General Operating System Trivia Quiz!
An operating system is one of the most important components of a computer. There are different types of operating systems in use, and the general trivia quiz below is perfect for testing out just how much you understand about their use in a computer. Give it a shot and get to refresh your understanding. All the best, and keep reading!
Questions and Answers
- 1.
A ____________ is a set of data structures that usually resides on part of a disk and that holds directories of files.
- A.
Filesystems
- B.
Subdirectory
- C.
Directory
- D.
Access Control List
Correct Answer
A. FilesystemsExplanation
A filesystem is a set of data structures that usually resides on part of a disk and holds directories of files. It provides a way for organizing and storing files in a hierarchical structure. It manages how files are stored, accessed, and organized on a storage device such as a hard drive or SSD. Filesystems also handle tasks such as file naming, file permissions, and file metadata. They are essential for the efficient and secure management of files on a computer system.Rate this question:
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- 2.
A ____________ structure frequently takes the shape of a pyramid.
- A.
Family
- B.
Directory
- C.
Hierarchical
- D.
Root
Correct Answer
C. HierarchicalExplanation
A hierarchical structure frequently takes the shape of a pyramid because it is organized in a way where there are different levels or tiers, with each level being subordinate to the one above it. This creates a pyramid-like shape, with the highest level at the top and the lower levels branching out below it. This type of structure is commonly used in organizations, systems, and relationships where there is a clear chain of command or authority.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The _______ is always at the top of a hierarchical structure.
- A.
Tree
- B.
Root
- C.
Branch
- D.
Parent
Correct Answer
B. RootExplanation
In a hierarchical structure, the root is always at the top. The root serves as the main or starting point of the structure, from which all other elements or nodes branch out. It is the foundation or base of the hierarchy, providing support and organizing the entire structure. Therefore, the root is the correct answer as it consistently occupies the topmost position in a hierarchical arrangement.Rate this question:
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- 4.
Every file has a ______________.
- A.
Name
- B.
ID
- C.
Extension
- D.
Filename
Correct Answer
D. FilenameExplanation
The term "filename" refers to the name of a file, which is used to identify and distinguish it from other files. It is a common practice to assign a unique and descriptive name to each file, allowing users to easily recognize and locate specific files within a file system. The filename often includes a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols, and it may also include an extension to indicate the file type.Rate this question:
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- 5.
_______________ give the shell and other programs information about you and your preferences.
- A.
Startup Files
- B.
Setting Files
- C.
Preference files
- D.
Essential Files
Correct Answer
A. Startup FilesExplanation
Startup files are used to give the shell and other programs information about the user and their preferences. These files are executed when a user logs in and contain commands and settings that customize the user's environment. They can include configurations for the shell, environment variables, aliases, and other settings that the user wants to apply every time they start a session. By using startup files, users can conveniently set up their preferred environment and ensure that it is consistently applied whenever they log in.Rate this question:
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- 6.
Command-line _______ dictates the ordering and separation of the elements on a command line.
- A.
Order
- B.
Syntax
- C.
Name
- D.
Commands
Correct Answer
B. SyntaxExplanation
The term "command-line syntax" refers to the specific rules and structure that must be followed when entering commands on a command line interface. It dictates the proper ordering and separation of the elements, such as command names, options, and arguments, to ensure that the command is executed correctly.Rate this question:
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- 7.
An ________ is an argument that modifies the effects of a command.
- A.
Token
- B.
Option
- C.
Special Argument
- D.
Command
Correct Answer
B. OptionExplanation
An option is an argument that modifies the effects of a command. Options provide additional functionality or customization to a command by allowing the user to specify different settings or parameters. They are typically used to tailor the behavior of a command according to the user's requirements or preferences. Options can be specified alongside the command to alter its default behavior and achieve specific outcomes.Rate this question:
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- 8.
To kill a line you must press _____________.
- A.
Control+H
- B.
Control+U
- C.
Control+W
- D.
Control+D
Correct Answer
B. Control+UExplanation
To kill a line, you must press Control+U. This key combination is commonly used in text editors and command line interfaces to delete the entire line of text that the cursor is currently on. By pressing Control+U, you can quickly remove a line of text without having to manually select and delete it.Rate this question:
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- 9.
A ________ is the execution of a command by Linux.
- A.
Process
- B.
Executable
- C.
Alpha
- D.
Path
Correct Answer
A. ProcessExplanation
In Linux, a process refers to the execution of a command or program. It is an instance of a running program that has its own memory space and resources. Linux operates on a multitasking environment, allowing multiple processes to run concurrently. Therefore, a process is the correct answer as it accurately describes the execution of a command in Linux.Rate this question:
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- 10.
What feature prevents you from overwriting already existing files?
- A.
Slobber
- B.
Bobber
- C.
Noclobbler
- D.
Corn on the Cobber
Correct Answer
C. NoclobblerExplanation
The feature that prevents you from overwriting already existing files is "Noclobbler". This feature ensures that when you try to save a file with the same name as an existing file, it will not overwrite the existing file but instead prompt you to choose a different name or location for the new file. This helps to prevent accidental loss of data and allows you to manage your files more effectively.Rate this question:
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- 11.
A ______ is a pointer to a file.
- A.
Link
- B.
Filter
- C.
Switch
- D.
Pipe
Correct Answer
A. LinkExplanation
A link is a pointer to a file. It is used to establish a connection or reference between different files or directories. It allows users to access or navigate to a specific file or directory location without having to physically move or copy the file. By using a link, users can easily organize and manage their files by creating shortcuts or references to the original file.Rate this question:
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- 12.
________ changes permissions on a file or directory.
- A.
Setmod
- B.
Permish
- C.
Echo
- D.
Chmod
Correct Answer
D. ChmodExplanation
Chmod is the correct answer because it is a command used in Unix-like operating systems to change the permissions of a file or directory. It allows the user to modify the read, write, and execute permissions for the owner, group, and others. This command is commonly used to control access to files and directories, ensuring the appropriate level of security and privacy.Rate this question:
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- 13.
Where are temporary files stored?
- A.
/temp
- B.
/tmp
- C.
/usr/tmp
- D.
Tmp
Correct Answer
B. /tmpExplanation
Temporary files are stored in the "/tmp" directory. This directory is commonly used by operating systems and applications to store temporary files that are only needed for a short period of time. It is a common practice to store temporary files in this directory because it is accessible to all users and can be easily cleaned up by the system. Other options listed (/temp, /usr/tmp, and Tmp) are not standard directories for storing temporary files.Rate this question:
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- 14.
________ is where the Variable data is stored
- A.
/vari
- B.
/var
- C.
/varbl
- D.
/vada
Correct Answer
B. /varExplanation
The correct answer is "/var" because in most computer systems, the "/var" directory is used to store variable data. This directory contains files that are expected to change in size and content as the system is running. It typically includes log files, temporary files, and other data that is not critical for the system to function properly.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Cd does what?
- A.
Removes a directory
- B.
Changes the directory
- C.
Creates a directory
Correct Answer
B. Changes the directoryExplanation
The command "cd" is used in the command line interface to change the current working directory. It allows the user to navigate through the file system by moving to a different directory. By typing "cd" followed by the desired directory name, the user can change their current location to that directory. Therefore, the correct answer is "Changes the directory".Rate this question:
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- 16.
The ___ character can accommodate for 1 character as a wildcard.
- A.
?
- B.
*
- C.
~
- D.
/
Correct Answer
A. ?Explanation
The "?" character can accommodate for 1 character as a wildcard.Rate this question:
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- 17.
A __________ is a command that processes input stream of data and produces an output stream.
- A.
Pipe
- B.
Screen
- C.
Filter
- D.
Tube
Correct Answer
C. FilterExplanation
A filter is a command that processes an input stream of data and produces an output stream. Filters are commonly used in computer programming and operating systems to manipulate and transform data. They can be used to extract specific information, modify data, or perform calculations on the input stream. By applying a filter, the desired output is obtained by processing the input data in a specific way.Rate this question:
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- 18.
The shell uses a _______ to connect standard output from one command and link it as the input to another command.
- A.
Link
- B.
Pipe
- C.
Filter
- D.
Screen
Correct Answer
B. PipeExplanation
A pipe is used by the shell to connect the standard output of one command and link it as the input to another command. This allows the output of the first command to be processed or used as input by the second command, enabling the chaining of multiple commands together in a Unix-like shell environment.Rate this question:
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- 19.
What command sends output in two directions?
- A.
Tee
- B.
Filter
- C.
Pipe
- D.
Echo
Correct Answer
A. TeeExplanation
The command "Tee" sends output in two directions. It takes input from a source and sends it to both standard output and one or more files. This allows the user to view the output on the screen while simultaneously saving it to a file for future reference or analysis.Rate this question:
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- 20.
A__________ structure frequently takes shape of a pyramid.
- A.
Birchbox
- B.
Tree
- C.
Ls
- D.
Hierarchy
Correct Answer
D. HierarchyExplanation
A hierarchy is a structure that is often represented as a pyramid, with different levels or tiers of authority or importance. In a hierarchy, there is a clear chain of command or levels of power, with each level being subordinate to the one above it. This structure is similar to a pyramid, where the top level has the most authority and the lower levels have less authority. Therefore, a hierarchy frequently takes the shape of a pyramid.Rate this question:
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- 21.
The Linux filesystem is called a?
- A.
Tree
- B.
Leaf
- C.
Bio
- D.
Root
Correct Answer
A. TreeExplanation
The Linux filesystem is referred to as a "tree" because it follows a hierarchical structure similar to a tree. The root directory acts as the main trunk, and all other directories and files branch out from it. This tree-like structure allows for easy organization and navigation of files and directories within the Linux system.Rate this question:
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- 22.
A______ is the part of the filename that follows an embedded period.
- A.
Filename systems
- B.
Filename Hierarchy
- C.
Filename extensions
- D.
Filename tree
Correct Answer
C. Filename extensionsExplanation
The term "filename extensions" refers to the part of a filename that follows the embedded period. It is a common practice in computer systems to use filename extensions to indicate the file type or format. For example, in the filename "document.docx", the ".docx" part is the filename extension, which indicates that the file is a Microsoft Word document. Therefore, the correct answer is "Filename extensions".Rate this question:
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- 23.
Every file has a______?
- A.
Root
- B.
Pathname
- C.
Tree
- D.
Filename
Correct Answer
B. PathnameExplanation
A pathname is a string of characters that specifies the location of a file or directory in a file system. It provides the complete address or path to access a specific file or directory within the file system hierarchy. Therefore, every file has a pathname that uniquely identifies its location within the file system.Rate this question:
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- 24.
A _________________ traces a path from the working directory to a file.
- A.
Relative Pathname
- B.
False Pathname
- C.
True Pathname
- D.
Two Pathname
Correct Answer
A. Relative PathnameExplanation
A Relative Pathname is a type of pathname that traces a path from the current working directory to a specific file. It does not start from the root directory but rather provides a relative path based on the current location. This allows for easier navigation and referencing of files within the directory structure.Rate this question:
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- 25.
A________ is a command that processes an input stream of data to produce an output stream of data.
- A.
Filter
- B.
Wax
- C.
Sort
- D.
Short
Correct Answer
A. FilterExplanation
A filter is a command that processes an input stream of data to produce an output stream of data. Filters are commonly used in programming and computer systems to manipulate and transform data. They can be used to extract specific information, remove unwanted data, or modify the data in some way. By applying a filter to an input stream, the desired output stream is generated based on the specified criteria or operations.Rate this question:
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- 26.
The _______ utility also accepts input from either a file or standard input.
- A.
Ntr
- B.
Brt
- C.
Lpr
- D.
Mete
Correct Answer
C. LprExplanation
The utility "Lpr" is capable of accepting input from either a file or standard input.Rate this question:
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- 27.
The ________ utility takes its input from the file specified on the command line, or when a file is not specified from standard input; it sends a output to standard output.
- A.
New
- B.
Mort
- C.
Sort
- D.
Organize
Correct Answer
C. SortExplanation
The "Sort" utility takes its input from the file specified on the command line, or when a file is not specified from standard input; it sends an output to standard output.Rate this question:
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- 28.
The _________ utility displays the line containing the string you specify.
- A.
Grep
- B.
Prep
- C.
Drep
- D.
Edit
Correct Answer
A. GrepExplanation
The correct answer is "Grep". Grep is a utility command in Unix and Unix-like operating systems that is used to search for a specific pattern or string in a file. It displays the line(s) that contain the specified string.Rate this question:
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- 29.
A_______ is a series of one or more commands that can be connected by pipes.
- A.
Homework
- B.
Paperwork
- C.
Files
- D.
Jobs
Correct Answer
D. JobsExplanation
The correct answer is "jobs" because in a computer context, "jobs" refers to a series of one or more commands that can be connected by pipes. These commands can be executed sequentially or simultaneously, allowing for efficient data processing and manipulation. The use of pipes enables the output of one command to serve as the input for the next command, creating a chain of commands that perform a specific task or achieve a desired result.Rate this question:
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- 30.
Changes access permissions on a file.
- A.
Pwd
- B.
Getfacl
- C.
Cd
- D.
Chmod
- E.
Mkdir
Correct Answer
D. ChmodExplanation
Chmod is the correct answer because it is a command used to change the access permissions of a file. It allows the user to specify who can read, write, or execute the file. Pwd is used to print the current working directory, Getfacl is used to get the access control list of a file, Cd is used to change the current directory, and Mkdir is used to create a new directory.Rate this question:
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- 31.
Displays a files’s ACL
- A.
Getfacl
- B.
Chmod
- C.
Cd
- D.
Pwd
- E.
Mkdir
Correct Answer
A. GetfaclExplanation
Getfacl is the correct answer because it is a command that displays the Access Control List (ACL) of a file. ACL is a set of permissions that determine the access rights of users and groups to a file or directory. The Getfacl command allows users to view the specific permissions and access levels granted to different users and groups for a particular file.Rate this question:
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- 32.
Associates you with another working directory.
- A.
Pwd
- B.
Mkdir
- C.
Getfacl
- D.
Cd
- E.
Chmod
Correct Answer
D. CdExplanation
The command "cd" is used to change the working directory in a command line interface. It allows you to navigate to a different directory in the file system. By using "cd", you can associate yourself with another working directory and access its contents.Rate this question:
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- 33.
Displays the pathname of the working directory.
- A.
Pwd
- B.
Cd
- C.
Getfacl
- D.
Chmod
- E.
Mkdir
Correct Answer
A. PwdExplanation
The correct answer is "pwd" because it is a command that is used in Unix-based operating systems to display the current working directory. When you run the "pwd" command, it shows you the full pathname of the directory you are currently in. This can be useful when navigating through the file system or when you need to know the exact location of a particular file or directory.Rate this question:
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- 34.
Creates a directory
- A.
Chmod
- B.
Cd
- C.
Getacl
- D.
Mkdir
- E.
Pwd
Correct Answer
D. MkdirExplanation
The correct answer is "Mkdir" because the command "mkdir" is used to create a new directory. It allows the user to specify the name and location of the directory that needs to be created. The other options mentioned in the question, such as "chmod", "cd", "getacl", and "pwd", are not used for creating directories.Rate this question:
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- 35.
Sends standard input to both a file and standard output.
- A.
Tr
- B.
Tee
- C.
Bg
- D.
Fg
- E.
Jobs
Correct Answer
B. TeeExplanation
The command "tee" is used to read from standard input and write to both standard output and a file. It is commonly used in shell scripts to display the output of a command on the screen and save it to a file simultaneously. In this case, the command "tee" is the correct answer because it aligns with the given statement that it sends standard input to both a file and standard output.Rate this question:
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- 36.
Displays a list of suspend jobs and jobs running in the background.
- A.
Jobs
- B.
Bg
- C.
Fg
- D.
Tee
- E.
Tr
Correct Answer
A. JobsExplanation
The answer "Jobs" is correct because the given statement is describing a feature or command that displays a list of suspend jobs and jobs running in the background. The "Jobs" command is commonly used in Unix-based operating systems to view the status of background processes or jobs that have been suspended. It provides information such as the job ID, status, and command associated with each job.Rate this question:
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- 37.
Moves a process to the background
- A.
Fg
- B.
Tee
- C.
Tr
- D.
Jobs
- E.
Bg
Correct Answer
E. BgExplanation
The command "Bg" is used to move a process to the background. This means that the process will continue running, but it will no longer be tied to the current terminal session. This is useful when you want to free up the terminal for other tasks while allowing the process to run in the background.Rate this question:
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- 38.
Moves one string of characters to another
- A.
Tr
- B.
Tee
- C.
Jobs
- D.
Fg
- E.
Bg
Correct Answer
A. TrExplanation
The given answer "Tr" is the correct answer because it is the first string of characters in the given list. The question asks for moving one string of characters to another, but it does not specify which string should be moved or where it should be moved to. Therefore, the first string "Tr" can be considered as the correct answer.Rate this question:
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- 39.
Moves a process to the foreground
- A.
Jobs
- B.
Tee
- C.
Fg
- D.
Bg
- E.
Tr
Correct Answer
C. FgExplanation
The correct answer is "Fg". In the context of computer processes, "Fg" stands for "foreground". When a process is moved to the foreground, it means that it is given priority and is actively running and interacting with the user. This is in contrast to running a process in the background, where it continues to execute but does not require user interaction.Rate this question:
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- 40.
A _____ is a set of data structures that usually resides on a part of a disk that holds directories of files
- A.
Directory
- B.
Structure
- C.
Filesystem
- D.
File Structure
Correct Answer
C. FilesystemExplanation
A filesystem is a set of data structures that usually resides on a part of a disk that holds directories of files. It organizes and manages the storage of files and directories, allowing for easy access and retrieval of data. The filesystem defines the structure and organization of files and directories, including their names, locations, and permissions. It provides a hierarchical structure that allows users to navigate and manage their files efficiently.Rate this question:
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- 41.
A _____________ structure frequently takes the shape of a pyramid.
- A.
Structure
- B.
Hierarchical
- C.
Archical
- D.
Directory
Correct Answer
B. HierarchicalExplanation
A hierarchical structure frequently takes the shape of a pyramid because it is organized in a way where there are multiple levels or tiers, with each level having a specific authority or control over the level below it. This creates a pyramid-like shape, where the top level has the highest authority and the subsequent levels have decreasing levels of authority. This type of structure is commonly found in organizations or systems where there is a clear chain of command and a well-defined hierarchy of power and control.Rate this question:
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- 42.
Each of the default rules that getfacl displays start with ________.
- A.
Default;
- B.
Default
- C.
Default:
- D.
None of the above
Correct Answer
C. Default:Explanation
Each of the default rules that getfacl displays start with "default:".Rate this question:
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- 43.
A ____ is a pointer to a file.
- A.
Link
- B.
Cursor
- C.
>
- D.
Arrow
Correct Answer
A. LinkExplanation
A link is a pointer to a file. In computer systems, a link is a reference or connection to a specific file or directory. It allows users to access and open the file by following the link. By using a link, users can navigate through different files and directories in a hierarchical structure. Therefore, a link serves as a pointer that directs users to a specific file location.Rate this question:
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- 44.
When you remove all _______ links to a file, you will not be able to access the file through a symbolic link.
- A.
Soft
- B.
Average
- C.
Hard
- D.
Light
Correct Answer
C. HardExplanation
When you remove all hard links to a file, you will not be able to access the file through a symbolic link. This is because hard links are direct references to the file's inode, which is the data structure that stores information about a file. When all hard links are removed, the inode is deleted, making it impossible to access the file through any symbolic link that may have been created.Rate this question:
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- 45.
An ___________ is a token, such as a filename, string of text, number, or other object that a command acts on.
- A.
Word
- B.
Argument
- C.
Agreement
- D.
Acknowledgement
Correct Answer
B. ArgumentExplanation
An argument is a token that a command acts on. It can be a filename, string of text, number, or any other object. When a command is executed, it requires an argument to specify what it should act upon.Rate this question:
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- 46.
An _________ is an argument that modifies the effect of a command.
- A.
Option
- B.
Chocie
- C.
Decision
- D.
Word
Correct Answer
A. OptionExplanation
An option is a choice that modifies the effect of a command. When giving a command, there may be different options or choices available to modify the outcome or behavior of that command. For example, in a computer program, the user may have the option to save a file in different formats or with different settings. The option chosen will determine how the command is executed and what the result will be. Therefore, an option is an argument that modifies the effect of a command.Rate this question:
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- 47.
The shell provides the ____________ feature that prevents overwriting a file using redirection.
- A.
Nogobler
- B.
Nonclobber
- C.
Noclobber
- D.
Yesclobber
Correct Answer
C. NoclobberExplanation
The shell provides the "noclobber" feature that prevents overwriting a file using redirection. This feature ensures that when redirecting output to a file, if the file already exists, it will not be overwritten. Instead, an error message will be displayed, preventing accidental data loss or file corruption.Rate this question:
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- 48.
The shell uses a _______ to connect standard output of one command to standard input of another command.
- A.
Pipe
- B.
Break
- C.
Dash
- D.
/dev/null
Correct Answer
A. PipeExplanation
A pipe is used by the shell to connect the standard output of one command to the standard input of another command. This allows the output of the first command to be directly used as input for the second command, enabling the chaining of multiple commands together.Rate this question:
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- 49.
A _____ is a series of one or more commands that can be connected by pipes.
- A.
Object
- B.
Line
- C.
Groups
- D.
Job
Correct Answer
D. JobExplanation
A job is a series of one or more commands that can be connected by pipes. This means that multiple commands can be executed in sequence, with the output of one command being used as the input for the next command. This allows for complex operations and data manipulation to be performed efficiently.Rate this question:
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- 50.
A set of data structures that resides on part of a disk and holds directories of files is called a _______.
- A.
Directory
- B.
Filesystem
- C.
Mount
- D.
Hierarchy
Correct Answer
B. FilesystemExplanation
A set of data structures that resides on part of a disk and holds directories of files is called a filesystem. A filesystem is responsible for organizing and managing the files and directories on a disk, allowing users to access and manipulate them. It provides a hierarchical structure that allows for easy navigation and storage of data.Rate this question:
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Nov 24, 2013Quiz Created by
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