Computer Knowledge / Computer Aptitude
Scope
Computer Knowledge tests fundamentals of hardware, software, operating systems, networking, databases, cyber security and office applications, with banking-specific IT awareness. Expect questions on input/output devices, memory, shortcuts, internet protocols, DBMS keys, malware and digital payment security.
Core rules
- 1 byte = 8 bits; KB, MB, GB and TB are storage units. ROM is non-volatile; RAM is volatile.
- A database primary key uniquely identifies a row; a foreign key links to a primary key in another table.
- HTTP/HTTPS, FTP, SMTP and DNS have distinct functions. HTTPS adds encryption.
- Phishing, vishing and smishing are social-engineering attacks; a firewall filters network traffic.
Worked example
Convert binary 1011 to decimal. Place values from the right are 1, 2, 4, 8. Add 8 + 0 + 2 + 1 = 11. The answer is 11. The common error is to read the binary digits left to right and assign place values in the wrong order.
Traps
Confusing RAM and ROM; counting bits as bytes; mixing primary and foreign keys; and assuming antivirus software prevents every fraud, including authorised push-payment scams.