600+ Desktop Support Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

DNS stands for Domain Name System. It is a system that translates domain names into IP addresses.

• DNS is like a phonebook for the internet

• It helps to locate websites by translating domain names into IP addresses

• DNS works through a hierarchical system of servers

• There are different types of DNS records such as A, CNAME, MX, etc.

• DNS caching helps to speed up the process of resolving domain names

Outlook is a popular email client and personal information manager developed by Microsoft.

• Outlook is used for managing emails, calendars, contacts, tasks, and notes.

• To configure Outlook, you need to have the email account details such as email address, username, password, and server settings.

• Open Outlook and go to the File tab, then click on Add Account.

• Enter your email address and click on Connect.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to enter your username, password, and server...read more

The black screen issue can be caused by various factors such as hardware failure, software issues, or incorrect display settings.

• Check if the monitor is properly connected and powered on

• Verify if the graphics card is functioning correctly

• Restart the computer and check if the issue persists

• Update or reinstall display drivers

• Check for any software conflicts or malware infections

• Adjust display settings such as resolution or refresh rate

The latest OS is macOS Big Sur (11.0.1) for Mac and Windows 10 (20H2) for PC.

• macOS Big Sur was released on November 12, 2020 and features a redesigned interface and improved performance.

• Windows 10 (20H2) was released on October 20, 2020 and includes new features like a refreshed Start menu and improved notifications.

• Other recent OS releases include iOS 14 for Apple mobile devices and Android 11 for Android devices.

To retrieve data when the OS crashes, use data recovery tools or boot from a live CD/USB. BIOS is firmware that initializes hardware. Network printer configuration involves connecting to the printer's IP address. Domain DNS IP DHCP are components of a network infrastructure.

• Use data recovery tools or boot from a live CD/USB to retrieve data when the OS crashes

• BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is firmware that initializes hardware during the boot process

• To configure a network p...read more

An incident is an unplanned interruption to an IT service or reduction in the quality of an IT service. A service request is a formal request from a user for something to be provided.

• An incident is a disruption to normal operation that requires immediate attention to restore service.

• A service request is a formal request from a user for information, advice, a standard change, or access to a service.

• Examples: Incident - server outage, Service request - password reset

SMTP - 25, POP - 110, IMAP - 143

• SMTP uses port 25 for sending emails

• POP uses port 110 for receiving emails

• IMAP uses port 143 for accessing emails

BSOD stands for Blue Screen of Death, OST and PST files are Outlook data files, and Outlook is an email client application.

• BSOD is a Windows operating system error screen that appears when a system crash occurs

• OST (Offline Storage Table) and PST (Personal Storage Table) files are data files used by Microsoft Outlook to store emails, contacts, calendar items, etc.

• Outlook is an email client application developed by Microsoft for managing emails, calendars, contacts, tasks, and ...read more

OS is the operating system, AD is Active Directory. Backup can be done using various methods. Network printer can be configured using IP address or hostname.

• OS is the software that manages computer hardware and software resources.

• AD is a directory service that stores information about objects on a network.

• Backup can be done using tools like Windows Backup, third-party backup software, or cloud backup services.

• Network printer can be configured using its IP address or hostname,...read more

The system typically restarts multiple times during an OS installation process.

• System may restart multiple times to complete different stages of the installation process

• Restarting allows for necessary updates and configurations to take effect

• Examples include Windows OS installations which may require several restarts

System backup can be taken using various methods depending on the type of system and data.

• Identify the type of system and data to be backed up

• Choose a backup method such as full, incremental or differential

• Select a backup location such as external hard drive or cloud storage

• Schedule regular backups to ensure data is always up to date

• Test the backup to ensure it can be restored in case of a system failure

Operating systems manage computer hardware and software, providing a user interface and enabling application execution.

• 1. System Software: Manages hardware and software resources (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).

• 2. Application Software: Performs specific tasks for users (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop).

• 3. Real-Time Operating Systems (RTOS): Used in embedded systems for time-sensitive tasks (e.g., VxWorks, FreeRTOS).

• 4. Network Operating Systems: Manages network resources...read more

Cloud computing is the delivery of computing services over the internet.

• Types of cloud computing include public, private, and hybrid clouds.

• Public clouds are owned and operated by third-party providers, while private clouds are dedicated to a single organization.

• Hybrid clouds combine public and private clouds to allow for greater flexibility and scalability.

• Examples of cloud computing services include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.

To share a network printer, install the printer driver on the host computer and share it with other computers on the network.

• Install the printer driver on the host computer

• Connect the printer to the host computer and turn it on

• Go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers > right-click on the printer > Printer properties > Sharing tab

• Check the box 'Share this printer'

• Give the printer a share name

• Click OK

• On the client computer, go to Control Panel > Devices and Printers > Add a p...read more

ITIL stands for Information Technology Infrastructure Library. It is a framework for IT service management.

• ITIL provides guidelines for IT service management processes and procedures.

• It helps organizations to align their IT services with business needs.

• ITIL consists of five core publications: Service Strategy, Service Design, Service Transition, Service Operation, and Continual Service Improvement.

• ITIL certification is widely recognized in the IT industry and can enhance care...read more

DNS is a service that translates domain names into IP addresses, while DHCP is a protocol that assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.

• DNS stands for Domain Name System

• DNS translates domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses (e.g., 192.168.1.1)

• DNS allows users to access websites and other resources using easy-to-remember domain names instead of IP addresses

• DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

• DHCP automatically assigns IP addresses, subnet mask...read more

A domain is a group of computers and devices on a network that share a common set of rules and procedures.

• A domain is a logical grouping of computers, users, and resources that share a common security database.

• It allows for centralized management of users, computers, and resources.

• To join a domain, you need to have administrative credentials and the computer must be connected to the network.

• You can join a domain by going to System Properties > Computer Name > Change > Domain ...read more

To rectify a network issue, identify the root cause by checking hardware, software, and network configurations.

• Check physical connections and cables

• Verify network settings and configurations

• Use network diagnostic tools to identify issues

• Check for software updates and patches

• Investigate potential security breaches or malware infections

Private networks are restricted to a specific group of users while public networks are open to everyone.

• Private networks are commonly used in businesses, schools, and homes to share resources within a limited group of people.

• Public networks are accessible to anyone and are commonly used in public places like coffee shops, airports, and libraries.

• Private networks are more secure than public networks as they have restricted access and are protected by firewalls and other securi...read more

Incremental backup only backs up changes made since the last backup, while decremental backup backs up all changes made since the last full backup.

• Incremental backup only backs up changes made since the last backup

• Decremental backup backs up all changes made since the last full backup

• Incremental backup is faster and requires less storage space

• Decremental backup is slower and requires more storage space

• Incremental backup is useful for daily backups

• Decremental backup is useful ...read more

Desktop Support Engineers provide technical assistance to users, troubleshoot issues, and maintain computer systems.

• Provide technical assistance to users for hardware and software issues

• Troubleshoot and resolve technical problems with desktop computers, laptops, printers, and other peripherals

• Install, configure, and update software applications and operating systems

• Maintain and update computer systems to ensure optimal performance

• Train users on basic computer functions and be...read more

A shared printer is connected to a single computer and shared over a network, while a network printer is directly connected to the network.

• Shared printer is connected to a single computer and shared over a network

• Network printer is directly connected to the network

• Shared printer requires the host computer to be turned on for printing

• Network printer can be accessed by multiple users without relying on a single computer

There are three types of networks: LAN, WAN, and MAN.

• LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that covers a small area like a home, office, or building.

• WAN (Wide Area Network) is a network that covers a large geographical area like a city, country, or even the world.

• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network) is a network that covers a larger area than LAN but smaller than WAN, typically a city or a campus.

• Other types of networks include WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network), CAN (Campus Area ...read more

Outlook configuration and troubleshooting on exchange and O365.

• For Exchange, check if the user has the correct permissions and mailbox size limit

• For O365, check if the user has the correct license and if the account is synced properly

• Check if the Outlook profile is corrupt and try creating a new one

• Check if there are any add-ins causing issues

• Check if there are any network connectivity issues

• Check if there are any updates available for Outlook or the operating system

Tools for backup include software, hardware, and cloud-based solutions.

• Backup software such as Acronis, Veeam, and Backup Exec

• Hardware solutions like tape drives, external hard drives, and network-attached storage (NAS)

• Cloud-based backup services like Amazon S3, Google Drive, and Microsoft OneDrive

• Backup generators and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) to ensure power continuity

• Backup scripts and automation tools to schedule and manage backups

The interview questions cover topics such as the use of switches, OS installation, IP OSI model, and other basic concepts.

• Switches are used to connect devices in a network and facilitate communication between them.

• OS installation involves the process of installing an operating system on a computer or server.

• The IP OSI model is a conceptual model that describes the communication functions of a network.

• Other basic concepts may include network protocols, troubleshooting techniqu...read more

DHCP is a network protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network.

• Automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network

• Helps in reducing manual configuration errors

• Uses a lease mechanism to manage IP address assignments

• Commonly used in home networks, corporate networks, and internet service providers

Creating a bootable USB drive involves formatting the USB and copying the OS installation files to it.

• 1. Choose a USB drive with sufficient storage (at least 8GB).

• 2. Download the OS image file (e.g., Windows ISO).

• 3. Use a tool like Rufus or UNetbootin to create the bootable drive.

• 4. Select the USB drive in the tool and choose the downloaded ISO file.

• 5. Start the process and wait for it to complete, then safely eject the USB.

Active Directory is a directory service developed by Microsoft for Windows domain networks.

• Centralized database for managing network resources

• Stores information about users, computers, and other network objects

• Allows for authentication and authorization of users

• Enables administrators to assign policies, deploy software, and apply updates

• Supports hierarchical structure with domains, trees, and forests

Memory dump logs store in the hard disk or SSD of the computer.

• Memory dump logs are created when a system crashes or encounters a critical error.

• These logs contain information about the state of the system at the time of the crash.

• They can be used by support engineers to diagnose and troubleshoot issues.

• The location of the logs may vary depending on the operating system and configuration.

DHCP assigns IP addresses to devices on a network, while DNS translates domain names to IP addresses.

• DHCP eliminates the need for manual IP address configuration

• DNS allows users to access websites using domain names instead of IP addresses

• DHCP and DNS work together to ensure efficient network communication

• DHCP leases IP addresses to devices for a set period of time

• DNS uses a hierarchical system to translate domain names to IP addresses

CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. It is the brain of a computer that performs all the processing tasks.

• CPU is the main component of a computer that executes instructions and performs calculations.

• It is responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing instructions stored in the computer's memory.

• CPU speed is measured in gigahertz (GHz) and determines how fast it can process data.

• Examples of CPUs include Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 5, etc.

PST and OST are file formats used by Microsoft Outlook to store email data.

• PST stands for Personal Storage Table and is used to store email data on a local computer.

• OST stands for Offline Storage Table and is used to store email data when Outlook is used in cached mode.

• PST files can be imported and exported to transfer email data between computers or to backup data.

• OST files are automatically created when Outlook is used in cached mode and can be rebuilt if corrupted.

• Both PST...read more

A domain is a group of computers and devices on a network that are administered as a unit with common rules and procedures.

• A domain is a logical grouping of network resources such as computers, printers, and servers.

• It allows for centralized management of users, computers, and security policies.

• Domains are typically used in business environments to provide a secure and organized network infrastructure.

• An example of a domain name is google.com, which represents a group of serv...read more

DNS and DHCP are types of network protocols used for communication and management of network resources.

• DNS (Domain Name System) is used to translate domain names into IP addresses.

• DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is used to assign IP addresses to devices on a network.

• Other types of network protocols include TCP/IP, FTP, HTTP, SMTP, and SNMP.

• TCP/IP is the most commonly used protocol for communication over the internet.

• FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used for transfer...read more

TCP stands for Transmission Control Protocol, a core protocol of the Internet protocol suite. It ensures reliable and ordered delivery of data.

• TCP is a connection-oriented protocol that provides reliable communication between devices on a network.

• If my system is under a Trojan attack, the first step I would take is to disconnect the infected system from the network to prevent further spread of the malware.

• OST (Offline Storage Table) is a file format used by Microsoft Outlook ...read more

OS stands for Operating System. Color coding in LAN cables is used to identify the type of cable and its purpose.

• An OS is a software that manages computer hardware and software resources.

• Examples of OS include Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.

• Color coding in LAN cables follows the TIA/EIA-568 standard.

• The color coding for Cat5e and Cat6 cables are different.

• Color coding is used to identify the type of cable and its purpose, such as data or voice transmission.

Active Directory is a directory service developed by Microsoft for Windows domain networks.

• Centralized management of network resources

• Authentication and authorization of users and computers

• Organizes objects like users, computers, and printers in a hierarchical structure

• Group policies can be applied to control user and computer settings

• Allows for single sign-on access to various resources

CPU 4BPP refers to a graphics mode that supports only 16 colors.

• 4BPP stands for 4 bits per pixel, which means each pixel can have one of 16 colors

• This graphics mode is outdated and not commonly used anymore

• The problem could be related to outdated hardware or software that does not support this mode

Yes, I have experience with router configuration.

• I have configured routers for network connectivity and security purposes.

• I am familiar with setting up VLANs, DHCP, NAT, and firewall rules on routers.

• I have troubleshooted router issues such as connectivity problems and performance issues.

• I have worked with routers from various manufacturers like Cisco, Juniper, and Ubiquiti.

BIOS is an older firmware interface, while UEFI is a newer and more advanced replacement for BIOS.

• BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System, while UEFI stands for Unified Extensible Firmware Interface.

• BIOS uses the Master Boot Record (MBR) partitioning scheme, while UEFI uses the GUID Partition Table (GPT) scheme.

• UEFI supports larger hard drives and faster boot times compared to BIOS.

• UEFI has a graphical user interface, while BIOS typically has a text-based interface.

• UEFI is ...read more

POST refers to Power-On Self Test in computer hardware.

• POST is a diagnostic testing sequence that a computer's BIOS runs to determine if the computer hardware is functioning properly.

• It checks the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and other hardware components for errors.

• If any issues are detected during POST, the computer may display error messages or beep codes to indicate the problem.

• POST results are typically displayed on the screen during the boot process.

• POST is essential for ...read more

Outlook is an email client used for managing emails, calendars, and contacts. It can be configured and backed up to ensure data security.

• Outlook is a Microsoft email client used for sending, receiving, and organizing emails.

• It also includes features like calendar management, task management, and contact management.

• To configure Outlook, you need to provide your email address, username, password, and server settings.

• Outlook can be configured to work with various email protocols...read more

A subnet is a smaller network within a larger network. The subnet of 120 depends on the subnet mask.

• Subnet is a way to divide a larger network into smaller ones

• Subnet mask determines the size of the subnet

• Subnetting helps in efficient use of IP addresses

• The subnet of 120 depends on the subnet mask used

Data backup when OS is corrupt

• Boot from a live CD/USB and backup data to an external drive

• Use a data recovery software to extract data from the corrupt OS

• Connect the hard drive to another computer and backup data

• Use cloud storage services to backup important data regularly

The domain layer of a network refers to the logical grouping of computers, servers, and devices that share a common set of rules and policies.

• The domain layer is responsible for managing user authentication and access control.

• It provides centralized administration and security for network resources.

• Examples of domain layers include Active Directory in Windows networks and LDAP in Linux networks.