600+ Desktop Support Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

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

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

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

DNS is a system that translates domain names to IP addresses. DNS server is a computer that stores DNS records.

• DNS stands for Domain Name System

• DNS server stores DNS records which contain information about domain names and their corresponding IP addresses

• DNS resolution process involves querying DNS servers to find the IP address of a domain name

• DNS can be configured on a local network or on a public network

• DNS can be configured using tools like DNS Manager, PowerShell, or com...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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

My expected CTC is negotiable based on the job responsibilities, company size, and benefits package.

• My expected CTC is based on my experience, skills, and industry standards.

• I am open to discussing the salary range during the interview process.

• I am looking for a competitive salary that reflects my qualifications and contributions to the team.

I would first try to restart the laptop and check for any error messages. If that doesn't work, I would attempt to boot into safe mode or use recovery options.

• Attempt to restart the laptop and check for any error messages

• Try to boot into safe mode

• Use recovery options such as system restore or startup repair

• If necessary, seek assistance from IT support team

To configure operating system in a Windows computer, you can access the Control Panel and make changes to settings.

• Access Control Panel to make changes to system settings

• Configure user accounts, network settings, display settings, etc.

• Install and update drivers for hardware components

• Set up security features like firewall and antivirus software

DHCP is a network protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses to devices within a network. A scope in DHCP defines a range of IP addresses that can be assigned to devices.

• DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

• It allows devices to obtain IP addresses and other network configuration information automatically

• A DHCP scope is a range of IP addresses that can be assigned to devices on a network

• Scopes can also include additional configuration options such as subnet...read more

The two options that pop up after choosing format option on a Pen Drive are Quick Format and Full Format.

• Quick Format: This option erases the file allocation table of the drive, making the data inaccessible, but does not actually delete the data. It is faster than Full Format.

• Full Format: This option erases all data on the drive by writing zeros to every sector. It is a more thorough and time-consuming process compared to Quick Format.

The issue could be due to a hardware problem, software conflict, or a corrupt system file.

• Check for any recent software installations or updates that may have caused conflicts

• Look for any hardware issues such as overheating or faulty components

• Check system logs for any error messages that may indicate a corrupt system file

• Consider running diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the restarts

Technical issues on desktop support engineer involve troubleshooting hardware and software problems on desktop computers.

• Troubleshooting hardware issues such as faulty components, connectivity problems, and hardware failures

• Resolving software issues like operating system errors, application crashes, and driver conflicts

• Providing support for network connectivity issues, printer problems, and peripheral device malfunctions

BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It is a firmware that initializes hardware during the boot process.

• BIOS is responsible for initializing and testing hardware components during the boot process.

• It provides a platform for the operating system to run on.

• It also contains settings for hardware configuration and security.

• BIOS can be accessed and configured through a setup utility.

• Examples of BIOS manufacturers include AMI, Phoenix, and Award.

I would start by checking physical connections, then move on to checking network settings and running diagnostic tools.

• Check physical connections (cables, ports)

• Verify network settings (IP address, subnet mask, gateway)

• Run network diagnostic tools (ping, traceroute)

• Check for any network outages or maintenance notifications

• Restart networking devices (modem, router)

Office 16 is a standalone version of Microsoft Office, while Office 365 is a subscription-based service that includes the latest Office applications.

• Office 16 is a one-time purchase, while Office 365 is a subscription service.

• Office 16 does not receive feature updates, while Office 365 receives regular updates.

• Office 365 includes cloud storage and collaboration tools, while Office 16 does not.

• Office 365 allows access to the latest versions of Office applications, while Office...read more

Answers to technical questions related to Desktop Support Engineer role.

• To check SMPS, use a multimeter to measure voltage output

• Color coding of straight through cable is: Orange-White, Orange, Green-White, Blue, Blue-White, Green, Brown-White, Brown

• CMOS battery voltage should be around 3 volts

• Virtualization is the creation of a virtual version of something, such as an operating system or server

A network is a group of interconnected devices that can communicate with each other. A server is a computer that provides services to other devices.

• A network is a collection of devices that are connected together to share resources and information.

• A server is a computer that provides services to other devices on the network.

• There are several types of servers, including file servers, web servers, email servers, and database servers.

• File servers store and manage files that can ...read more