Basic Computer Skills MCQs with Answers

This collection of Basic Computer Skills MCQs with answers helps you prepare for computer literacy tests, competitive exams, and job assessments. Each question includes a clear explanation to help you learn quickly and confidently.

1. What does Ctrl + Z generally do?





ANSWER = (B) Undo the last action
Explain:- Ctrl + Z is the common keyboard shortcut for undoing the most recent action in many programs.

 

2. Can you undo more than one step in most programs?





ANSWER = (B) Yes, many programs support multiple undos
Explain:- Most modern applications maintain an undo history allowing several steps to be undone.

 

3. What is Redo used for?





ANSWER = (A) Reverse an Undo
Explain:- Redo reinstates the action that was undone, restoring the change.

 

4. Does Undo work in all programs?





ANSWER = (B) No, it depends on whether the program implements it
Explain:- Undo must be implemented by the software; not all programs support it.

 

5. What is the Undo button symbol usually shown as?





ANSWER = (B) A curved arrow pointing left
Explain:- Many apps use a left-pointing curved arrow to indicate Undo.

 

6. What is a file extension?





ANSWER = (A) The part of the filename after the dot indicating file type
Explain:- Extensions like .pdf, .jpg, .docx tell the system how to open the file.

 

7. Why are some file extensions hidden by default?





ANSWER = (A) To prevent casual users from accidentally renaming them
Explain:- Hiding extensions reduces accidental changes that could make a file unusable.

 

8. Can you change a file extension manually?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, but it may prevent the file from opening correctly
Explain:- Changing extensions doesn't actually convert file content and may break association with programs.

 

9. How can you tell if a downloaded file is likely safe?





ANSWER = (B) It's from a trusted source and scanned by antivirus
Explain:- Files from reputable sites and scanned by security tools are generally safer.

 

10. What is the difference between downloading and uploading?





ANSWER = (B) Downloading = receiving from the internet; Uploading = sending to the internet
Explain:- Download brings data to your device; upload sends your data to a remote server or service.

 

11. Can you download or upload without an internet connection?





ANSWER = (B) No, internet is required for downloading and uploading over networks
Explain:- Network transfer requires connectivity, though you can copy files locally without internet.

 

12. Is it safe to download files from any website?





ANSWER = (B) No, only trusted websites should be used
Explain:- Untrusted sites may host malware; verify source and scan files before opening.

 

13. What are some common file types for uploading?





ANSWER = (A) JPG, PNG, PDF, MP3
Explain:- Common upload formats include images (JPG/PNG), documents (PDF), audio (MP3), and more.

 

14. What is free software?





ANSWER = (B) Software available to use without payment
Explain:- Free software is distributed at no cost, though "free" can mean freedom to use or price-free.

 

15. Is free software always safe?





ANSWER = (B) Not necessarily; it depends on source and maintenance
Explain:- Safety depends on who provides it and how well it's maintained and reviewed.

 

16. Can free software replace paid software?





ANSWER = (B) Sometimes, depending on features and needs
Explain:- Some free/open-source tools match paid alternatives, but needs vary by user.

 

17. How do developers earn from free software?





ANSWER = (B) Through donations, support contracts, premium features, or ads
Explain:- Monetization strategies include paid services, dual licensing, donations, and add-on products.

 

18. What is the main difference between open source and closed source software?





ANSWER = (B) Open source provides source code to users; closed source does not
Explain:- Open-source projects allow users to view and modify source code; closed-source projects keep it proprietary.

 

19. Can you modify open source software?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, you can modify it if the license allows
Explain:- Open-source licenses generally permit modification; check the specific license terms.

 

20. Is open source always free of charge?





ANSWER = (B) No; open source refers to source availability, not necessarily price
Explain:- Some open-source software may have paid versions or associated support services.

 

21. Why might someone choose closed source software?





ANSWER = (A) For commercial support, polished features, and guaranteed updates
Explain:- Businesses often prefer closed-source products for vendor support and warranties.

 

22. Which type is generally better for beginners?





ANSWER = (A) Closed source, because of polished UI and vendor support
Explain:- For many beginners, commercially supported software can be easier due to user-friendly interfaces and help resources.

 

23. What does PDF stand for?





ANSWER = (A) Portable Document Format
Explain:- PDF is a file format for presenting documents independent of software or hardware.

 

24. Are PDFs free to open?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, most readers open PDFs for free
Explain:- Many free PDF readers (and browsers) can open PDF files without cost.

 

25. Can you password-protect a PDF?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, most PDF tools allow setting a password
Explain:- Many PDF creators let you encrypt or password-protect a document.

 

26. How do you convert a Word document to PDF?





ANSWER = (B) Use Save As or Export → PDF in Word or print to PDF
Explain:- Most word processors offer an export or Save As PDF option or a virtual PDF printer.

 

27. Can PDFs be compressed to reduce file size?





ANSWER = (B) Yes, using compression tools or saving with lower image quality
Explain:- PDF compression reduces images/embedded content to make files smaller.

 

28. Do you need a separate router if you already have a modem with Wi-Fi?





ANSWER = (B) Not necessarily; many modem-router combos provide Wi-Fi
Explain:- Some ISPs supply combined modem-router units; a separate router is only needed for extra features or coverage.

 

29. How can you secure your Wi-Fi?





ANSWER = (A) Use strong WPA2/WPA3 password, hide SSID, update firmware
Explain:- Good security includes strong encryption, firmware updates, and secure admin credentials.

 

30. Can multiple devices connect to the same Wi-Fi at once?





ANSWER = (B) Yes, routers support many devices but performance may vary
Explain:- Routers handle multiple connections; bandwidth and router capability determine speed per device.

 

31. How far does typical home Wi-Fi reach?





ANSWER = (A) Up to several meters depending on router and environment
Explain:- Range varies with router power, obstacles, and interference; extenders can increase coverage.

 

32. Why should you update your software regularly?





ANSWER = (A) To obtain security fixes, new features, and bug fixes
Explain:- Updates patch vulnerabilities and improve stability and performance.

 

33. Can you skip updates if your system seems fine?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, but it increases risk because updates often contain security fixes
Explain:- Skipping updates can leave you vulnerable to known security issues.

 

34. How do you know which apps need updates?





ANSWER = (A) OS or app store notifications and update settings show available updates
Explain:- App stores and system update tools notify you about available updates.

 

35. Do updates affect your personal files?





ANSWER = (A) Usually not, updates target system or app files but backups are recommended
Explain:- Updates typically don't modify personal documents, but it's wise to backup before major updates.

 

36. Can you use any image from the internet as your desktop background?





ANSWER = (B) No, you should respect copyright and terms of use
Explain:- Use images you have rights to or those labeled for reuse to avoid copyright issues.

 

37. Can you set a slideshow of images as wallpaper?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, most OSes support rotating wallpapers or slideshows
Explain:- Windows, macOS and many Linux environments let you cycle desktop backgrounds automatically.

 

38. Can you use personal photos as your desktop background?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, you can use personal photos as wallpaper
Explain:- Personal images are fine to use as backgrounds, respecting privacy and workplace rules.

 

39. What is a computer virus?





ANSWER = (B) Malicious code that can damage or hijack files and systems
Explain:- Viruses and other malware are designed to compromise system security or data integrity.

 

40. How can you remove a virus?





ANSWER = (A) Run reputable antivirus/antimalware tools and follow removal instructions
Explain:- Use updated security tools; in severe cases, restore from backups or reinstall OS.

 

41. Can viruses return after removal?





ANSWER = (B) Yes, if the underlying vulnerability is not fixed or backups are infected
Explain:- Re-infection can occur if the cause isn't addressed; keep software patched and restore clean backups.

 

42. Should you contact a professional if a virus removal is difficult?





ANSWER = (A) Yes, contact a professional or support if removal is beyond your skills
Explain:- For complex infections, professional help can prevent data loss and ensure complete cleanup.

 

43. If a printer is not working, what's a first simple step?





ANSWER = (A) Check connections, power, paper, and ink/toner status
Explain:- Basic checks often resolve common printer issues before deeper troubleshooting.

 

44. Why might prints be faded or light?





ANSWER = (A) Low ink/toner, incorrect print settings, or blocked nozzles
Explain:- These are typical causes; running a nozzle check or replacing cartridges can help.

 

45. If you need model-specific help for a device, what is best?





ANSWER = (A) Consult the device manual, manufacturer's support site, or model-specific forums
Explain:- Manufacturer documentation and model-specific resources give accurate instructions and drivers.

 

46. Why disable startup programs?





ANSWER = (A) To speed up boot time and reduce background resource use
Explain:- Disabling unnecessary startup apps improves boot speed and frees memory/CPU.

 

47. Can you disable antivirus or system programs safely?





ANSWER = (A) It's risky; avoid disabling security software unless troubleshooting and re-enable afterward
Explain:- Disabling protections exposes you to threats; do it only temporarily if required.

 

48. Will disabling startup programs delete them?





ANSWER = (A) No, disabling prevents auto-start but doesn't uninstall them
Explain:- Disabled programs remain installed and can be launched manually.

 

49. How do you know which programs are safe to disable at startup?





ANSWER = (A) Research the program — if it's nonessential (update helpers, cloud sync, updaters) it can often be disabled
Explain:- Check program names and vendor info; avoid disabling security or hardware-related services.

 

50. What is the best upgrade for an old computer to improve everyday performance?





ANSWER = (A) Replace HDD with an SSD and add more RAM where possible
Explain:- Upgrading to an SSD and increasing RAM yields the most noticeable responsiveness improvements for older systems.

 

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