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Quizzes > Computers & IT

IT quiz for beginners: Test your basic computer knowledge

Quick, free IT test for beginners. Instant results and simple explanations.

Editorial: Review CompletedCreated By: Benio KazuoUpdated Aug 26, 2025
Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration for IT quiz for beginners on a coral background

This IT quiz for beginners helps you check your basic computer knowledge across hardware, software, files, and the internet, with instant results and simple explanations. Take a few minutes to see where you stand, then try our information technology quiz, computer basics quiz, or basic it quiz for extra practice.

Which device is primarily responsible for performing calculations and executing instructions inside a computer?
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
SSD (Solid State Drive)
RAM (Random Access Memory)
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
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RAM is volatile memory that loses its data when power is turned off.
False
True
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Which of the following is an example of an operating system?
Windows 11
Adobe Photoshop
Google Chrome
Intel Core i7
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A file with the extension .jpg is typically what type of file?
Audio file
Executable file
Image file
Spreadsheet file
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Which connector is commonly used to connect a monitor to a computer for both audio and video?
RJ45
HDMI
3.5 mm jack
SATA
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HTTP encrypts data by default.
False
True
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Which network device forwards data between networks based on IP addresses?
Switch
Hub
Router
Access point
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Which file system is commonly used by Windows for internal drives?
APFS
FAT12
ext4
NTFS
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Which protocol translates domain names like example.com into IP addresses?
DHCP
FTP
SMTP
DNS
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The purpose of a firewall is to monitor and control network traffic according to security rules.
False
True
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Which backup method captures only files changed since the last full backup?
Archive bit reset
Differential backup
Snapshot
Full backup
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Which device converts digital signals to analog for display on older monitors and vice versa?
Router
Scanner
Adapter or converter (e.g., HDMI-to-VGA)
Power supply
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What does DNS cache flushing (e.g., ipconfig /flushdns) do on a local machine?
Changes your IP address permanently
Clears stored domain name lookups to force fresh resolution
Encrypts your web traffic
Blocks all pop-ups
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In binary, what is the value of the number 1010?
8 in decimal
12 in decimal
10 in decimal
5 in decimal
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Which command typically lists files and directories in a folder on Linux or macOS terminals?
copy
ls
dir
cls
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What is the primary purpose of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) for a desktop computer?
Expand storage capacity
Increase Wi‑Fi speed
Cool the CPU
Provide temporary power and surge protection during outages
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A switch operates at the network layer of the OSI model.
False
True
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Which statement best describes virtualization?
Compressing files to save space
Encrypting a folder
Running multiple virtual machines on one physical host
Defragmenting a hard drive
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Which is the safest practice for public charging stations to reduce data theft risk on mobile devices?
Use any available cable
Leave the device unlocked
Disable airplane mode
Use a power-only USB cable or a USB data blocker
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Which statement about version control systems (like Git) is correct?
They replace the operating system
They are used only for image editing
They defragment hard drives
They track changes to files over time and facilitate collaboration
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand Hardware Basics -

    Identify and describe essential computer components such as CPU, RAM, and storage to build a strong foundation in hardware concepts.

  2. Identify Software Types -

    Differentiate between system software, application programs, and utilities to grasp how various applications support computing tasks.

  3. Apply Troubleshooting Strategies -

    Practice simple diagnostic steps to resolve common tech issues, boosting your confidence in handling computer problems.

  4. Recall Key IT Terminology -

    Use accurate definitions for fundamental technology terms and acronyms encountered in our I.T. trivia quiz and beyond.

  5. Analyze Quiz Results -

    Interpret your performance on the basic IT quiz to identify areas for improvement and plan targeted learning steps.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Key hardware components -

    Learn the roles of the CPU (the "brain" of the PC), RAM for temporary data storage, and HDD/SSD for permanent files as defined by CompTIA A+ standards. For example, a 3.5 GHz quad-core CPU handles multitasking more smoothly due to parallel processing. Use the mnemonic "CRaS" (CPU, RAM, Storage) to quickly recall these essentials.

  2. Software categories -

    Understand that system software (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux) manages hardware resources, while application software (e.g., Microsoft Office, web browsers) lets users perform specific tasks as outlined by IEEE. Recognize freeware, shareware, and open-source licenses to choose the right tool for your needs. Use the shorthand "SA" (System vs. Application) as a quick mental checklist.

  3. Binary and data units -

    Master the binary system where 1 byte equals 8 bits, and learn metric prefixes: KB (10^3 bytes), MB (10^6 bytes), GB (10^9 bytes) following NIST guidelines. A handy mnemonic is "King Matt's Garden" for kilo, mega, giga to remember the scale order. Practice converting values, e.g., 2 MB = 2 × 10^6 bytes, to build real-world understanding.

  4. OSI model layers -

    Learn the seven OSI layers - Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, Application - as defined by Cisco Networking Academy. Remember "Please Do Not Throw Sausage Pizza Away" to recall Physical through Application in order. Note that IP addressing occurs at the Network layer, which is key when configuring routers and IP settings.

  5. Basic cybersecurity -

    Follow NIST guidelines to create strong passwords with at least 12 characters, mixing uppercase, lowercase, numbers, and symbols, or use memorable passphrases like "Blue$ky7Train". Always enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible to add an extra security layer on top of your credentials. A simple rule to remember is "length over complexity" for both security and memorability.

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