End of Ctech Unit 1 Review

A large supermarket chain needs to track customer purchases and inventory levels in real time. Which type of IT system would be most appropriate for this purpose?

• Spreadsheet software

• Word processing software

• Database Management System (DBMS)

• Presentation software

Answer explanation

A Database Management System (DBMS) is ideal for tracking customer purchases and inventory in real time, as it can efficiently store, retrieve, and manage large amounts of data, unlike spreadsheet or word processing software.

A graphic designer needs a high-resolution display with accurate colour representation for their work. What type of monitor technology would best meet their requirements?

• Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)

• Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)

• Digital Light Processing (DLP)

• Plasma Display Panel (PDP)

Answer explanation

Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD) offer high resolution and excellent color accuracy, making them ideal for graphic design work. Other options like CRT and PDP are outdated, while DLP is more suited for projection than direct display.

A company wants to implement a system to control access to sensitive data based on employee roles. Which digital security method would be most effective for this purpose?

• Antivirus software

• Firewall

• Permissions

• Encryption

Answer explanation

Permissions are essential for controlling access to sensitive data based on employee roles, allowing only authorized users to access specific information. Other options like antivirus, firewall, and encryption do not directly manage access control.

Identify two essential hardware components required to establish a wired Local Area Network (LAN).

• Router and Modem

• Switch and Network Interface Card (NIC)

• Printer and Scanner

• Monitor and Keyboard

Answer explanation

A wired LAN requires a Switch to connect multiple devices and a Network Interface Card (NIC) in each device to facilitate communication. The other options do not provide the necessary components for establishing a LAN.

Explain two benefits of using a LAN for a small business.

• Increased electricity usage and higher costs

• Improved data security and reduced hardware costs

• Faster internet speed and increased employee turnover

• Enhanced communication and resource sharing

Answer explanation

Using a LAN enhances communication among employees, allowing for quick information exchange. It also facilitates resource sharing, such as printers and files, which improves efficiency and collaboration in a small business.

Discuss one potential security concern associated with using a wired LAN and suggest a method to mitigate this risk.

• Data interception; use strong passwords

• Physical theft; install antivirus software

• Malware infection; use a firewall

• Unauthorised access; implement network segmentation

Answer explanation

Unauthorised access is a key concern in wired LANs, as physical connections can be exploited. Implementing network segmentation helps isolate sensitive data and restrict access, reducing the risk of unauthorized users gaining entry.

Explain how the principles of the Data Protection Act (DPA) apply to an online retailer's handling of customer data.

• Data should be shared freely with third parties

• Data should be collected without customer consent

• Data should be processed lawfully and transparently

• Data should be stored indefinitely

Answer explanation

The Data Protection Act requires that customer data be processed lawfully and transparently, ensuring customers are informed about how their data is used, which is essential for building trust in an online retail environment.

Describe the role of Random Access Memory (RAM) in a computer system.

• Long-term data storage

• Temporary data storage for quick access

• Power supply regulation

• Network connectivity

Answer explanation

Random Access Memory (RAM) serves as temporary data storage, allowing the CPU to quickly access and process data needed for running applications and tasks. This is crucial for system performance, unlike long-term storage solutions.

Explain how insufficient RAM can affect computer performance.

• Increases battery life

• Slows down processing speed

• Enhances graphics quality

• Improves internet connectivity

Answer explanation

Insufficient RAM limits the amount of data the computer can process simultaneously, leading to increased reliance on slower disk storage. This results in slower processing speed, making tasks take longer to complete.

Identify two different types of software testing that software developers should conduct.

• Unit testing and Integration testing

• Colour testing and Sound testing

• Hardware testing and Network testing

• Temperature testing and Pressure testing

Answer explanation

Unit testing focuses on individual components for correctness, while Integration testing evaluates the interaction between those components. Both are essential for ensuring software quality, making them the correct choices.