60+ Hardware & Networking Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

The first troubleshooting step is to check the network connection and restart the system.

• Check network cables and connections

• Restart the system

• Check for any software updates or firewall settings

• Try accessing the internet from another device

• Contact the internet service provider

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 servers store information about domain names and their corresponding IP addresses

• DNS resolution can be recursive or iterative

• Examples of DNS servers include Google DNS and OpenDNS

There are several types of VPNs, including remote access VPN, site-to-site VPN, and client-to-site VPN.

• Remote access VPN allows individual users to connect to a private network remotely.

• Site-to-site VPN connects two or more networks together over the internet.

• Client-to-site VPN enables clients to securely access a private network from a remote location.

• Other types include MPLS VPN, SSL VPN, and IPsec VPN.

• Examples of VPN protocols used are PPTP, L2TP/IPsec, OpenVPN, and SSTP.

OSI layers work with various protocols including IP, TCP, DNS, and DHCP.

• OSI layers are a conceptual model for understanding how communication systems work.

• Layer 3 (Network layer) works with IP protocol for routing packets.

• Layer 4 (Transport layer) works with TCP protocol for reliable data transfer.

• Layer 7 (Application layer) works with DNS and DHCP protocols for name resolution and IP address allocation.

• Other protocols used in OSI layers include FTP, HTTP, SMTP, and SNMP.

RJ45 stands for Registered Jack 45. It is a standard connector used for Ethernet networking. It has 8 pins.

• RJ45 is a physical connector used for Ethernet networking.

• It is commonly used to connect computers, routers, switches, and other network devices.

• The full form of RJ45 is Registered Jack 45.

• It is also known as 8P8C (8 positions, 8 contacts) connector.

• RJ45 connectors are used with twisted pair cables, such as Cat5e or Cat6.

• The pins in an RJ45 connector are numbered 1 to 8....read more

Switching intervlan, router on a stick, trunking, and STP are networking concepts used to manage traffic between VLANs and prevent loops in a network.

• Switching intervlan involves allowing communication between different VLANs on a switch.

• Router on a stick is a setup where a single router interface is used to route traffic between VLANs.

• Trunking is the process of carrying multiple VLAN traffic over a single link between switches.

• STP (Spanning Tree Protocol) is used to prevent ...read more

Network topology refers to the arrangement of nodes and connections in a computer network.

• Network topology determines how devices are connected and communicate with each other.

• Common network topologies include bus, star, ring, mesh, and hybrid.

• Bus topology uses a single cable to connect all devices in a linear fashion.

• Star topology has a central hub or switch connecting all devices.

• Ring topology connects devices in a circular loop.

• Mesh topology provides redundant connections ...read more

BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System.

• BIOS is a firmware that initializes hardware components during the boot process.

• It provides the computer with basic instructions for interacting with devices like the keyboard, mouse, and hard drive.

• BIOS also performs a power-on self-test (POST) to check if all hardware components are functioning properly.

• It is stored on a ROM chip on the motherboard and can be updated by flashing a new version.

• Examples of BIOS manufacturers include A...read more

SATA cable is used to connect storage devices like hard drives and SSDs to a computer's motherboard.

• SATA cable is used to transfer data between storage devices and the computer.

• It is commonly used to connect hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), and optical drives to the motherboard.

• SATA cables have a high data transfer rate, typically up to 6 gigabits per second (Gbps).

• They have a small and thin design, making them easy to install and manage within a computer case.

• SATA cab...read more

Virtualization is the creation of a virtual version of something, such as an operating system, a server, a storage device, or network resources.

• Virtualization allows multiple operating systems to run on a single physical machine

• It enables better utilization of hardware resources

• Virtualization can improve disaster recovery and backup processes

• Examples include VMware, Hyper-V, and VirtualBox

TCP/IP is a set of protocols used for communication over the internet. It works in the transport and network layers of the OSI model.

• TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol.

• TCP is responsible for ensuring reliable transmission of data between devices.

• IP is responsible for routing data packets between networks.

• TCP/IP works in the transport and network layers of the OSI model.

• It provides end-to-end connectivity and error-free data transmission.

• Examples...read more

SSD, CMOS, motherboard, and processor family are all essential components of a computer system.

• SSD (Solid State Drive) is a storage device that uses flash memory to store data.

• CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) is a type of chip that stores the BIOS settings.

• Motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the components of a computer.

• Processor family refers to a group of CPUs that share similar architecture and features.

• System requirements vary depending o...read more

To install ads, you need to create ad campaigns, set targeting options, and monitor performance.

• Create ad campaigns using platforms like Google Ads or Facebook Ads

• Set targeting options based on demographics, interests, and behavior of target audience

• Monitor ad performance regularly and make adjustments as needed

Serverless computing in AWS is a cloud computing model where the cloud provider manages the infrastructure and automatically allocates resources as needed.

• AWS Lambda is a popular serverless computing service in AWS

• Serverless computing allows developers to focus on writing code without worrying about infrastructure management

• It can be cost-effective as users only pay for the actual usage of resources

• Serverless computing can be used for various applications such as web and mobi...read more

Serverless computing allows developers to build and run applications without the need for managing servers.

• Serverless computing is a cloud computing model where the cloud provider manages the infrastructure and automatically allocates resources as needed.

• It allows developers to focus on writing code without worrying about server management.

• It is cost-effective as users only pay for the actual usage of resources.

• Examples of serverless computing include AWS Lambda, Azure Functi...read more

The OSI model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or computing system into seven different layers.

• The OSI model stands for Open Systems Interconnection model.

• It helps in understanding how different networking protocols work together.

• The seven layers are: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, and Application.

• Each layer has its own specific functions and communicates with the adjacent layers.

• For example, HTT...read more

The working voltage of SMPS in a motherboard is typically DC.

• SMPS stands for Switched Mode Power Supply.

• SMPS converts AC voltage from the wall outlet to DC voltage for the motherboard.

• The working voltage of SMPS can vary depending on the specific motherboard and power requirements.

• Common working voltages for SMPS in motherboards include 12V, 5V, and 3.3V.

• These voltages are used to power various components on the motherboard such as the CPU, RAM, and peripherals.

A switch is a networking device that connects devices together in a local area network (LAN) and forwards data packets between them.

• Switches operate at the data link layer of the OSI model

• They use MAC addresses to forward data packets to the correct destination device

• Switches can improve network performance by reducing network congestion and collisions

• Examples of switches include Cisco Catalyst, HP ProCurve, and Netgear ProSafe

To set manual up assgen, follow these steps:

• Open the assgen software

• Click on the 'Manual Setup' option

• Enter the required parameters such as IP address, subnet mask, gateway, DNS server, etc.

• Save the settings and exit the software

Yes

• Yes, I am familiar with basic troubleshooting techniques.

• I have experience in identifying and resolving hardware and networking issues.

• I am skilled in diagnosing problems related to computer hardware, network connectivity, and peripherals.

• I can troubleshoot common issues such as network connectivity problems, hardware failures, and software conflicts.

• I am proficient in using diagnostic tools and techniques to identify and resolve problems efficiently.

Network topology refers to the arrangement of nodes and connections in a network.

• Bus topology: all devices are connected to a single cable

• Star topology: all devices are connected to a central hub or switch

• Ring topology: devices are connected in a circular loop

• Mesh topology: devices are connected to each other in a decentralized manner

• Tree topology: devices are arranged in a hierarchical structure

Layer 2 is the data link layer of OSI model, while layer 2 switching is a process of forwarding data packets between network segments.

• Layer 2 is responsible for framing, error checking, and flow control.

• Layer 2 switching is faster than layer 3 switching as it operates at the data link layer.

• Layer 2 switches use MAC addresses to forward data packets within a network segment.

• Layer 2 switching is used in LANs to improve network performance and reduce congestion.

• Examples of layer...read more

OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) is a routing protocol used in IP networks.

• OSPF is a link-state protocol that uses Dijkstra's algorithm to calculate the shortest path between two nodes.

• It is used to determine the best path for data to travel in a network.

• OSPF routers exchange information about their connected networks and use this information to build a topology map of the network.

• OSPF has several states including Down, Init, 2-Way, Exstart, Exchange, Loading, and Full.

• The Ful...read more

OSI model is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a communication system into seven different layers.

• OSI model stands for Open Systems Interconnection model.

• It was developed by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in 1984.

• The model divides the communication process into seven layers, each responsible for specific functions.

• The layers are: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, and Application.

• Each layer interac...read more

Routers and switches are networking devices used to connect devices in a network.

• Routers are used to connect multiple networks together and route traffic between them.

• Switches are used to connect devices within a network and direct traffic between them.

• Routers operate at the network layer (layer 3) of the OSI model, while switches operate at the data link layer (layer 2).

• Examples of routers include Cisco routers, Juniper routers, and TP-Link routers.

• Examples of switches inclu...read more

There are mainly three types of switches: LAN, WAN, and SAN switches.

• LAN switches are used to connect devices within a local area network.

• WAN switches are used to connect devices over a wide area network.

• SAN switches are used to connect servers and storage devices in a storage area network.

• Other types of switches include managed switches, unmanaged switches, and PoE switches.

• Managed switches allow for more control and configuration options.

• Unmanaged switches are plug-and-play...read more

Active Directory Services (ADS) in Windows Server is used for managing users, groups, computers, and other resources in a network environment.

• Install Active Directory Domain Services (AD DS) role on Windows Server

• Configure domain controllers and create Active Directory domains

• Manage users, groups, and computers using Active Directory Users and Computers (ADUC)

• Implement Group Policies for centralized management of network resources

LAN is a computer network that connects devices within a limited area such as a home, office, or building.

• LAN stands for Local Area Network

• It is a network of computers and other devices that are connected within a limited area

• LAN is used for sharing resources such as printers, files, and internet access

• It can be wired or wireless

• Examples of LAN include home networks, office networks, and school networks

Serverless computing is a cloud computing model where the cloud provider manages the infrastructure and automatically allocates resources as needed.

• Serverless computing allows developers to focus on writing code without worrying about infrastructure management.

• It is event-driven and scales automatically based on demand.

• Examples of serverless computing include AWS Lambda, Azure Functions, and Google Cloud Functions.

Serverless is a cloud computing model where the cloud provider manages the infrastructure and automatically allocates resources.

• Serverless computing is event-driven and scales automatically

• In serverless, the user only pays for the actual usage of resources

• Cloud computing involves managing and maintaining servers and infrastructure

• Examples of cloud providers include AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud

• Examples of serverless services include AWS Lambda, Azure Functions, and Google Clou...read more

LAN stands for Local Area Network.

• LAN is a computer network that connects devices within a limited area such as a home, office, or building.

• It allows for the sharing of resources and information between connected devices.

• LANs are typically faster and more secure than wide area networks (WANs).

• Examples of LAN technologies include Ethernet, Wi-Fi, and Token Ring.

WAN stands for Wide Area Network.

• WAN is a computer network that spans a large geographical area.

• It connects multiple local area networks (LANs) together.

• WANs are typically used by organizations to connect their branch offices or remote locations.

• Internet is the largest example of a WAN.

• WANs use various technologies such as leased lines, satellites, and public networks.

A network is a group of interconnected devices that can communicate and share resources.

• Networks can be wired or wireless

• Devices on a network can include computers, printers, routers, and servers

• Networks can be local (LAN) or wide area (WAN)

• Networks can be used for sharing files, printers, and internet access

• Networks can be secured with firewalls and other security measures

DHCP assigns IP addresses dynamically, while static IP addresses are manually configured.

• DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol

• DHCP automatically assigns IP addresses to devices on a network

• Static IP addresses are manually configured by a network administrator

• Static IP addresses do not change unless manually updated

• DHCP is commonly used in home networks and small businesses

• Example: DHCP assigns IP address 192.168.1.10 to a computer on a network

• Example: Static IP ...read more

The internet is a global network of interconnected computers, while a network is a collection of computers and devices connected together to share resources.

• Internet is a worldwide network of computers that communicate with each other using standard protocols.

• Network is a group of interconnected devices that can communicate and share resources.

• Internet allows users to access information, communicate, and collaborate globally.

• Networks can be wired or wireless, local (LAN) or w...read more

To create a member server, you need to join it to an existing domain.

• Ensure the server is connected to the network

• Access the server's properties and change the computer name to match the domain

• Join the server to the domain by entering domain credentials

• Restart the server for changes to take effect

Hardware refers to physical components of a computer system while networking involves connecting multiple devices to share resources.

• Hardware includes components such as CPU, RAM, hard drive, motherboard, etc.

• Networking involves connecting devices through cables or wireless connections to share resources like printers, files, and internet access.

• Networking protocols include TCP/IP, DNS, DHCP, etc.

• Hardware and networking engineers are responsible for maintaining and troublesho...read more

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 servers store information about domain names and their corresponding IP addresses

• DNS resolution can be recursive or iterative

• Examples of DNS servers include Google DNS and OpenDNS

STP Protocol stands for Spanning Tree Protocol which is used to prevent network loops in a switched network.

• STP Protocol is used to prevent network loops in a switched network

• It is a Layer 2 protocol that runs on switches

• STP Protocol selects a root bridge and disables redundant paths to prevent loops

• It uses Bridge Protocol Data Units (BPDUs) to communicate between switches

• STP Protocol has different versions such as STP, RSTP, and MSTP

IP concepts refer to the fundamental principles and protocols used in the Internet Protocol suite.

• IP stands for Internet Protocol, which is a set of rules governing the format of data packets and their transmission over a network.

• IP addresses are unique numerical identifiers assigned to devices connected to a network.

• IPv4 is the most widely used version of IP, using 32-bit addresses.

• IPv6 is the newer version of IP, using 128-bit addresses to accommodate the growing number of ...read more

LAN security refers to the measures taken to protect a local area network from unauthorized access and attacks.

• LAN security involves implementing firewalls, antivirus software, and intrusion detection systems.

• Access control measures such as passwords, biometric authentication, and encryption are also important.

• Regular updates and patches to software and hardware can help prevent vulnerabilities.

• Examples of LAN security breaches include unauthorized access to sensitive data, m...read more

TCP is a connection-oriented protocol while UDP is a connectionless protocol.

• TCP provides reliable, ordered, and error-checked delivery of data while UDP does not guarantee any of these.

• TCP is slower but more reliable while UDP is faster but less reliable.

• TCP is used for applications that require high reliability and accuracy such as email, file transfer, and web browsing while UDP is used for applications that require speed and efficiency such as online gaming and video stre...read more

BGP stands for Border Gateway Protocol and AS stands for Autonomous System. BGP is a routing protocol used to exchange routing information between different networks and AS is a unique identifier for a group of networks under a single administrative control.

• BGP is used to connect different autonomous systems (AS) on the internet.

• AS is a unique identifier assigned to a group of networks under a single administrative control.

• BGP is used to exchange routing information between d...read more

Outlook configuration involves setting up email accounts, managing folders, and customizing settings.

• Outlook configuration includes adding email accounts from various providers such as Gmail, Yahoo, or Exchange.

• Users can create and manage folders to organize their emails efficiently.

• Customizing settings involves adjusting notification preferences, signature, and rules for email management.

• Outlook also allows users to set up automatic replies and manage calendar events.

• Example...read more

OS can be downloaded from official websites or through installation media.

• Visit the official website of the OS you want to download

• Choose the appropriate version and language

• Download the ISO file or create a bootable USB drive

• Insert the installation media into your computer and follow the prompts

IDHCP stands for Internet Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol.

• IDHCP is a protocol used to assign IP addresses dynamically to devices on a network.

• It allows devices to obtain necessary network configuration information automatically.

• IDHCP servers are responsible for assigning IP addresses and other network parameters.

• It is commonly used in home and business networks.

• IDHCP can also be used to assign IP addresses to virtual machines in a virtualized environment.

LAN stands for Local Area Network. BGP stands for Border Gateway Protocol.

• LAN is a computer network that connects devices within a limited area such as a home, office, or building.

• BGP is a routing protocol used to exchange routing information between different networks on the internet.

• BGP is used by internet service providers to connect their networks to other networks.

• BGP helps in finding the best path for data to travel between networks.

• Examples of LAN include Wi-Fi network...read more