1.
An operating system manages hardware, runs applications, provides an interface for users, and stores, retrieves and manipulates files.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The given statement is true because an operating system indeed performs various functions. It manages the hardware resources of a computer, such as the processor, memory, and input/output devices. It also runs applications by allocating system resources and providing a platform for them to execute. Additionally, an operating system provides an interface for users to interact with the computer, whether through a graphical user interface or a command-line interface. Finally, it handles file management tasks, including storing, retrieving, and manipulating files on storage devices.
2.
Current versions of Windows use DOS as the operating system.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The statement is false because current versions of Windows do not use DOS as the operating system. While older versions of Windows, such as Windows 95 and Windows 98, were built on top of MS-DOS, modern versions of Windows, including Windows 10, use the Windows NT kernel as the operating system. DOS is no longer the primary operating system used by Windows.
3.
The kernel provides a way for the user to do such things as select music to burn to a CD, install an application, or change the wallpaper on the Windows desktop.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
The kernel does not directly provide a way for the user to select music to burn to a CD, install an application, or change the wallpaper on the Windows desktop. These tasks are typically performed by higher-level software applications that interact with the operating system, not the kernel itself. The kernel is responsible for managing the computer's resources, such as memory and hardware devices, and providing a platform for software applications to run on.
4.
The Windows desktop is itself a folder.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
The Windows desktop is considered a folder because it acts as a container for files and shortcuts. It allows users to easily access and organize their files and applications. Like any other folder, it can be customized and files can be added or removed from it. Additionally, the desktop folder can be accessed through the file explorer, just like any other folder on the computer. Therefore, the statement is true.
5.
System Information can be useful when strange error messages appear during startup.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
System Information can provide valuable insights into the hardware and software configuration of a computer system. When strange error messages occur during startup, knowing the system information can help identify any compatibility issues or conflicts that may be causing the errors. By analyzing the system information, users can troubleshoot and resolve the errors more effectively. Therefore, the statement is true as System Information can indeed be useful in such situations.
6.
A(n) ____ is software that controls a computer.
Correct Answer
B. Operating system
Explanation
An operating system is software that controls a computer. It manages computer hardware and software resources, provides services for computer programs, and allows users to interact with the computer. It is responsible for managing memory, processes, files, and devices, and ensures that different software applications can run smoothly on the computer. Therefore, an operating system is the correct answer as it is the software that controls the overall functioning of a computer.
7.
In 1986, ____ was introduced and quickly became the most popular OS among IBM computers and IBM-compatible computers using the Intel 8086 processors.
Correct Answer
A. MS-DOS
Explanation
MS-DOS was introduced in 1986 and quickly became the most popular operating system among IBM computers and IBM-compatible computers using the Intel 8086 processors. It provided a user-friendly command-line interface and support for various software applications, making it widely adopted by both individuals and businesses. Its success laid the foundation for future Microsoft operating systems, establishing Microsoft as a dominant player in the computer industry.
8.
A ____ interface is an interface that uses graphics as compared to a command-driven interface
Correct Answer
D. GrapHical user
Explanation
A graphical user interface is an interface that uses graphics instead of text or command-driven inputs. This means that the user interacts with the system through visual elements such as icons, buttons, and windows, making it more intuitive and user-friendly. Unlike a text or command-driven interface, which relies on typing commands or navigating through menus, a graphical user interface allows users to interact with the system by simply clicking or dragging elements on the screen.
9.
Vista has a new 3D user interface called the ____ user interface.
Correct Answer
B. Aero
Explanation
Aero is the correct answer because it is the new 3D user interface introduced in Windows Vista. It is known for its sleek and transparent design elements, giving the appearance of glass. The Aero interface includes features like transparent window borders, live taskbar thumbnails, and smooth animations, enhancing the overall visual experience for users.
10.
A(n) ____ is a low-end inexpensive laptop with a small 9- or 10-inch screen and no optical drive
Correct Answer
B. Netbook
Explanation
A netbook is a low-end inexpensive laptop with a small 9- or 10-inch screen and no optical drive. It is designed for basic tasks such as web browsing, email, and word processing. Netbooks are lightweight and portable, making them ideal for users who need a compact device for on-the-go use. They typically have limited processing power and storage capacity compared to traditional laptops, but they offer a cost-effective option for users who prioritize portability and affordability over high-performance capabilities.
11.
A ____ makes it possible to boot a computer into one of two installed OSs.
Correct Answer
C. Dual boot
Explanation
A dual boot allows a computer to boot into one of two installed operating systems. This means that the user can choose between two different operating systems, such as Windows and Linux, when starting up the computer. This is useful for individuals who need to use different operating systems for various purposes or who want to try out different systems without completely replacing their current one. A dual boot setup typically requires partitioning the hard drive to allocate space for each operating system and installing them separately.
12.
A(n) ____ is the portion of an OS that relates to the user and to applications.
Correct Answer
D. Shell
Explanation
The shell is the correct answer because it is the part of an operating system that interacts with the user and executes commands or programs. It provides a command-line interface or a graphical user interface (GUI) for users to interact with the operating system and run applications. The shell acts as an intermediary between the user and the operating system, allowing users to input commands or use a graphical interface to perform tasks and access system resources.
13.
The OS ____ is responsible for interacting with hardware.
Correct Answer
A. Kernel
Explanation
The kernel is responsible for interacting with hardware. The kernel is the core component of an operating system that manages the system's resources, including the hardware. It acts as a bridge between the hardware and the software, providing an interface for applications to access and utilize the hardware resources efficiently. The kernel handles tasks such as device management, memory management, and process scheduling, ensuring that the hardware is properly utilized and controlled.
14.
The ____ interface between the subsystems in user mode and the HAL.
Correct Answer
B. Executive services
Explanation
The executive services interface between the subsystems in user mode and the HAL. This suggests that the executive services play a crucial role in facilitating communication and coordination between the user mode subsystems and the HAL. They likely provide a set of high-level functions and services that allow the subsystems to interact with the underlying hardware and system resources efficiently.
15.
A ____ is a single task, such as the task of printing a file, that the process requests from the kernel
Correct Answer
D. Thread
Explanation
A thread is a single task, such as the task of printing a file, that the process requests from the kernel. Threads are lightweight and can be created within a process, allowing for parallel execution of multiple tasks within the same program. They share the same memory space and resources of the process, making communication and data sharing between threads efficient.
16.
____ are small programs stored on the hard drive that tell the computer how to communicate with a specific hardware device such as a printer, network card, or modem.
Correct Answer
B. BIOS
Explanation
Device drivers are small programs stored on the hard drive that tell the computer how to communicate with a specific hardware device such as a printer, network card, or modem. They act as a bridge between the operating system and the hardware, allowing the operating system to send instructions and receive data from the hardware. The BIOS, on the other hand, is a firmware that initializes the hardware components of the computer and provides basic input/output services. While the BIOS plays a crucial role in the computer's startup process, it is not specifically responsible for hardware communication like device drivers. Therefore, the correct answer is device drivers.
17.
The ____ is normally located at the bottom of the Windows desktop, displaying information about open programs and providing quick access to others.
Correct Answer
A. Taskbar
Explanation
The taskbar is a feature in the Windows operating system that is typically located at the bottom of the desktop. It displays information about open programs, such as their icons and names, and provides quick access to other programs and features. Users can click on the icons on the taskbar to switch between open programs or launch new ones. It also includes a notification area where users can see system notifications and access certain settings. Overall, the taskbar is an essential component of the Windows desktop that helps users navigate and manage their open programs efficiently.
18.
The ____ is usually on the right side of the taskbar and displays open services.
Correct Answer
C. System tray
Explanation
The system tray is usually on the right side of the taskbar and displays open services. It provides quick access to system functions and notifications, allowing users to easily manage and monitor various applications and processes running in the background.
19.
A(n) ____ is a program that runs in the background to support or serve Windows or an application
Correct Answer
D. Service
Explanation
A service is a program that runs in the background to support or serve Windows or an application. Services are typically responsible for performing specific tasks or providing specific functionality, such as managing network connections, handling printing jobs, or running scheduled tasks. They run independently of user interaction and can be started automatically when the system starts up. Services are essential for the smooth operation of an operating system or application, as they provide necessary background functionality without requiring constant user attention.
20.
A ____ is one or more characters following the last period in a filename, such as .exe, .txt, or .avi.
Correct Answer
B. File extension
Explanation
A file extension refers to one or more characters following the last period in a filename. It is used to indicate the type or format of a file, such as .exe for executable files, .txt for text files, or .avi for video files. The file extension helps the operating system and software programs identify and associate the correct application to open and handle the file.
21.
The ____ dialog box in Windows Vista appears each time a user attempts to perform an action that can be done only with administrative privileges.
Correct Answer
B. User Account Control
Explanation
The User Account Control dialog box in Windows Vista appears each time a user attempts to perform an action that can be done only with administrative privileges. This feature helps to prevent unauthorized changes to the system by prompting the user to confirm their actions and enter their administrative credentials. It enhances the security of the operating system by ensuring that only authorized users can make changes that could potentially affect the system's stability and integrity.
22.
Windows identifies file types primarily by the ____.
Correct Answer
C. File extension
Explanation
Windows identifies file types primarily by the file extension. A file extension is the part of a file name that comes after the period and indicates the type of file it is. For example, a file with the extension ".txt" is recognized as a text file by Windows. By examining the file extension, Windows can determine which program should be used to open the file and how to handle it.
23.
Windows offers two ways to sync files: ____.
Correct Answer
A. Briefcase and Offline Files
Explanation
Windows offers two ways to sync files: Briefcase and Offline Files. Briefcase allows users to create a copy of files and folders on a portable device or network location, and sync any changes made to the original files. Offline Files, on the other hand, allows users to access network files even when they are not connected to the network, by creating a local copy that can be synchronized with the network version when connected. Both Briefcase and Offline Files provide convenient ways to ensure that files are up-to-date and accessible across different devices and network conditions.
24.
From the ____ window, you can change the read-only, hidden, archive, and indexing attributes of the file.
Correct Answer
D. Properties
Explanation
From the "Properties" window, you can change the read-only, hidden, archive, and indexing attributes of the file. This window provides detailed information and options related to the selected file, allowing users to modify various attributes and settings. The "Properties" option is commonly found in the right-click menu of a file or folder and provides a convenient way to access and manage file properties.
25.
A(n) ____ is a list of items that is used to speed up a search.
Correct Answer
B. Index
Explanation
An index is a list of items that is used to speed up a search. It helps in improving the efficiency of searching by providing a reference to the location of specific data within a larger dataset. By creating an index, the search process can be expedited as it eliminates the need to scan the entire dataset. Instead, the index acts as a guide, pointing directly to the relevant data, resulting in faster retrieval times.
26.
An applet has a ____ file extension.
Correct Answer
C. .cpl
Explanation
An applet has a .cpl file extension.