Sharpen your general IT knowledge with this beginner-friendly technology quiz. Explore questions covering basic computer history, hardware, and foundational IT concepts ideal for anyone curious about technology and computer science.
Which was the world's first computer virus, created in the early 1970s as an experimental program on ARPANET?
Explanation: Creeper is recognized as the world's first computer virus, designed as an experimental program to demonstrate self-replication and movement between computers. ILLOVEYOU, Melissa, and Brain were all significant viruses, but they appeared much later in history, affecting personal computers and networks rather than early networks like ARPANET. Only Creeper holds the distinction of being the very first.
What was the name of the world's first search engine developed in 1990 to index FTP files?
Explanation: Archie was developed as the first search engine, specifically designed to index FTP archives and help users locate files. Veronica and Spider are similarly early internet search tools, but they were created after Archie. AltaVisa is a misspelling of AltaVista, a popular search engine from the mid-1990s but not the first. Only Archie fits the question accurately.
In computer terminology, what does the abbreviation RAM stand for?
Explanation: RAM stands for random access memory, which is a type of volatile memory used to store data that is actively being used by the computer. Read-only memory is abbreviated as ROM and serves different functions. Ready available memory is not a standard technical term, and rapid arithmetic module is unrelated to memory concepts. Only random access memory correctly defines RAM.
Which type of software is primarily used to create, edit, and format text documents such as letters or reports?
Explanation: A word processor is designed for text-based document creation, editing, and formatting. A spreadsheet is mainly for organizing numbers and calculations, not text documents. A database is for storing and managing structured information, and a browser is used to access content on the internet. Only a word processor matches the described use.
What does an image of a small trash bin or recycle symbol on a computer typically represent?
Explanation: Icons showing a trash bin or recycle symbol commonly refer to deleted items where files are placed before permanent removal. The print queue shows documents waiting to be printed, saved files are stored in folders, and network connection icons usually display links or signal strength. Only deleted items relate directly to the trash or recycle imagery.
What is the main function of a computer monitor in a desktop system?
Explanation: The primary function of the monitor is to display the visual output generated by the computer's graphics system. Storing information is the job of storage devices like hard drives, processing data is performed by the CPU, and generating power is handled by the power supply unit. Only displaying visual output accurately describes a monitor's main task.
Which of the following is considered a computer peripheral device?
Explanation: A printer is a common peripheral device because it connects externally to a computer to provide output. The processor, motherboard, and RAM chip are all internal components critical for the computer’s operation, not peripherals. A peripheral operates externally to expand a computer's capabilities, which fits only the printer here.
Which digits are used in the binary number system commonly used in computing?
Explanation: The binary system is based solely on the digits 0 and 1, which are the fundamental building blocks for computer data. The digits 1 and 2 or 0 and 9 belong to decimal systems, while A and B are used in hexadecimal notation, not binary. Only 0 and 1 are employed in the binary system.
Which statement best describes the role of an operating system on a computer?
Explanation: An operating system's primary role is to manage hardware and software resources and provide essential services for applications. Creating digital images is performed by graphic software, increasing internet speed is managed by networking equipment, and antivirus scanning is the domain of specialized security software. Only resource management correctly defines the OS’s key responsibility.
What is the main function of a USB port on computers and electronic devices?
Explanation: A USB port is primarily used to connect devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, or external drives to a computer. Displaying high-definition video is managed by special video ports, running operating system updates is a software function, and battery life is unrelated to USB ports. Only connecting peripherals is directly linked to USB functionality.