. Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main advantages of using cloud computing?

It allows for access from any computer with Internet access. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a disadvantage of cloud computing?

It requires a stable Internet connection to function. Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a private cloud?

It ensures an organization has complete control over its data. Signup and view all the answers

Why are organizations considering private clouds despite concerns about data control?

They reduce the necessity to install and maintain software. Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant challenge of using cloud services?

Dependence on the cloud provider for service reliability. Signup and view all the answers

What trend is reflected in the increasing sales of smartphones compared to personal computers?

Mobile computing is becoming a dominant form of technology. Signup and view all the answers

What is cloud computing primarily about?

Accessing services and storage via the Internet. Signup and view all the answers

Which operating systems dominate the desktop market?

Windows, macOS, and Linux Signup and view all the answers

What is a common characteristic of graphical user interfaces (GUIs) today?

They utilize intuitive designs and touchscreen capabilities. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the Software as a Service (SaaS) model?

Cloud-based software provided on a subscription basis. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of open-source software?

MySQL Signup and view all the answers

What role does artificial intelligence (AI) play in modern software applications?

It enhances features like natural language processing and image recognition. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary benefit of using virtualization in organizations?

It reduces the need for physical servers to deliver necessary services. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of a Trojan virus?

A program disguised as legitimate software to spread malware. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes software piracy?

Distributing software without the manufacturer's explicit permission. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following represents a proper measure to protect against computer viruses?

Keep antivirus and antispyware software up-to-date. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a type of ransomware?

Program that demands payment for file access. Signup and view all the answers

What role does open-source software play in the software industry?

It allows users to view, modify, and distribute the software freely. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of worms as a type of computer virus?

To replicate and spread without user intervention. Signup and view all the answers

Which site is recommended for searching and downloading open-source software?

sourceforge.net Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 2: Hardware & Software Applications

This chapter focuses on hardware and software applications in computing systems.

Objectives

Current storage (measurements, types)
Peripheral components
Processing
System software (OS, NOS, utilities, viruses)
Security
Licensing considerations and ethics

Introduction

Changes in hardware and software reflect the continuous evolution of information systems, driven by advancements in technology and changing user needs.
These innovations have a profound impact on how people work, communicate, and interact with technology daily.

Hardware

Hardware consists of the physical equipment for input, processing, output, and computer system storage.
Decisions about hardware focus on appropriateness for the task, speed, and cost.

Components of Hardware

Central Processing Unit (CPU): Manipulates data and controls tasks performed by other components.
Primary storage: Temporarily stores data and program instructions during processing.
Secondary storage: Stores data and programs for future use.
Input technologies: Accept data and instructions, converting them for computer understanding.
Output technologies: Present data and information in a usable form for people.

Storage Measurement

Prefixes (kilo, mega, giga, tera, peta, exa, zetta, yotta) are used to represent the size of storage capacity.

Types of Primary Storage

Registers: Have the least capacity, storing limited instructions and data.
Cache memory: High-speed memory temporarily storing frequently used data blocks.
Random access memory (RAM): The primary storage holding software programs and data for processing.
Read-only memory (ROM): Contains critical instructions permanently stored.

Secondary Storage

Designed for extended data storage
Characteristics include nonvolatility allowing data to remain even without power, but it takes more time to retrieve compared to primary storage.
Secondary storage is typically cheaper than primary storage and can utilize a variety of storage media (e.g., hard drives, SSDs).

Peripheral Components

A peripheral device is an auxiliary device (e.g., mouse, keyboard, printer, headsets, etc.) that connects to and works with a computer system.

Processing

The core of a computer is the Central Processing Unit (CPU), akin to the “brain” of the device.
The CPU performs computations within the computer.
The CPU is a microprocessor made up of millions of microscopic transistors.

Parts of the CPU

The control unit sequentially accesses program instructions, decodes them, and controls data flow to/from the arithmetic logic unit (ALU).
The ALU performs mathematical operations.

Computer Speed

Components (CPU, motherboard, RAM, hard disk) contribute to computer speed.
Measured using units like GHz for Clock speed, MHz for Bus speed, MB/s for Data transfer rate, and ms for access time.

Other Computing Devices

Personal computers are general-purpose devices solving various problems.
Components previously mechanical have been integrated into other devices.
Definition and description of what defines a computer continues to change, emphasizing traits like portability.
Trends in personal computing include portable computers (e.g., laptops, notebooks), tablets (e.g., iPads), smartphones (evolving from cell phones) and integrated computing/internet of things (IoT).

Integrated Computing and Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT is a network of billions of devices connecting to the internet for data collection and sharing, often without human intervention.

The Commoditization of the Personal Computer

PCs, as commodities, have little difference between brands/manufacturers.
The primary factor controlling sales is price
Companies like Apple have employed strategies that differentiate their product line for higher revenue despite commoditization.

Changes in Hardware

Miniaturization and Portability: Hardware has become smaller and more portable. Devices such as tablets, and laptops have replaced traditional desktop computers for many tasks.
Increased Processing Power: Microprocessor technology advancements have enabled faster.
Connectivity: High-speed Internet and wireless networking (e.g., 4G, 5G) have enabled seamless connections, contributing to the IoT (Internet of Things).
Cloud Computing: Cloud computing provides on-demand computing through remote storage and reduces the need for physically owning and maintaining local servers and storage systems.
Quantum Computing: Represents an emerging technology that has potential for revolutionary computation, though still in early phases of development.

Software

Software is a set of instructions, data, or programs used to operate computers and execute tasks.
It tells the hardware what to do. Software created by developers via programming.

Operating Systems (OS)

Operating Systems (OS) manage the computer's hardware resources and provide a platform for software applications.

Application Software

Application software performs specific tasks (e.g., business, entertainment, productivity).

Productivity Software

Productivity software offers tools for workplace tasks (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, presentations).

Utility Software and Programming Software

Utility software enhances the computer (e.g., fixing problems, malware removal).
Programming software is used to create/produce software programs.

Network Operating System (NOS)

NOS runs on servers, handling data, users, security, applications, and network functions for shared file and printer access in networks.

Advantages and Disadvantages of NOS

Advantages: Centralized, stable servers; managed security; easily integrated new technology; remote access.
Disadvantages: High server costs; reliance on a central location; regular updates and maintenance.

Applications for the Enterprise

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems consolidate an organization's information for centralized control.
ERP systems utilize a central database to manage business processes across the entirety of an enterprise.

Mobile Applications

Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets have operating systems and applications
Mobile devices are smaller versions of personal computers.
Mobile apps are software designed for mobile devices.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing refers to applications, services, and data storage located on the internet controlled by third party providers. Cloud storage providers utilize massive servers and storage for this access.
Cloud computing allows users to utilize software and data storage on the internet. Common cloud computing services exist in daily life (E.g., emails like Gmail).

Cloud Computing Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages: No installation to maintain; available from different computers.
Disadvantages: Reliance on someone else’s computer; need for internet access to use it; reliance on a third-party service.

Cloud Computing Using a Private Cloud

Private Clouds: A cloud computing service where the cloud service provider provides server space for a specific organization, which allows them to manage their data storage more completely within their network.

Virtualization

Virtualization is using software to imitate other computers/devices.
Organizations use virtual machines (VMs) to reduce physical servers, lowering electricity, and other associated costs.

Open-Source Software

Open-source software makes source code available for anyone to copy, use, and modify.
Open-source software (e.g., Firefox browser, Linux OS, Apache server) have become common and popular across the digital world.

Computer Viruses

Computer viruses are malicious code designed to spread across devices and harm or steal data. They are a subset of malware characterized by their self-copying threats.

Examples of Computer Viruses

Worm viruses spread without user intervention.
Trojan viruses disguise themselves as legitimate programs to spread and damage systems.
Ransomware viruses encrypt user data and demand payment for decryption.

Computer Virus Protection

Utilize antivirus and firewall protection.
Keep antivirus software up-to-date.
Update operating systems regularly.
Avoid suspicious websites and downloads.

Software Licensing and Ethics

Making software copies without permission (piracy) is illegal.
The Business Software Alliance (BSA) works to stop piracy.
Software vendor piracy costs billions of dollars yearly and often comes from current and past off-ending companies' employees.

Software Licensing and Ethical Concerns

Companies can protect their software investments by copyrighting their software, granting exclusive legal rights for reproduction and sale.
Managing software assets (licensing agreements) becomes more challenging for IT managers.

Personal Information Security

Keep software up-to-date.
Install and maintain antivirus software.
Develop and employ strong, unique passwords.
Be vigilant about public Wi-Fi connections and suspicious links/attachments.
Back up data regularly.

Changes in Software

Operating systems (e.g., Windows, MacOS, Linux) have evolved significantly, often dominating specific markets.
User interfaces have become more intuitive (e.g., graphical user interfaces (GUI), touchscreens, and voice assistants).
SaaS (software as a service) is gaining popularity, providing cloud-based applications on a subscription basis.
Open-source software has widespread adoption (e.g., Linux, Apache, MySQL).
AI and machine learning are increasingly used in software applications (e.g., natural language processing, image recognition).
Cybersecurity is becoming more sophisticated to address advanced threats. Mobile apps have transformed how people use mobile devices.

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Description

Test your knowledge of the key components and functions of computer systems in this quiz. You'll answer questions about the Central Processing Unit (CPU), types of storage, and the characteristics that define primary and secondary storage. This quiz is perfect for anyone studying computer science fundamentals.