Sample Questions

Hardware
Multiple Choice Questions (1 mark each):
1. What is the main function of the Control Unit (CU) in a CPU?
a) Store data temporarily b) Perform mathematical calculations c) Manage and coordinate
other CPU components d) Convert data to binary
2. Which storage device is directly accessible by the CPU?
a) Hard disk b) RAM c) DVD d) Flash drive
3. What is the purpose of a MAC address?
a) To identify the manufacturer of a device b) To uniquely identify a network interface card c) To
connect to the internet d) To store IP addresses
4. In an IPv4 address, how many bits are used?
a) 16 bits b) 32 bits c) 64 bits d) 128 bits
5. What is the primary advantage of cloud storage over local storage?
a) Faster access speed b) Lower initial costs c) Access from any device with internet d) Better
security
Short Answer Questions (2-3 marks each):
1. Explain the difference between primary and secondary storage. Provide one example of each.
Award marks for:
• Primary storage is directly accessible by CPU, secondary is not (1 mark)
• Primary storage is temporary/volatile, secondary is permanent/non-volatile (1 mark)
• Correct example of each (RAM/ROM for primary, HDD/SSD for secondary) (1 mark)
2. Describe two advantages and one disadvantage of using solid-state storage devices compared
to magnetic storage.
Award marks for:
• Advantage 1: Faster access speeds/No moving parts (1 mark)
• Advantage 2: More durable/Lower power consumption (1 mark)
• Disadvantage: Higher cost per GB/Limited write cycles (1 mark)
3. What is virtual memory? Explain how it helps when a computer has insufficient RAM.
Award marks for:
• Explanation of using hard disk space as RAM extension (1 mark)
• Description of paging process/how it helps manage memory shortage (1 mark)
4. Explain the difference between static and dynamic IP addresses. When would each be
preferred?
Award marks for:
• Clear distinction between permanent (static) and changing (dynamic) addresses (1 mark)
• Correct usage context (static for servers/businesses, dynamic for home users) (1 mark)
5. Describe the function of the three main buses (data bus, address bus, control bus) in a
computer system.
Award marks for:
• Data bus: carries actual data (1/2 mark)
• Address bus: carries memory addresses (1/2 mark)
• Control bus: carries control signals (1/2 mark)
• Direction of signals (bidirectional/unidirectional) (1/2 mark)
Extended Response Questions (6-8 marks each):
1. Describe the fetch-decode-execute cycle in detail. Use a diagram to support your answer and
explain the role of key registers in this process.
The fetch-decode-execute cycle, also known as the instruction cycle, is the fundamental
process by which a CPU processes instructions. This cycle occurs millions of times per second
and forms the basis of program execution.
The cycle consists of three main stages:
Fetch Stage: The Program Counter (PC) contains the address of the next instruction to be
executed. This address is copied to the Memory Address Register (MAR). The control unit sends
a READ signal via the control bus, while the address bus carries the address to RAM. The
instruction is then fetched from RAM and placed in the Memory Data Register (MDR). Finally,
it's copied to the Current Instruction Register (CIR). The PC is then incremented to point to the
next instruction.
Decode Stage: The Control Unit examines the instruction in the CIR and determines what
operation needs to be performed. This involves breaking down the instruction into:
• The operation code (opcode) that specifies what operation to perform
• The operand(s) that specify what data to operate on The CU decodes this information and
generates the appropriate control signals.
Execute Stage: The decoded instruction is executed, which might involve:
• The ALU performing calculations
• Data being transferred between registers
• Memory being read from or written to
• Input/output operations being performed
For example, if the instruction is to add two numbers:
1. The first number is loaded into the Accumulator (ACC)
2. The second number is fetched from memory
3. The ALU performs the addition
4. The result is stored back in the ACC
5. Cloud Storage vs Local Storage Comparison

2. Compare and contrast cloud storage with local storage under the following headings:
o Accessibility
o Cost
o Security
o Speed
Include practical examples to support your answer.
Accessibility: Cloud storage offers "anywhere, anytime" access through internet connectivity.
Users can access files from any device with an internet connection, making it ideal for remote
work and collaboration. However, this dependency on internet connectivity can be a limitation
when offline. Local storage provides immediate access without internet dependency but is
limited to the physical location of the device.
Cost: Cloud storage typically involves recurring subscription costs based on storage space
needed. Initial costs are low, but long-term expenses can accumulate. Providers often use
tiered pricing models. Local storage has higher upfront costs for hardware (drives, servers) but
no recurring fees. Maintenance and replacement costs should be considered for local storage.
 Security:
Cloud storage security involves:
• Provider's security measures (encryption, firewalls)
• Professional maintenance and monitoring
• Regular backups
• Potential vulnerability to cyber attacks
• Data jurisdiction issues
Local storage security includes:
• Physical security control
• Custom security measures
• Direct control over data
• Vulnerability to physical damage/theft
• Need for manual backup systems
Speed: Local storage generally offers faster access speeds, especially for large files. Factors
affecting speed include:
Cloud:
• Internet connection speed
• Server location
• Network congestion
• Service provider infrastructure
Local:
• Storage device type (SSD vs HDD)
• Local network capacity
• Hardware specifications
• Direct connection advantages
3. Explain how the CPU processes data using its components. Include in your answer:
o The role of the ALU
o How registers are used
o The function of the control unit
o The importance of the system clock
The CPU processes data through the coordinated action of its components:
ALU Role:
• Performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
• Handles logical operations (AND, OR, NOT)
• Compares values
• Works with data provided by registers
• Results are typically stored in the Accumulator
Register Usage:
• Program Counter (PC): Tracks next instruction address
• Memory Address Register (MAR): Holds memory addresses for access
• Memory Data Register (MDR): Temporarily stores data being transferred
• Current Instruction Register (CIR): Holds current instruction
• Accumulator (ACC): Stores intermediate calculation results
Control Unit Function:
• Manages instruction execution sequence
 • Coordinates data movement between components
• Generates timing and control signals
• Interprets instructions
• Controls ALU operations
System Clock Importance:
• Provides timing signals for synchronized operation
• Determines processing speed
• Affects power consumption and heat generation
• Modern CPUs can adjust clock speed based on workload
4. Describe how data is transferred between RAM and secondary storage. In your answer, include:
o The role of different types of memory
o Why this transfer is necessary
o How virtual memory fits into this process
o Potential performance implications
The process of data transfer between RAM and secondary storage is crucial for computer
operation:
Memory Types:
• RAM: Fast, volatile, directly accessible by CPU
• Cache: Very fast, small capacity, temporary storage
• Secondary Storage: Slower, non-volatile, large capacity
• Virtual Memory: Hard disk space used as RAM extension
Transfer Necessity:
• RAM's volatile nature requires permanent storage
• Limited RAM capacity necessitates data movement
• Program execution requires loading into RAM
• Data persistence requires saving to secondary storage
Virtual Memory Role:
• Creates illusion of larger RAM
• Uses page files on secondary storage
• Manages page swapping
• Handles memory overflow situations
Performance Implications:
• Access speed differences affect system performance
• Page swapping can slow system response
• Efficient memory management improves performance
• Balance needed between RAM and virtual memory usage
5. Explain how routers facilitate communication in a network. Your answer should include:
o The purpose of IP addresses
o How data packets are routed
o The difference between LANs and WANs
o The role of MAC addresses
Routers facilitate network communication through several mechanisms:
IP Addresses:
• Unique identifiers for network devices
• IPv4 vs IPv6 addressing schemes
 • Static vs dynamic allocation
• Subnet organization
Data Packet Routing:
• Packet header examination
• Routing table consultation
• Best path determination
• Traffic management
• Quality of service implementation
LAN vs WAN:
• LAN: Local network, limited geographical area
• WAN: Connects multiple LANs across distances
• Different protocols and requirements
• Scale considerations
MAC Addresses:
• Hardware-level identification
• Manufacturer assignment
• Address resolution protocol (ARP)
• Network interface identification
• Bridge between physical and network layers
Practical Application Questions (4-5 marks each):
1. A school wants to set up a computer network for 500 students. Describe the hardware
requirements and explain why each component is necessary.
Hardware Requirements and Justification:
Network Infrastructure:
• Multiple high-capacity routers (at least 3-4) to handle simultaneous connections from 500
students
• Enterprise-grade switches to segment the network into manageable sections
• Network cables (Cat 6 or better) for reliable high-speed connections
• Wireless access points strategically placed for comprehensive coverage
Justification: The size of the student body requires distributed access points to prevent
network congestion. Multiple routers help create separate network segments for better traffic
management.
Server Requirements:
• File server for student and staff data storage
• Print server to manage multiple printers
• Authentication server for security
• Backup server for data redundancy
Justification: Centralized servers enable efficient resource management and data security.
Authentication ensures proper access control for different user groups.
Network Security:
• Firewall appliance for network protection
• Network monitoring tools
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems
• Network management software
 Justification: Security is crucial in an educational environment to protect student data and
ensure appropriate internet usage.
2. A video editing company needs to upgrade their storage system. Compare three different
storage solutions they could use, considering their need to store large video files.
Solution 1: Network Attached Storage (NAS) Advantages:
• Centralized storage accessible by all editors
• RAID configuration for data protection
• Scalable capacity
• Cost-effective for medium-sized operations
Cost implications: $2,000-$10,000 depending on capacity
Solution 2: Storage Area Network (SAN) Advantages:
• Highest performance for video editing
• Block-level storage access
• Enterprise-grade reliability
• Multiple editor access without performance degradation
Cost implications: $20,000+ but offers best performance
Solution 3: Hybrid Cloud Storage Advantages:
• Local storage for active projects
• Cloud backup for completed projects
• Flexible capacity
• Geographic redundancy
Cost implications: Monthly costs based on usage, plus local storage costs

Recommendation: For a video editing company, a SAN solution would be optimal for active
projects, combined with a NAS system for completed project storage. This provides the
necessary performance for editing while maintaining cost-effectiveness for archival storage.
3. A small business is deciding between local servers and cloud storage. Analyze the factors they
should consider and make a recommendation based on typical business needs.
Factors to Consider:
Data Access Requirements:
• Frequency of access
• Number of simultaneous users
• Type of data being stored
• Required access speed
Security Needs:
• Data sensitivity
• Compliance requirements
• Backup requirements
• Access control needs
Cost Analysis:
Local Server:
• Initial hardware cost: $5,000-$15,000
• Maintenance: $2,000/year
• IT support: $10,000/year
• Total 3-year cost: $31,000-$41,000
 Cloud Storage:
• Monthly cost: $200-$500
• No maintenance costs
• Minimal IT support
• Total 3-year cost: $7,200-$18,000

Recommendation: For a small business, cloud storage would be more cost-effective unless
they have specific security requirements or very high-performance needs. The reduced
maintenance and IT support requirements make it particularly suitable for smaller
organizations.
4. Design a basic network layout for a home office with 3 computers, 2 printers, and various
mobile devices. Include a diagram and explain your choice of network hardware.
Network Layout:
Core Components:
• Business-grade router with built-in firewall
• Gigabit switch for wired connections
• Mesh Wi-Fi system for comprehensive wireless coverage
Connection Design:
Desktop Computers:
• Wired connections via Cat 6 cable to switch
• Direct ethernet for maximum stability
• Located near power outlets
Printers:
• One network printer connected via ethernet
• One wireless printer for flexibility
• Print server functionality through router
Mobile Devices:
• Connected via dual-band Wi-Fi
• Separate SSID for business and personal use
• Guest network for visitors
Security Considerations:
• WPA3 encryption for wireless
• VLAN separation for different device types
• Regular firmware updates
• Network monitoring
5. A student's computer is running slowly because of insufficient RAM. Explain how virtual
memory could help and what the performance implications would be.
Analysis of Current Situation: The student's computer is showing signs of insufficient RAM,
likely manifesting as:
• Slow application loading
• System freezes
• Poor multitasking performance
• Excessive disk activity
Virtual Memory Implementation:
Initial Setup:
• Configure page file size to 1.5x-2x RAM size
• Place page file on fastest available drive
• Separate page file from operating system if possible
Performance Optimization:
• Monitor page file usage
• Adjust size based on usage patterns
• Consider SSD for page file location
• Close unnecessary background applications
Short-term Solutions:
• Increase initial page file size
• Optimize running processes
• Clear temporary files
• Disable unnecessary startup programs
Long-term Recommendations:
• RAM upgrade (most effective solution)
• SSD installation for faster paging
• Regular system maintenance
• Application memory usage monitoring