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Basic Operating System Questions

The document provides a comprehensive overview of operating systems, including definitions, functions, types, and troubleshooting scenarios. It covers specific operating systems like Windows, memory and storage differences, user accounts, and security features. Additionally, it includes interview questions and ideal answers related to operating systems and technical support roles.

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Bhavana Reddy
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
2 views39 pages

Basic Operating System Questions

The document provides a comprehensive overview of operating systems, including definitions, functions, types, and troubleshooting scenarios. It covers specific operating systems like Windows, memory and storage differences, user accounts, and security features. Additionally, it includes interview questions and ideal answers related to operating systems and technical support roles.

Uploaded by

Bhavana Reddy
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

BASIC OPERATING SYSTEM QUESTIONS

What is an Operating System?

Ideal Answer:
An Operating System is system software that acts as an interface between the user and the
hardware. It manages memory, processes, files, and devices.

What are the main functions of an OS?

Ideal Answer:
Process management, memory management, file management, device management, and
security.

Examples of Operating Systems?

Ideal Answer:
Windows, Linux, macOS, Android.

WINDOWS OPERATING SYSTEM

What versions of Windows are you familiar with?

Ideal Answer:
Windows 10 and Windows 11.

What is Task Manager used for?

Ideal Answer:
Task Manager is used to monitor running processes, CPU, memory, disk usage, and to end
unresponsive applications.

System is running slow. What will you check?

Ideal Answer:
I will check Task Manager for high CPU or memory usage, close unnecessary applications, check
startup programs, and restart the system.
What is Safe Mode?

Ideal Answer:
Safe Mode starts Windows with minimum drivers to help troubleshoot system issues.

Difference between 32-bit and 64-bit OS?

Ideal Answer:
32-bit OS supports less RAM, while 64-bit OS supports more RAM and better performance.

MEMORY & STORAGE

Difference between RAM and ROM?

Ideal Answer:
RAM is volatile memory used for temporary data, while ROM is non-volatile and stores boot
instructions.

Difference between HDD and SSD?

Ideal Answer:
HDD uses mechanical parts and is slower, while SSD uses flash memory and is faster.

FILE SYSTEM & PROCESS MANAGEMENT

What is a file system?

Ideal Answer:
A file system organizes and manages data stored on a disk.

Examples of file systems?

Ideal Answer:
NTFS, FAT32.
What is a process?

Ideal Answer:
A process is a program in execution.

What is multitasking?

Ideal Answer:
Multitasking allows multiple programs to run simultaneously.

USER ACCOUNTS & SECURITY

Difference between Administrator and Standard user?

Ideal Answer:
Administrator has full system control, while Standard user has limited permissions.

What is User Account Control (UAC)?

Ideal Answer:
UAC helps prevent unauthorized changes by asking permission before administrative actions.

What is Active Directory? (Basic)

Ideal Answer:
Active Directory is a Microsoft service used to manage users, computers, and permissions in a
network.

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION & UPDATES

How do you install software in Windows?

Ideal Answer:
By running installer files or using Microsoft Store with proper permissions.
What will you do if software installation fails?

Ideal Answer:
Check system requirements, permissions, disk space, and reinstall.

Why are OS updates important?

Ideal Answer:
Updates fix bugs, improve performance, and enhance security.

TROUBLESHOOTING SCENARIOS (VERY IMPORTANT)

System not booting. What will you do?

Ideal Answer:
Try Safe Mode, check recent changes, run startup repair, or escalate.

Application not responding. What will you do?

Ideal Answer:
End the task using Task Manager and restart the application.

Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) – What is it?

Ideal Answer:
BSOD indicates a critical system error, often caused by driver or hardware issues.

COMMAND LINE (BASIC)

What is Command Prompt?

Ideal Answer:
A text-based interface to execute system commands.

Common Windows commands?


Ideal Answer:
ipconfig, ping, dir, tasklist.

BEHAVIORAL / SUPPORT QUESTIONS

How do you explain technical issues to non-technical users?

Ideal Answer:
I use simple language and step-by-step instructions.

What do you do if the issue is beyond your level?

Ideal Answer:
I document the issue and escalate it to senior support.

KERNEL – INTRODUCTION

What is a Kernel?

The Kernel is the core (heart) of an Operating System.

It acts as a bridge between hardware and software.

Applications cannot access hardware directly.


They request the kernel, and the kernel talks to the hardware.

Functions of Kernel

The kernel is responsible for:

• Process management (CPU scheduling)

• Memory management (RAM allocation)

• Device management (I/O operations)

• System calls (communication between apps & OS)

• Security & access control

Without the kernel, the OS cannot work.


HOW KERNEL WORKS (Simple Flow)

User → Application → Kernel → Hardware

Example:
When you open a file:
App → Kernel → Hard Disk → Kernel → App

TYPES OF KERNELS (VERY IMPORTANT)

Monolithic Kernel

Definition:

All OS services run in kernel space.

Features:

• Fast performance

• Large kernel size

• Less secure (if one part fails, whole system may crash)

Examples:

• Linux

• Unix

Used where performance is important.

Microkernel

Definition:

Only essential services run in kernel space.


Other services run in user space.

Features:

• More secure
• Stable

• Slightly slower (due to communication overhead)

Examples:

• Windows (partially)

• macOS (partially)

• MINIX

Used in secure and stable systems.

Hybrid Kernel

Definition:

Combination of Monolithic + Microkernel.

Features:

• Balanced performance and security

• Most modern OS use this

Examples:

• Windows OS

• macOS

Best of both worlds.

Exokernel

Definition:

Very small kernel.


Applications directly manage hardware resources.

Features:

• Very fast

• Complex for developers


Examples:

• Research-based systems

Rare in real-world use.

Nano Kernel (Very Small Kernel)

Definition:

Minimal kernel functions only.

Features:

• Used in embedded systems

• Very lightweight

Used in IoT and real-time systems.

KERNEL TYPES – QUICK COMPARISON

Kernel Type Speed Security Example

Monolithic High Low Linux

Microkernel Medium High MINIX

Hybrid High High Windows

Exokernel Very High Low Research

Nano Very High Medium Embedded OS

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS – KERNEL

Q What is a Kernel?

Answer: Kernel is the core of the OS that manages hardware and system resources.

Q Why is Kernel important?


Answer: It controls CPU, memory, devices, and communication between software and
hardware.

Q Difference between Kernel and OS?

Kernel OS

Core part Complete system

Manages hardware Provides user interface

Q Which kernel does Linux use?

Answer: Monolithic kernel.

Q Which kernel does Windows use?

Answer: Hybrid kernel.

Q What is kernel space and user space?

Answer:

• Kernel space: Critical system code

• User space: Applications

OPERATING SYSTEMS – TOPICS OVERVIEW (FIRST)

(Simple + Interview-friendly + IT Support level)

What is an Operating System (OS)?

An Operating System (OS) is system software that acts as an interface between the user and
computer hardware.
It controls how hardware resources are used and provides services to applications.

Examples:
• Windows

• Linux

• macOS

• Android

Functions of an Operating System

The OS performs the following main tasks:

• Process Management – Manages running programs

• Memory Management – Controls RAM usage

• File Management – Handles files and folders

• Device Management – Controls hardware like keyboard, printer

• Security – Protects system and data

Types of Operating Systems

• Single User OS – One user at a time

• Multi-User OS – Multiple users (Linux servers)

• Multitasking OS – Multiple programs simultaneously

• Real-Time OS (RTOS) – Immediate response systems

Process Management

A process is a program in execution.

OS responsibilities:

• Creating and terminating processes

• Scheduling CPU time

• Managing multitasking
Memory Management

Memory management controls RAM usage.

Key terms:

• RAM (Random Access Memory) – Temporary memory

• ROM (Read Only Memory) – Permanent memory

• Virtual Memory – Uses disk as extra RAM

Storage & File Systems

A file system organizes data on storage devices.

Common file systems:

• NTFS (New Technology File System)

• FAT32 (File Allocation Table 32)

Storage types:

• HDD (Hard Disk Drive)

• SSD (Solid State Drive)

Device Management

The OS uses device drivers to communicate with hardware devices.

Examples:

• Printer drivers

• Network drivers

Windows Operating System (Important)

Windows is a popular desktop OS used in organizations.

Key tools:

• Task Manager – Monitors system performance


• Control Panel / Settings – System configuration

• Device Manager – Hardware management

User Accounts & Security

OS provides:

• Administrator account – Full control

• Standard user account – Limited access

Security features:

• UAC (User Account Control)

• Login passwords

Booting & Startup

Booting is the process of starting a computer.

Types:

• Cold boot – Power on

• Warm boot – Restart

Troubleshooting in OS

Common issues:

• System slow

• App not responding

• Boot failure

• Blue Screen of Death (BSOD)

NOW – MOCK INTERVIEW QUESTIONS (OPERATING SYSTEMS)


BASIC QUESTIONS

What is an Operating System?

An OS is system software that manages hardware and software resources.

What are the main functions of an OS?

Process, memory, file, device management, and security.

Name different types of operating systems.

Single-user, multi-user, multitasking, real-time.

WINDOWS OS QUESTIONS

What is Task Manager?

It monitors processes, CPU, memory, and system performance.

What will you do if the system is slow?

Check Task Manager, close unused apps, restart system.

What is Safe Mode?

A diagnostic mode with minimum drivers.

MEMORY & STORAGE

Difference between RAM and ROM?

RAM is temporary; ROM is permanent.


Difference between HDD and SSD?

SSD is faster and has no moving parts.

PROCESS & FILE SYSTEM

What is a process?

A program in execution.

What is NTFS?

New Technology File System used in Windows.

SECURITY & USERS

Difference between Admin and Standard user?

Admin has full control; Standard user has limited access.

What is UAC?

Security feature that prevents unauthorized changes.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Application not responding – what do you do?

End task using Task Manager and restart app.

What is BSOD?

A critical Windows system error screen.

COMMAND LINE
What is Command Prompt?

Text-based interface to execute commands.

Tell me about yourself

Sample Answer:

I am a Computer Science graduate with a strong interest in IT support and troubleshooting. I


have basic knowledge of operating systems, computer networks, and hardware, and I enjoy
helping others solve technical issues. I am a quick learner, adaptable, and eager to grow in a
professional IT environment like Resillion.

Why do you want to work in IT Support?

Sample Answer:

I enjoy solving problems and interacting with people. IT support allows me to combine technical
skills with customer service. I like understanding user issues and fixing them efficiently while
continuously learning new technologies.

How do you handle a frustrated or angry user?

Sample Answer:

First, I stay calm and listen carefully to the user without interrupting. I acknowledge their issue
and assure them that I will help. Then I troubleshoot step by step and keep the user informed
until the issue is resolved or escalated if needed.

Tell me about a time you solved a technical problem

Sample Answer:

During my academics, I faced a system issue where applications were not responding. I
identified it as a memory issue, restarted unnecessary services, and resolved it. This helped me
understand the importance of systematic troubleshooting.

What would you do if you don’t know the solution to a problem?


Sample Answer:

I would first try basic troubleshooting and refer to documentation or knowledge bases. If the
issue still persists, I would escalate it to a senior team member while keeping the user informed.

How do you prioritize multiple issues at the same time?

Sample Answer:

I prioritize based on urgency and impact. Issues affecting many users or critical systems are
handled first, followed by individual or less critical issues. I also use the ticketing system to track
and manage tasks efficiently.

Describe a situation where you worked in a team

Sample Answer:

During a college project, we worked as a team to complete the assignment. I handled the
technical part while coordinating with teammates. We communicated regularly and completed
the project successfully on time.

How do you handle pressure or tight deadlines?

Sample Answer:

I stay focused and break the task into smaller steps. I follow a structured approach and ask for
help if required. Staying calm helps me work efficiently under pressure.

Have you ever made a mistake? How did you handle it?

Sample Answer:

Yes, during practice I once misconfigured a setting. I quickly identified the issue, corrected it,
and ensured it didn’t happen again by documenting the steps. I believe mistakes help us learn.

How do you keep yourself updated with technology?

Sample Answer:
I learn through online tutorials, documentation, and practice. I also read tech articles and try
hands-on experiments to improve my skills.

Why should we hire you?

Sample Answer:

I am enthusiastic, dependable, and eager to learn. I have a strong foundation in IT basics, good
communication skills, and a customer-focused attitude. I am confident I can grow into this role
and contribute positively to the team.

Where do you see yourself in 3–5 years?

Sample Answer:

I see myself growing as a skilled IT professional, gaining certifications, and taking on more
responsibilities while contributing to the organization’s success.

User says: “My system is not turning ON.”

What will you do?

Answer:

1. Check power cable and power socket

2. Check UPS / battery

3. Try another power cable

4. Check for indicator lights

5. If still not working, escalate as hardware issue

Key skill shown: Hardware troubleshooting

Internet is not working on one system only

What is your approach?

Answer:

1. Check Wi-Fi / LAN connection


2. Run ipconfig to check IP address

3. Ping gateway (ping [Link])

4. Restart network adapter

5. Check DNS settings

6. Escalate if unresolved

Key skill: Network basics

User forgot their system password

What will you do?

Answer:

1. Verify user identity

2. Reset password using Active Directory

3. Ask user to log in

4. Advise to change password after login

Key skill: Account management & security

Printer is not printing

Steps you will follow?

Answer:

1. Check power and paper

2. Check printer connection

3. Restart printer and system

4. Check printer queue

5. Reinstall printer driver if needed

Key skill: Peripheral troubleshooting


Application is very slow or not responding

How do you fix it?

Answer:

1. Check system resources (CPU, RAM)

2. Restart application

3. Clear cache if applicable

4. Restart system

5. Reinstall application if needed

Key skill: OS & application support

Blue Screen / System crash occurs

What action will you take?

Answer:

1. Note error message/code

2. Restart system

3. Check recent changes (driver/software)

4. Run system diagnostics

5. Escalate to L2/L3 support

Key skill: Incident handling

Multiple tickets assigned at the same time

How do you handle them?

Answer:

1. Check priority and impact

2. Handle critical issues first

3. Update ticket status


4. Communicate with users

5. Escalate if workload is high

Key skill: Time management

User complains “IT never helps properly”

How do you respond?

Answer:

1. Stay calm and professional

2. Listen to the issue

3. Apologize for inconvenience

4. Resolve or escalate issue

5. Follow up after resolution

Key skill: Customer service

Antivirus alert detected on user system

What will you do?

Answer:

1. Disconnect system from network

2. Run antivirus scan

3. Remove or quarantine malware

4. Update antivirus

5. Educate user on security practices

Key skill: Security awareness

User needs software installation without admin rights


What is your response?

Answer:

1. Check software approval policy

2. Get manager approval if required

3. Install using admin access

4. Update ticket with details

Key skill: Policy compliance

System date & time incorrect

How do you fix it?

Answer:

1. Check time zone

2. Sync with internet time server

3. Restart system

4. Verify issue resolved

Key skill: OS basics

VPN not connecting

Your troubleshooting steps?

Answer:

1. Check internet connectivity

2. Verify login credentials

3. Restart VPN client

4. Check firewall/antivirus

5. Escalate if server issue

Key skill: Remote access support


INTERVIEW TIP (VERY IMPORTANT)

Always answer in this format:


Listen → Analyze → Troubleshoot → Resolve/Escalate → Update ticket

COMPUTER NETWORKS – PRINTABLE CHEAT SHEET (DETAILED)

(IT Technical Support Graduate – Quick Revision)

COMPUTER NETWORK – BASIC (MORE DEPTH)

Computer Network

A computer network is a group of two or more computing devices connected together using
wired or wireless communication to share data, hardware, software, and internet access.

Real-Life Example

• Office computers sharing one printer and internet

• College Wi-Fi network

Advantages

• File sharing – Easy access to shared files

• Printer sharing – Cost saving

• Internet access – One connection for many users

• Fast communication – Email, chat, video calls

• Centralized management – Easy control by IT team

TYPES OF NETWORKS (FULL FORMS + USE)

Type Full Form Area Covered Example

LAN Local Area Network Small area Office, Home

MAN Metropolitan Area Network City Cable TV


Type Full Form Area Covered Example

WAN Wide Area Network Large area Internet

Interview Tip:

Most organizations mainly use LAN internally and WAN for internet access.

NETWORK DEVICES (VERY IMPORTANT – WITH DETAILS)

NIC – Network Interface Card

• Allows a device to connect to a network

• Every NIC has a MAC address

Hub

• Sends data to all connected devices

• No security, slow

• Rarely used now

Switch

• Sends data only to intended device

• Uses MAC address

• Faster and secure than hub

Router

• Connects two or more networks

• Uses IP address

• Connects LAN to Internet

Modem – Modulator Demodulator

• Converts digital ↔ analog signals

• Provided by ISP

Access Point
• Extends Wi-Fi coverage

• Used in offices and campuses

IP ADDRESSING (MORE DEPTH)

IP – Internet Protocol

A unique logical address used to identify a device on a network.

IPv4 – Internet Protocol Version 4

• 32-bit address

• Written in decimal

• Example: [Link]

IPv6 – Internet Protocol Version 6

• 128-bit address

• More secure

• Created due to IPv4 shortage

Static IP

• Manually configured

• Used for servers

• Stable but costly

Dynamic IP

• Assigned automatically by DHCP

• Changes over time

• Used for normal users

DHCP & DNS (VERY IMPORTANT – DEEPER)

DHCP – Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol


Automatically assigns:

• IP Address

• Subnet Mask

• Default Gateway

• DNS Server

Without DHCP:
User must manually configure IP → error-prone.

DNS – Domain Name System

Acts like the phonebook of the internet.

Example Flow:

[Link]

→ DNS Server

→ IP Address

→ Web Server

→ Website loads

If DNS fails:
Internet exists but websites won’t open by name.

NETWORK TOPOLOGIES (WITH USE)

Topology Description Status

Star All devices connect to switch Most used

Bus Single backbone cable Obsolete

Ring Circular data flow Rare

Star topology is preferred because failure of one device does not affect others.
OSI MODEL (DETAILED BUT SIMPLE)

OSI – Open Systems Interconnection

A 7-layer reference model to understand how data flows in a network.

Layer Name What It Does

7 Application User interaction

6 Presentation Encryption, format

5 Session Session management

4 Transport Reliable delivery

3 Network Routing (IP)

2 Data Link MAC addressing

1 Physical Cables, signals

Mnemonic:
All People Seem To Need Data Processing

NETWORK PROTOCOLS (WITH PURPOSE)

Protocol Full Form Purpose

TCP Transmission Control Protocol Reliable communication

UDP User Datagram Protocol Fast communication

HTTP HyperText Transfer Protocol Web browsing

HTTPS HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure Secure browsing

FTP File Transfer Protocol File transfer

SMTP Simple Mail Transfer Protocol Send email

POP3 Post Office Protocol v3 Download email


Protocol Full Form Purpose

IMAP Internet Message Access Protocol Access email online

COMMON PORT NUMBERS (INTERVIEW FAVORITE)

Service Port Reason

HTTP 80 Web

HTTPS 443 Secure web

FTP 21 File transfer

SMTP 25 Email sending

MAC ADDRESS (MORE DEPTH)

MAC – Media Access Control

• Physical (hardware) address

• Unique for each NIC

• Example: 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E

• Used within local network

MAC ≠ IP

• MAC = permanent

• IP = logical and changeable

NETWORK COMMANDS (WITH USE CASE)

Command Use

ipconfig Shows IP configuration

ping Tests connectivity


Command Use

tracert Shows packet path

nslookup Checks DNS

INTERNET NOT WORKING – DETAILED FLOW

1. Check physical connection

2. Restart router

3. Check IP address (ipconfig)

4. Ping gateway

5. Check DNS resolution

6. Escalate to network team

Interview Answer Tip:


Always say “step-by-step troubleshooting”.

NETWORK SECURITY (MORE DEPTH)

Firewall

• Filters incoming & outgoing traffic

• Protects internal network

VPN – Virtual Private Network

• Secure encrypted connection

• Used for remote work

Malware – Malicious Software

• Virus

• Trojan

• Worm

• Ransomware
COMMON INTERVIEW QUESTIONS – EXPANDED ANSWERS

Switch vs Router

• Switch: Works within same network using MAC

• Router: Connects different networks using IP

What is Ping?

A command used to check connectivity and response time.

What happens when you type a URL?

1. DNS resolves URL

2. IP address is found

3. Request sent to server

4. Server responds

5. Webpage loads

OSI MODEL – COMPLETE EXPLANATION

What is OSI Model?

OSI stands for Open Systems Interconnection.


It is a 7-layer reference model that explains how data travels from one computer to another
over a network.

It is theoretical, used for understanding and troubleshooting.

Why OSI Model is Important?

• Helps understand networking clearly

• Used in troubleshooting

• Commonly asked in interviews


OSI MODEL LAYERS (TOP → BOTTOM)

Mnemonic

All People Seem To Need Data Processing

Layer 7 – Application Layer

What it does:

• Interface between user and network

• Provides network services to applications

Examples:

• Web browser

• Email client

Protocols:

• HTTP, HTTPS

• FTP

• SMTP

Layer 6 – Presentation Layer

What it does:

• Data encryption & decryption

• Data compression

• Format conversion

Example:

• Converts data into readable format

Keyword: Encryption
Layer 5 – Session Layer

What it does:

• Establishes, manages, and terminates sessions

• Controls communication between systems

Example:

• Login session

• Video call session

Keyword: Session management

Layer 4 – Transport Layer

What it does:

• End-to-end data delivery

• Error detection and correction

• Flow control

Protocols:

• TCP – Transmission Control Protocol

• UDP – User Datagram Protocol

Keyword: Reliable delivery

Layer 3 – Network Layer

What it does:

• Logical addressing

• Routing of data packets

Examples:
• IP address

• Router

Keyword: Routing

Layer 2 – Data Link Layer

What it does:

• Physical addressing

• Error detection

Examples:

• MAC address

• Switch

Keyword: MAC addressing

Layer 1 – Physical Layer

What it does:

• Actual transmission of bits

• Deals with cables, signals, voltage

Examples:

• Ethernet cable

• Fiber optic cable

Keyword: Hardware

OSI MODEL – QUICK SUMMARY TABLE

Layer Name Key Function

7 Application User services


Layer Name Key Function

6 Presentation Encryption

5 Session Session control

4 Transport Reliable delivery

3 Network Routing

2 Data Link MAC

1 Physical Hardware

CLOUD SERVICE MODELS (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS)

IaaS – Infrastructure as a Service

Provides virtual hardware over internet.

What you get:

• Virtual machines

• Storage

• Network

What user manages:

• OS

• Applications

Examples:

• AWS EC2

• Microsoft Azure VM

Use case:
Hosting servers
PaaS – Platform as a Service

Provides platform to develop applications.

What you get:

• OS

• Runtime

• Development tools

What user manages:

• Application code

Examples:

• Google App Engine

• Heroku

Use case:
App development

SaaS – Software as a Service

Provides ready-to-use software.

What you get:

• Complete application

• No installation needed

Examples:

• Gmail

• Google Docs

• Office 365

Use case:
Daily work tools
IaaS vs PaaS vs SaaS (INTERVIEW TABLE)

Feature IaaS PaaS SaaS

Hardware ✔ ✔ ✔

OS ✔ ✔

App ✔

User Control High Medium Low

OTHER IMPORTANT MODELS (ASKED IN INTERVIEWS)

TCP/IP MODEL

Real-world networking model (used practically)

Layer Example

Application HTTP, FTP

Transport TCP, UDP

Internet IP

Network Access Ethernet

Difference:
OSI = 7 layers (theoretical)
TCP/IP = 4 layers (practical)

Client–Server Model

• Client requests

• Server responds

Example:
Browser → Web Server
Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Model

• No central server

• Devices share directly

Example:
File sharing

Centralized vs Distributed Networks

Centralized

• One main server

• Easy control

Distributed

• Multiple servers

• High reliability

• BASIC NETWORKING QUESTIONS


• What is a computer network?
• Expected Answer:
A computer network is a group of interconnected devices that share data, resources, and
internet using wired or wireless communication.

• What are the types of networks?
• Expected Answer:
LAN, MAN, and WAN. LAN is used in offices, MAN covers cities, and WAN covers
large geographical areas like the internet.

• What is the difference between LAN and WAN?
• Expected Answer:
LAN covers a small area with high speed, while WAN covers a large area and is slower
compared to LAN.

• What is an IP address?
• Expected Answer:
An IP address is a unique logical address used to identify a device on a network.

• Difference between IPv4 and IPv6?
• Expected Answer:
IPv4 uses 32-bit addressing and has limited addresses, while IPv6 uses 128-bit addressing
and supports more devices with better security.

• DHCP & DNS
• What is DHCP?
• Expected Answer:
DHCP automatically assigns IP address, subnet mask, gateway, and DNS to devices in a
network.

• What happens if DHCP server is down?
• Expected Answer:
Devices cannot get IP addresses automatically and may show limited or no connectivity.

• What is DNS?
• Expected Answer:
DNS converts domain names into IP addresses so computers can locate servers.

• NETWORK DEVICES
• Difference between switch and router?
• Expected Answer:
A switch connects devices within the same network using MAC addresses, while a router
connects different networks using IP addresses.

• What is a modem?
• Expected Answer:
A modem connects the user network to the ISP by converting digital signals to analog
and vice versa.

• OSI MODEL (VERY IMPORTANT)
• What is OSI Model?
• Expected Answer:
OSI Model is a 7-layer reference model that explains how data is transmitted from one
system to another in a network.

• Name all OSI layers.
• Expected Answer:
Application, Presentation, Session, Transport, Network, Data Link, Physical.

• Which layer is responsible for encryption?
• Expected Answer:
Presentation layer.

• Which layer handles routing?
• Expected Answer:
Network layer.

• Which devices work at Data Link and Network layers?
• Expected Answer:
Switch works at Data Link layer, Router works at Network layer.

• PROTOCOLS & PORTS
• Difference between TCP and UDP?
• Expected Answer:
TCP is reliable and ensures data delivery, while UDP is faster but does not guarantee
delivery.

• What is HTTP and HTTPS?
• Expected Answer:
HTTP is used for web communication, while HTTPS is secure and encrypted.

• What is the port number for HTTP and HTTPS?
• Expected Answer:
HTTP uses port 80 and HTTPS uses port 443.

• TROUBLESHOOTING SCENARIOS
• User says internet is not working. What will you do?
• Expected Answer:
I will check physical connection, restart router, verify IP address, ping gateway, check
DNS, and escalate if needed.

• User can ping IP but not website name. What is the issue?
• Expected Answer:
It is a DNS issue.

• CLOUD & SERVICE MODELS
• What is cloud computing?
• Expected Answer:
Cloud computing provides computing resources like servers and software over the
internet.

• Difference between IaaS, PaaS, and SaaS?
• Expected Answer:
IaaS provides infrastructure, PaaS provides development platform, and SaaS provides
ready-to-use software.

• SECURITY QUESTIONS
• What is phishing?
• Expected Answer:
Phishing is a cyber attack where attackers trick users into revealing sensitive information
using fake emails or websites.

• What is VPN?
• Expected Answer:
VPN provides a secure encrypted connection over the internet.

• BEHAVIOR + SUPPORT QUESTIONS
• How do you handle a frustrated user?
• Expected Answer:
I stay calm, listen carefully, empathize, and resolve the issue step-by-step.

• What will you do if you don’t know the solution?
• Expected Answer:
I will refer documentation or escalate to senior team members.

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