Basics of Data and Information
Types and Forms of Data Storage
Software and Operating Systems
History and Development of Technology
100

What is the difference between Data, Metadata, Information and Knowledge?

  • Data: Raw facts and figures that are unprocessed.
  • Metadata: Data that describes other data, providing information about it.
  • Information: Processed data that has context, relevance, and purpose.
  • Knowledge: Information that has been internalized, understood, and can be used to make decisions or solve problems.
100

Describe two categories of data storage devices: direct area storage and network-based storage. Give examples.

Direct Area Storage: Devices that are directly attached to a computer, like hard disk drives.

Network-Based Storage: Devices that are accessed over a network, such as Network Attached Storage (NAS) devices or cloud storage.

100

What is software? Give three examples of software types.

Software is a set of instructions that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks. Examples include operating systems (Windows, macOS), applications (Microsoft Office, Photoshop), and utilities (antivirus software).

100

When it comes to performing maintenance, what four types of changes can developers make?

Developers can make corrective changes, adaptive changes, perfective changes, and preventive changes during software maintenance.

200

What is Information Technology?

Information technology (IT) is the use of computers, storage, networking and other physical devices, infrastructure and processes to create, process, store, secure and exchange all forms of electronic data.

200

Describe these types of storage devices: flash storage, hybrid storage, cloud storage, hybrid cloud storage.

Flash Storage: Uses flash memory for data storage, like USB drives or SSDs.

Hybrid Storage: Combines disk and flash storage for better performance and capacity.

Cloud Storage: Data storage provided by a service provider accessible over the internet.

Hybrid Cloud Storage: Integrates private and public cloud storage services for flexibility.

200

Application software and system software work in different ways. What’s the difference?

Application software is used for specific tasks or applications, while system software is essential for running the computer and managing hardware components.

200

What are the main principles of cybersecurity?

  • Confidentiality: Ensures that data is accessed only by authorized individuals.
  • Integrity: Maintains the accuracy and consistency of data over its lifecycle.
  • Availability: Ensures that data and resources are available to authorized users when needed.
  • Authentication: Verifies the identity of users and systems.
  • Non-repudiation: Guarantees that actions or transactions cannot be denied after they have occurred.
300

What constitutes a computer?

A computer consists of hardware (physical components like the processor, memory, motherboard, etc.) and software (programs and operating systems that run on the hardware).

300

Speak about three main forms of data storage: file storage, block storage and object storage.

File Storage: Stores data in files and folders, often used for documents, images, and videos.

Block Storage: Manages data in blocks and is commonly used in storage area networks (SAN).

Object Storage: Stores data as objects with associated metadata, suitable for unstructured data.

300

What is an operating system? Give its definition and name its major functionalities.

An operating system is a software that manages computer hardware and provides common services for computer programs. Its major functionalities include managing memory, handling input and output, and controlling peripheral devices.

300

What is machine learning?

A subset of artificial intelligence that enables systems to learn and make predictions based on data.

400

How have the requirements for IT specialists been changing through the history of the area?

Over time, the requirements for IT specialists have evolved from a focus on technical skills to include communication, problem-solving, and adaptability due to the changing landscape of technology and business needs. Initially focused on technical skills, now includes problem-solving, communication, and adaptability.

400

Data storage for businesses: speak about SAN system.

A Storage Area Network (SAN) system is a dedicated, high-speed network that provides access to consolidated, block-level data storage.

400

Name three types of operating systems and explain their difference.

  • Batch Operating System: Processes a series of jobs without human intervention.
  • Multiprogramming Operating System: Allows multiple programs to run at the same time, increasing the CPU utilization.
  • Time-Sharing Operating System: Provides interactive use and resource sharing among multiple users.
400

Name five characteristics of software quality and explain their meaning.

  • Reliability: Consistency in performance.
  • Efficiency: Optimal resource utilization.
  • Portability: Ability to run on different platforms.
  • Maintainability: Ease of maintaining and updating the software.
  • Scalability: Capability to handle increased workload.
500

How is data storage defined? Speak about input and output data.

Data storage refers to the methods and technologies used to store and manage digital information. Input data is information that is entered into the computer, while output data is the result of processed input data.

500

What is cloud computing, and what are its major service models?

Cloud Computing: Delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, processing, and software. Major service models include:

  • IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): Provides virtualized computing resources over the internet.
  • PaaS (Platform as a Service): Offers a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications.
  • SaaS (Software as a Service): Delivers software applications over the internet on a subscription basis.
500

History of software: name 5 important events if the timeline of software history.

  • 1947: Invention of the first transistor.
  • 1958: Creation of the first programming language, LISP.
  • 1970: Development of the UNIX operating system.
  • 1983: Birth of the Internet.
  • 1991: Launch of the World Wide Web.
500

Software development lifecycle: speak about design and implementation.

Design involves creating a plan for the software, determining its architecture, and defining its features.