Here are some important questions for the "Fundamentals of Computer" course in the BCA 1st

Semester, which may help guide your study for 2024:

Top 100 questions for fundamentals of computers

 Basic Concepts and Components
1. **Define a Computer.** Explain its primary functions.

2. **What are the basic components of a computer system?** Describe each briefly.

3. **Define CPU.** Explain its main parts and their functions.

4. **Explain the types of memory in a computer system.** Include RAM and ROM.

5. **What are input and output devices?** List five examples of each.

 Software and Operating Systems

6. **What is an Operating System (OS)?** Outline its functions.

7. **Differentiate between system software and application software.**

8. **Define database management systems (DBMS).** Mention different types of database models.

9. **Explain the booting process of a computer.**

10. **What is the role of an OS in memory management?**

 Data and Number Systems

11. **What are binary and hexadecimal number systems?** Explain with examples.

12. **Convert between decimal and binary/hexadecimal.**

13. **Define data and information.** How are they different?

14. **Explain ASCII and Unicode.** Why are they important in computers?

 Networking Basics
15. **Define computer network and types of networks (LAN, MAN, WAN).**

16. **What is the Internet?** Describe the role of IP and DNS.

17. **Differentiate between Internet, Intranet, and Extranet.**

18. **What is a protocol?** Explain TCP/IP and HTTP.

19. **Explain network topologies and give examples.**

  Modern Technologies

20. **What is cloud computing?** Describe its types and uses.

21. **Define IoT (Internet of Things).** How is it impacting daily life?

22. **Explain cybersecurity and common threats.**

23. **What is Artificial Intelligence?** Mention its applications.

24. **Describe data science and its relevance in technology.**

 Computer Hardware and Architecture

25. **What is the motherboard?** Explain its importance in a computer system.

26. **Define microprocessor.** Explain its role and working.

27. **What are buses in a computer system?** Explain types of buses.

28. **What is cache memory?** Describe its function and importance.

29. **Define peripheral devices.** Differentiate between internal and external peripherals.

30. **What are ports?** List different types of ports and their uses.

31. **Explain the purpose of a power supply unit (PSU) in a computer.**

32. **What is the difference between SSD and HDD?** Explain with advantages of each.

33. **Describe the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and its function in the CPU.**

34. **What is a GPU?** Describe its use in graphics and computing.

 Data Storage and File Systems

35. **Define file system.** Describe FAT32 and NTFS.

36. **Explain the role of directories and subdirectories.**

37. **What are backup and restore?** Explain the importance of data backup.

38. **Explain the concept of virtual memory.** How does it work?

39. **Describe RAID technology and its purpose in data storage.**

40. **What is data compression?** Explain its types and importance.

 Input and Output Devices

41. **List different types of input devices.** Explain the uses of a keyboard and mouse.

42. **Describe output devices with examples.** Differentiate between monitor and printer.
43. **Explain the working of a scanner.** List types of scanners.

44. **What is a touchscreen?** Describe its advantages and disadvantages.

45. **Differentiate between laser and inkjet printers.**

 Operating Systems and Processes

46. **What is process management in OS?** Explain process scheduling.

47. **Describe types of user interfaces.** Explain CLI and GUI.

48. **What are multitasking and multiprocessing?** Provide examples.

49. **Explain file management in an operating system.**

50. **Define deadlock in OS.** Explain methods to handle deadlock.

51. **What is paging and segmentation in memory management?**

52. **What is a kernel?** Explain its role in an OS.

53. **Define real-time operating system (RTOS).** Give examples.

54. **What are the advantages and disadvantages of open-source OS?**

 Computer Software and Applications

55. **Differentiate between freeware, shareware, and open-source software.**

56. **What is software licensing?** Explain different types.

57. **Define antivirus software.** Why is it important?

58. **Describe productivity software with examples.**

59. **What are programming languages?** Explain high-level and low-level languages.

60. **Explain compilers and interpreters.** How are they different?

 Basics of Networking

61. **What is a modem?** Describe its purpose in networking.

62. **Define network topology.** Explain bus and star topology.

63. **What is Wi-Fi?** Describe how it works.

64. **Explain bandwidth and latency in network performance.**

65. **What is an IP address?** Describe IPv4 and IPv6.

66. **Explain the role of a firewall in network security.**

67. **What is a router?** Describe its function in networking.

  Internet and Web Technologies

68. **What is a web browser?** List examples and explain functions.

69. **Define HTML and CSS.** Explain their roles in web development.

70. **Explain HTTP and HTTPS.** How do they differ?

71. **What is a URL?** Describe its structure.

72. **What are cookies?** Explain their role in web browsing.

73. **Define search engine.** List popular search engines.

 Database Management

74. **Differentiate between RDBMS and DBMS.**

75. **Explain SQL and its importance in databases.**

76. **What is a primary key?** Describe its role in database design.

77. **Define normalization in databases.** Explain its types.

78. **Describe a database transaction.** Explain ACID properties.

 Data Security and Ethics

79. **Define cybersecurity.** Explain its importance.

80. **What is encryption?** Describe its role in data security.

81. **Explain ethical hacking.** Describe its purpose.

82. **What is data privacy?** Describe best practices to ensure it.

83. **Define malware.** Explain types of malware.

84. **Explain phishing.** How can users protect themselves?

85. **What are digital signatures?** Explain their role in cybersecurity.

 Emerging Technologies

86. **What is blockchain technology?** Describe its applications.

87. **Explain machine learning and its use cases.**

88. **What is big data?** Describe its significance in technology.

89. **Define virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR).**

90. **What is cloud storage?** Describe its advantages and disadvantages.

91. **Explain edge computing.** How is it different from cloud computing?

 Miscellaneous and Practical Applications

92. **What are DOS commands?** Give examples and their usage.

93. **Explain Microsoft Office applications.** Describe uses of Word and Excel.

94. **Describe different data types in programming.**

95. **What is flowcharting?** Explain its use in programming.

96. **Define algorithm.** Describe its characteristics.

97. **Explain pseudocode and its purpose in programming.**

98. **What are logic gates?** Explain AND, OR, and NOT gates.

99. **Describe binary addition with examples.**

100. **Explain the concept of recursion in programming.**

These questions span the essentials for BCA *Fundamentals of Computer* studies, touching on both
theory and practical applications.

Answers –
Here are the answers in short and simple lines:

Here are concise answers to all the questions you requested:

### **Computer Basics**

1. **Computer:** An electronic device that processes data and performs tasks. Primary functions:
input, processing, storage, output, and control.

2. **Basic Components of a Computer:**

- **CPU:** Processes data.

- **Memory (RAM, ROM):** Stores data temporarily or permanently.

- **Input Devices:** Tools to input data (e.g., keyboard).

- **Output Devices:** Show results (e.g., monitor).

- **Storage Devices:** Store data (e.g., hard drive).

3. **CPU:** The brain of the computer, executing instructions. Parts: ALU (performs calculations), CU
(controls operations), and registers (fast data storage).

4. **Memory Types:**

- **RAM:** Temporary storage, volatile.

- **ROM:** Permanent storage, non-volatile.

5. **Input and Output Devices:**

- **Input Devices:** Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone, Touchpad.

- **Output Devices:** Monitor, Printer, Speaker, Projector, Headphones.

### **Software and Operating Systems**

6. **OS:** Software that manages hardware and software resources. Functions: process
management, memory management, file management, device management, user interface.

7. **System vs Application Software:**

- **System Software:** OS, device drivers (operates hardware).

- **Application Software:** Programs for specific tasks (e.g., Word Processor).

8. **DBMS:** Software for managing databases. Models: Hierarchical, Network, Relational, Object-
Oriented.

9. **Booting Process:** Starting the computer; POST test, loading OS, kernel initialization.

10. **OS in Memory Management:** Allocates, deallocates memory, provides virtual memory,
handles swapping.

### **Data and Number Systems**

11. **Binary and Hexadecimal Systems:**

- **Binary:** Base-2 system (0, 1). Example: 1010 (binary) = 10 (decimal).

- **Hexadecimal:** Base-16 system (0-9, A-F). Example: 1A (hexadecimal) = 26 (decimal).

12. **Convert Decimal to Binary/Hex:** Divide by 2 (binary), divide by 16 (hexadecimal).

13. **Data vs Information:** Data is raw facts; information is processed and meaningful data.

14. **ASCII and Unicode:** ASCII is a 7-bit encoding for basic characters, Unicode supports global
characters (more than 128 characters).

### **Networking Basics**

15. **Computer Network:** A system of interconnected devices. Types: LAN (local), MAN (city),
WAN (global).
16. **Internet:** Global network of computers. IP addresses identify devices, DNS translates domain
names to IP addresses.

17. **Internet, Intranet, Extranet:**

- **Internet:** Public global network.

- **Intranet:** Private internal network.

- **Extranet:** A secure network accessible by external users.

18. **Protocol:** Rules for data exchange. TCP/IP (communication standard) and HTTP (web data
transfer protocol).

19. **Network Topologies:** Layout of network devices. Examples: Bus (single cable), Star (central
hub).

### **Modern Technologies**

20. **Cloud Computing:** Internet-based computing. Types: IaaS, PaaS, SaaS. Uses: Storage,
computing power.

21. **IoT:** Network of devices that connect to the internet. Impact: Smart homes, connected
devices.

22. **Cybersecurity:** Protection against digital threats. Threats: Viruses, hacking, phishing.

23. **AI:** Machines performing tasks requiring intelligence. Applications: Robotics, data analysis.

24. **Data Science:** Field that uses data to gain insights. Importance: Big data analysis, decision-
making.

### **Computer Hardware and Architecture**

25. **Motherboard:** Main circuit board, connects all components.

26. **Microprocessor:** A CPU on a chip. Executes instructions.

27. **Buses:** Pathways for data transfer. Types: Data bus, Address bus, Control bus.

28. **Cache Memory:** Fast, temporary memory for quick data access.

29. **Peripheral Devices:** External devices. Internal: Hard drive. External: Printer.

30. **Ports:** Connect external devices. Types: USB, HDMI, VGA.

31. **PSU:** Converts electricity from wall to usable power for the computer.

32. **SSD vs HDD:** SSD (fast, uses flash memory), HDD (slower, uses spinning disks).

33. **ALU:** Performs arithmetic and logic operations.

34. **GPU:** Handles graphics processing for display and computing.

### **Data Storage and File Systems**

35. **File System:** Organizes data. FAT32 and NTFS (types of file systems).

36. **Directories:** Folders to organize files. Subdirectories are folders inside other folders.

37. **Backup and Restore:** Backup saves data, restore recovers it in case of loss.

38. **Virtual Memory:** Uses hard disk space as extra memory.

39. **RAID:** Redundant Array of Independent Disks, increases storage reliability and speed.

40. **Data Compression:** Reduces data size. Types: Lossless, lossy.

### **Input and Output Devices**

41. **Input Devices:** Keyboard (typing), Mouse (pointing), Scanner (scanning images).

42. **Output Devices:** Monitor (displays visuals), Printer (prints), Speaker (sound output).

43. **Scanner:** Scans images and converts to digital form. Types: Flatbed, handheld.

44. **Touchscreen:** Allows touch interaction. Advantages: Easy use, disadvantage: prone to
damage.

45. **Laser vs Inkjet Printers:** Laser (fast, high quality), Inkjet (better color, slower).

### **Operating Systems and Processes**

46. **Process Management:** OS manages processes, schedules tasks.

47. **User Interfaces:** CLI (text-based) and GUI (graphical, user-friendly).

48. **Multitasking and Multiprocessing:**

- **Multitasking:** Running multiple tasks.

- **Multiprocessing:** Using multiple CPUs for tasks.

49. **File Management:** OS handles file storage, retrieval.

50. **Deadlock:** Situation where processes are blocked. Handled by detection, prevention.

51. **Paging and Segmentation:** Memory management techniques.

52. **Kernel:** Core part of OS, manages resources.

53. **RTOS:** Real-time OS for time-sensitive tasks (e.g., medical devices).

54. **Open-source OS:** Free to use and modify. Advantages: Cost, flexibility; Disadvantages:
Support issues.

### **Computer Software and Applications**

55. **Freeware, Shareware, Open-source Software:**

 - **Freeware:** Free to use.

- **Shareware:** Trial software.

- **Open-source:** Source code available to modify.

56. **Software Licensing:** Legal permission to use software. Types: Proprietary, open-source.

57. **Antivirus Software:** Protects against malicious software.

58. **Productivity Software:** Tools for work, e.g., Word, Excel.

59. **Programming Languages:** High-level (easy to use) vs low-level (closer to machine code).

60. **Compilers and Interpreters:**

- **Compiler:** Translates entire program at once.

- **Interpreter:** Translates line by line.

### **Basics of Networking**

61. **Modem:** Converts digital data to analog for internet access.

62. **Network Topology:** Arrangement of devices. Bus and Star are common.

63. **Wi-Fi:** Wireless technology for network communication.

64. **Bandwidth and Latency:** Bandwidth is data transfer rate, latency is delay.

65. **IP Address:** Unique identifier for devices on a network. IPv4 vs IPv6.

66. **Firewall:** Protects networks from unauthorized access.

67. **Router:** Routes data between different networks.

### **Internet and Web Technologies**

68. **Web Browser:** Software to access websites. Examples: Chrome, Firefox.

69. **HTML and CSS:** HTML structures web pages, CSS styles them.

70. **HTTP and HTTPS:** HTTP (non-secure), HTTPS (secure version).

71. **URL:** Web address. Structure: protocol://domain/path.

72. **Cookies:** Store user preferences on websites.

73. **Search Engine:** Software to find information on the internet. Examples: Google, Bing.

### **Database Management**

74. **RDBMS vs DBMS:** RDBMS uses tables and relationships, DBMS doesn't necessarily.

75. **SQL:** Structured Query Language for database manipulation.

76. **Primary Key:** Unique identifier in a database.

77. **Normalization:** Organizing data to reduce redundancy.

78. **Database Transaction:** A sequence of operations that are treated as a single unit. ACID
ensures data consistency.

### **Data Security and Ethics**

79. **Cybersecurity:** Protects against cyberattacks.

80. **Encryption:** Secures data by converting it to unreadable form.

81. **Ethical Hacking:** Authorized hacking to find vulnerabilities.

82. **Data Privacy:** Protecting personal data. Best practices: strong passwords, encryption.

83. **Malware:** Malicious software. Types: viruses, worms, trojans.

84. **Phishing:** Fraudulent attempt to get sensitive information. Protect by verifying sources.

85. **Digital Signatures:** Verifies the authenticity of digital documents.

### **Emerging Technologies**

86. **Blockchain:** A decentralized digital ledger. Applications: Cryptocurrencies.

87. **Machine Learning:** AI that learns from data. Uses: Predictive analysis.

88. **Big Data:** Large datasets analyzed for insights.

89. **VR and AR:** VR immerses users in a digital world, AR overlays digital content on the real

Here are the concise answers for the remaining questions:

### **Emerging Technologies (Continued)**

89. **Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR):**

- **VR:** Creates a completely digital, immersive environment.

- **AR:** Enhances the real world by overlaying digital content on it.

90. **Cloud Storage:** Online data storage. Advantages: Accessible anywhere, scalable;
Disadvantages: Privacy risks, requires internet.

91. **Edge Computing:** Data processing closer to the source of data. It reduces latency and
bandwidth usage, unlike cloud computing.

### **Miscellaneous and Practical Applications**

92. **DOS Commands:** Command-line instructions used in MS-DOS for system operations.
Example: `dir` (list files).

93. **Microsoft Office Applications:**

- **Word:** Word processing.

- **Excel:** Spreadsheet management.

94. **Data Types in Programming:**

- **Integer:** Whole numbers.

- **Float:** Decimal numbers.

- **String:** Text data.

- **Boolean:** True/False values.

95. **Flowcharting:** A diagrammatic representation of processes or algorithms.

96. **Algorithm:** Step-by-step instructions to solve a problem. Characteristics: Finiteness,
definiteness, and effectiveness.

97. **Pseudocode:** A simple, informal way to describe an algorithm using plain language.

98. **Logic Gates:** Basic building blocks of digital circuits.

- **AND Gate:** Output is true if both inputs are true.

- **OR Gate:** Output is true if at least one input is true.

- **NOT Gate:** Inverts the input.

99. **Binary Addition:** Adding binary numbers, carrying over when sum exceeds 1. Example: 101 +
11 = 1000.

100. **Recursion in Programming:** A function calls itself to solve smaller instances of a problem.
Example: Factorial calculation.