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Quizzes > Computers & Technology > Computers & IT

Master Basic Computer Terminology - Take the Quiz Now!

Ready to Ace This Computer Basics Quiz? Test Your Computer Terminology Knowledge!

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
Paper art illustration of keyboard mouse monitor gears on coral background for free basic computer terminology quiz

This quiz helps you check your grasp of basic computer terminology and pick up key facts as you play. Answer quick questions on CPU, RAM, files, and more, then see your score and spot gaps to fix. Need a refresher? Scan this handy terms list or use the short definitions guide as you practice.

What does CPU stand for?
Computer Processing Unit
Central Peripheral Unit
Central Programming Unit
Central Processing Unit
The CPU is the main chip that executes instructions and processes data. It acts as the brain of the computer, coordinating hardware components and operations. Without the CPU, a computer cannot perform tasks or run applications. These capabilities make the CPU one of the most critical parts of any computing device.
What is the primary function of RAM?
Process graphics
Boost network speed
Permanently store files
Store data temporarily while a computer is running
RAM is a type of volatile memory used by the computer to store data and instructions that are actively in use. Because it is much faster than other storage, the CPU can quickly read and write information in RAM. However, its contents are lost when the power is turned off. RAM is essential for smooth multitasking and overall system performance.
What does HDD stand for?
Hard Data Disk
High Definition Drive
Hybrid Disk Drive
Hard Disk Drive
A hard disk drive uses spinning magnetic platters to store and retrieve digital data. It is one of the most common types of non-volatile storage in computers. HDDs can offer large capacities at a relatively low cost per gigabyte. However, they are generally slower than solid-state solutions due to their mechanical nature.
What does GPU stand for?
General Purpose Unit
General Processing Unit
Graphics Performance Unit
Graphics Processing Unit
A graphics processing unit is a specialized processor designed to accelerate the rendering of images and video. GPUs offload graphical tasks from the CPU, making them crucial for gaming, video editing, and scientific computation. Modern GPUs support parallel processing for complex calculations. Their performance improvements have been vital in fields like machine learning.
What is an IP address?
A file path
An email identifier
A type of processor
A unique numerical label assigned to each device on a network
An IP address is a unique numerical label assigned to devices on a computer network. It enables devices to send and receive information over the internet or local networks. IP addresses follow specific formats such as IPv4 or IPv6. Correct addressing is essential for proper routing of data.
What does HTTP stand for?
Hypertext Transfer Protocol
Hyper Transfer Text Process
Hypermedia Transfer Program
Hyperlink Text Transmission Protocol
The Hypertext Transfer Protocol is the foundation of data communication for the World Wide Web. It defines how messages are formatted and transmitted between clients and servers. HTTP relies on a request-response model for fetching resources. It is stateless, meaning each command is executed independently.
What is the function of an operating system?
Control web pages
Compile code
Manage hardware and provide a user interface
Route network traffic
An operating system manages a computer's hardware resources and provides services for applications. It acts as an intermediary between user applications and physical hardware components. Functions include process scheduling, memory management, and I/O operations. A user-friendly OS also offers graphical interfaces and utilities.
What is the purpose of a motherboard?
Provide power to peripherals
Store data permanently
Cool system components
It houses the CPU, memory, and connectors for other hardware
The motherboard is the main printed circuit board in a computer that connects all components. It houses the CPU socket, memory slots, and expansion interfaces for GPUs, storage, and peripherals. The motherboard also contains the system chipset and BIOS/UEFI firmware. It is critical for system stability and upgrade compatibility.
What is BIOS?
Software for file management
Firmware interface between hardware and OS that initializes components on boot
A network protocol
An antivirus utility
The BIOS is firmware stored on a motherboard chip that initializes hardware components during the boot process. It performs hardware checks and loads the operating system bootloader. BIOS settings can be configured to control hardware behavior. Modern systems may use UEFI, which offers more features and security.
What is the key difference between SSD and HDD?
SSD stores data on optical discs; HDD uses magnetic platters
SSD is a type of RAM; HDD is long-term memory
SSD has higher capacity than HDD for the same price
SSD uses flash memory chips with no moving parts; HDD uses spinning magnetic disks
Solid-state drives use flash memory chips to store data without any moving parts. Hard disk drives rely on spinning magnetic platters and mechanical read/write heads. SSDs are generally faster, more durable, and energy-efficient than HDDs. However, HDDs often offer higher capacities at a lower cost per gigabyte.
What is DNS?
Direct Network Service
Data Name Syntax
Dynamic Name Server
Domain Name System that translates domain names to IP addresses
The Domain Name System translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses. It is a hierarchical and decentralized naming system for resources on the internet. DNS servers work together to resolve queries and direct traffic to the correct web servers. Proper DNS configuration is crucial for website accessibility and email routing.
What is a URL?
Universal Recoder Locator
Uniform Resource Locator, the address of a web resource
Universal Resource Link
Uniform Requisition Link
A Uniform Resource Locator specifies the address of resources on the internet. It includes the protocol (such as http:// or https://), domain name, and optional path or parameters. URLs enable browsers to locate and retrieve web pages, images, and other content. They are fundamental to web navigation and hyperlinks.
What is a GUI?
Graphical User Interface with icons and windows
Geographic User Identity
Group User Interaction
General Utility Interface
A graphical user interface allows users to interact with electronic devices through visuals like windows, icons, and menus. It simplifies tasks by providing intuitive controls rather than command-line inputs. GUIs are common in modern operating systems and applications for ease of use. They often support input devices like a mouse or touchscreen.
What is the primary purpose of a compiler?
Search for errors in documentation
Manage hardware resources
Translate source code into machine code before execution
Execute code line by line
A compiler reads source code written in a high-level programming language and translates it into machine code. This machine code can be executed directly by the CPU. Compilers also perform optimizations to improve performance. They differ from interpreters, which translate and execute code line by line at runtime.
What does LAN stand for?
Large Area Network
Local Access Node
Light Amplification Network
Local Area Network
A Local Area Network connects devices within a limited geographical area, such as a home or office. LANs typically use Ethernet or Wi-Fi technology. They allow resource sharing like files, printers, and internet connections. LAN performance and security depend on proper configuration and hardware.
What is virtualization in computing?
Compressing files
Creating a virtual version of hardware or resources
Simulating network traffic
Connecting to a VPN
Virtualization involves creating a virtual version of hardware resources, operating systems, or network components. It enables multiple virtual machines to run on a single physical host. This improves resource utilization, scalability, and isolation of workloads. Virtualization is foundational for modern cloud computing and server consolidation.
What is the kernel in an operating system?
The graphical interface
Core component that manages system resources and hardware communication
A type of virus
The bootloader
The kernel is the core component of an operating system that manages system resources and facilitates communication between hardware and software. It handles process scheduling, memory management, and device I/O operations. Different kernels, like monolithic or microkernels, affect system performance and modularity. The kernel's stability is critical for overall system reliability.
What does DHCP do?
Translates domain names
Dynamically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network
Encrypts data
Manages DNS entries
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol automatically assigns IP addresses and other network settings to devices on a network. It simplifies administration by reducing manual configuration. DHCP servers maintain pools of IP addresses and lease them to clients. Proper DHCP setup ensures efficient use of network address space.
What is firmware?
Application software
A high-level programming language
Software programmed into read-only memory for device control
A type of virus
Firmware is low-level software embedded in hardware devices to provide control and functionality. It resides in non-volatile memory such as ROM or flash storage. Firmware bridges the gap between hardware and higher-level software. Updating firmware can fix bugs and add new features.
What does RAID stand for?
Random Access of Indexed Data
Read And Inject Data
Redundant Array of Independent Disks
Rapid Allocation of Internal Disk
Redundant Array of Independent Disks combines multiple physical disk drives into a single logical unit for redundancy, performance, or both. Different RAID levels offer trade-offs between speed, data protection, and capacity. RAID can be implemented through hardware controllers or software. It is widely used in servers and storage systems.
What is NAT in networking?
Network Authentication Tool
Native Application Tunneling
Network Address Translation, rewrites IP addresses in packet headers
Not a Terminal
Network Address Translation modifies network address information in IP packet headers to map private addresses to a public address. NAT allows multiple devices on a local network to share a single public IP address. It provides a level of security by hiding internal network structure. NAT is common in home routers and enterprise firewalls.
What is a subnet mask?
A number that divides an IP address into network and host portions
A type of encryption
A firewall setting
A DNS record
A subnet mask defines which portion of an IP address refers to the network and which part refers to the host. It is used in IP addressing to segment networks into subnets. By applying a bitwise AND operation, devices determine if a destination is on the same subnet. Correct subnetting optimizes network performance and security.
What is the difference between a bit and a byte?
A byte equals 8 bits; a bit is a single binary digit
A byte is 16 bits and a bit is 2 bits
Both are interchangeable terms for data size
A bit equals 8 bytes; a byte is a single binary digit
A bit is the smallest unit of data in computing, representing a single binary value (0 or 1). A byte consists of 8 bits and is the standard unit for measuring data size. Bytes can represent characters in encoding systems like ASCII. Understanding this difference is fundamental to data storage and memory calculations.
What is UEFI?
Unified Ethernet Firmware Implementation
Universal Encoding File Interface
Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, modern firmware replacing BIOS
User Environment Interface
Unified Extensible Firmware Interface is a modern replacement for legacy BIOS firmware. UEFI supports larger hard drives, faster boot times, and enhanced security features like Secure Boot. It uses a modular design and can run drivers and applications before the OS loads. UEFI has become the standard on most new PCs.
Which OSI model layer is responsible for end-to-end communication and error checking?
Network layer (Layer 3)
Application layer (Layer 7)
Data Link layer (Layer 2)
Transport layer (Layer 4)
The transport layer is the fourth layer of the OSI model and is responsible for reliable end-to-end communication. It manages data segmentation, flow control, error detection, and correction. Protocols like TCP and UDP operate at this layer. It ensures that data is delivered accurately and in sequence.
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Study Outcomes

  1. Understand Basic Computer Terms -

    Learn definitions for essential computer terminology to build a solid tech vocabulary foundation.

  2. Differentiate Hardware and Software -

    Recognize and categorize common hardware components versus software applications with clarity.

  3. Identify Key IT Terminology -

    Spot important basic IT terminology used in everyday computing and tech support contexts.

  4. Apply Terms in Context -

    Use correct computer terms in practical scenarios to boost your tech communication skills.

  5. Assess Your Knowledge -

    Measure your grasp of basic computer terminology through targeted quiz questions and instant feedback.

  6. Enhance Tech Confidence -

    Build confidence in discussing computer basics and feel prepared to tackle more advanced IT topics.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Hardware vs. Software Distinction -

    Understanding basic computer terminology starts with distinguishing hardware (physical components like CPU and RAM) from software (programs and operating systems that run on hardware). A handy mnemonic is "Hardware you can Handle, Software you can't See."

  2. Core Input, Output, and Storage Devices -

    Review key terms like input devices (keyboard, mouse), output devices (monitor, printer), and storage (HDD, SSD, cloud). Remember: "I-O-S" covers everything from entering data to saving files, a concept reinforced in most reputable university IT curricula.

  3. Operating System Fundamentals -

    An operating system (OS) like Windows, macOS, or Linux acts as the bridge between hardware and applications. Think "OS = Organizer & Supervisor," a definition echoed in official Microsoft and IEEE documentation for basic IT terminology.

  4. Networking Basics: IP and Protocols -

    In your computer terminology quiz, know that an IP address (IPv4: four octets, e.g., 192.168.0.1) uniquely identifies devices on a LAN or WAN. The mnemonic "People In Protocol" helps you recall core protocols - TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP - cited in Cisco's networking guides.

  5. Common File Types and Extensions -

    Build your computer terms list by memorizing extensions like .docx (Word), .pdf (Adobe), .jpg/.png (images), and .mp4 (video). A simple trick is "DJP Media" (Document, JPEG, PDF) to boost retention for your computer basics quiz prep.

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