50+ System Software Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Reverse a string in a specific format

• Split the string into an array of words

• Reverse the array

• Join the array into a string with spaces

I enjoy both single player and group games, depending on my mood and the type of game.

• I prefer single player games when I want to relax and enjoy a story-driven experience.

• I enjoy group games when I want to socialize and collaborate with others.

• Some examples of single player games I enjoy are The Witcher 3 and Skyrim.

• Some examples of group games I enjoy are Overwatch and League of Legends.

Hardware selection depends on system requirements, vendor reputation, and cost.

• Identify system requirements and ensure hardware compatibility

• Research vendor reputation and reliability

• Consider cost and budget constraints

• Evaluate vendor support and maintenance options

• Compare hardware specifications and features

• Consider future scalability and upgrade options

Selenium is a tool for automating web browsers. WebDriver is a component of Selenium. Agile is a software development methodology.

• Selenium is used for automating web browsers to test web applications.

• WebDriver is a component of Selenium that provides a programming interface to control the browser.

• Agile is a software development methodology that emphasizes iterative development and collaboration between cross-functional teams.

• findElement() is used to locate a single web elemen...read more

A pointer is a variable that stores the memory address of another variable. An array is a collection of similar data types.

• Pointers are used to manipulate memory and create dynamic data structures.

• Arrays can be one-dimensional or multi-dimensional, and are accessed using index values.

• One-dimensional arrays are like a list of items, while two-dimensional arrays are like a table with rows and columns.

• Example: int *ptr; int arr[5]; ptr = &arr[0];

• Example: char names[3][10] = {"Jo...read more

Yes, C# supports multiple inheritance through interface implementation and class inheritance.

• C# does not support multiple inheritance through class inheritance alone.

• To achieve multiple inheritance, a class can inherit from one class and implement multiple interfaces.

• Example: class MyClass : MyBaseClass, IInterface1, IInterface2 { }

DBMS is a software to manage databases while RDBMS is a type of DBMS that uses a relational model.

• DBMS stands for Database Management System while RDBMS stands for Relational Database Management System.

• DBMS can manage any type of database while RDBMS uses a relational model to manage data.

• RDBMS enforces ACID properties (Atomicity, Consistency, Isolation, Durability) while DBMS may not.

• Examples of DBMS include MongoDB, Cassandra, and Redis while examples of RDBMS include MySQL...read more

Array of pointers is an array containing memory addresses of variables, while pointer to an array is a pointer pointing to the first element of an array.

• Array of pointers can be used to store multiple strings, each string being a pointer to a character array.

• Pointer to an array can be used to access elements of an array using pointer arithmetic.

• Array of pointers can be dynamically allocated using malloc() function.

• Pointer to an array can be passed as an argument to a function...read more

Software is used in electrical engineering for designing, simulation, and control of electrical systems.

• Software is used for designing and simulating electrical circuits and systems

• Control systems for power generation and distribution are implemented using software

• Software is used for data analysis and visualization in electrical engineering

• Examples include SPICE for circuit simulation, MATLAB for control systems, and LabVIEW for data acquisition and analysis

3G and 4G are mobile network technologies. G stands for generation.

• 3G provides faster data transfer rates than 2G, while 4G provides even faster rates than 3G.

• 4G also supports advanced features like VoLTE and carrier aggregation.

• G stands for generation and refers to the evolution of mobile network technology.

• 5G is the latest generation of mobile network technology, offering even faster speeds and lower latency.

To increase profit, one can focus on increasing revenue or reducing expenses.

• Increase sales by expanding customer base or introducing new products/services

• Reduce costs by optimizing processes or negotiating better deals with suppliers

• Implement cost-cutting measures such as reducing staff or outsourcing non-core functions

• Invest in marketing and advertising to increase brand awareness and attract more customers

• Analyze financial data to identify areas of inefficiency and take co...read more

JavaScript cannot be embedded in CSS. They are separate languages used for different purposes.

• CSS is used for styling and layout of web pages

• JavaScript is used for adding interactivity and functionality to web pages

• JavaScript can be included in HTML using

Security for a web API can be provided through authentication, encryption, and rate limiting.

• Implement authentication mechanisms such as OAuth or API keys to ensure only authorized users can access the API.

• Use encryption to protect sensitive data being transmitted over the network.

• Implement rate limiting to prevent excessive requests and potential denial of service attacks.

• Regularly update and patch the API to address any security vulnerabilities.

• Monitor API usage and logs fo...read more

A pointer is a variable that stores the memory address of another variable. It is used to manipulate data indirectly.

• Pointers are used to dynamically allocate memory

• Pointers are used to pass arguments by reference

• Pointers are used to create data structures like linked lists and trees

An object is an instance of a class. A class is a blueprint for creating objects.

• An object is a data structure that contains data and methods.

• A class is a template or blueprint for creating objects.

• Objects are created from classes using the 'new' keyword.

• Classes define the properties and behaviors of objects.

• Inheritance allows classes to inherit properties and behaviors from other classes.

• Polymorphism allows objects to take on multiple forms or behaviors.

Microprocessor is a CPU on a single chip while Micro-controller is a CPU with integrated memory and peripherals.

• Microprocessor is used in general-purpose computing while Micro-controller is used in embedded systems.

• Microprocessor requires external memory and peripherals while Micro-controller has them integrated.

• Examples of Microprocessors are Intel Pentium, AMD Ryzen while examples of Micro-controllers are Arduino, Raspberry Pi.

• Microprocessors are more powerful and expensive...read more

Program to reverse a string

• Create an empty string to store the reversed string

• Iterate through the original string from end to start

• Append each character to the new string

• Return the reversed string

Data structures like stack and queue have real-life applications in various fields.

• Stack: browser history, undo functionality in text editors

• Queue: waiting in line at a grocery store, printer queue

• Linked List: train cars linked together, playlist in music apps

Slew rate is the rate at which an electrical signal changes over time.

• Slew rate measures how quickly the voltage of a signal can change.

• It is typically expressed in volts per microsecond (V/μs).

• A high slew rate indicates a signal can change rapidly, while a low slew rate indicates a slower change.

• Slew rate is important in applications where fast signal transitions are required, such as in amplifiers or digital circuits.

Hamming distance is the number of positions at which the corresponding symbols are different between two strings of equal length.

• Hamming distance is used in coding theory, information theory, and cryptography.

• It is also used in DNA analysis to measure the genetic distance between two sequences.

• For example, the Hamming distance between '10101' and '11100' is 2.

• It can be calculated by comparing each symbol in the two strings and counting the number of differences.

• Hamming distan...read more

Sasken technologies is a leading provider of cutting-edge software solutions.

• Sasken has a strong reputation for delivering high-quality software solutions.

• The company has a diverse range of clients across various industries.

• Sasken offers a great work culture and opportunities for career growth.

• The company has a strong focus on innovation and staying ahead of industry trends.

• Sasken has a proven track record of success in the system software engineering field.

Digital communication is the transmission of information through digital signals.

• Digital communication uses binary code to represent data.

• It can be done through various mediums such as wires, fiber optics, or wireless signals.

• Examples include email, text messaging, and video conferencing.

• Digital communication allows for faster and more efficient transmission of information compared to analog communication.

Search for a target value in a row-wise and column-wise sorted 2D array.

• Start from the top right corner of the array

• If the target value is less than the current element, move left

• If the target value is greater than the current element, move down

• Repeat until the target value is found or the boundaries of the array are reached

Hashmap in C/C++ stores key-value pairs using a hash function for fast retrieval.

• Hashmap uses a hash function to map keys to indices in an array.

• Collision handling is done using techniques like chaining or open addressing.

• Hashmap allows for fast insertion, deletion, and lookup of key-value pairs.

• Example: std::unordered_map in C++ implements a hashmap.

• Debugging hashmap code involves checking hash function, collision resolution, and data retrieval.

A program to print name using an array of strings.

• Declare an array of strings with the name.

• Assign the name to the array.

• Loop through the array and print each string.

Adhoc network is a decentralized wireless network formed by devices communicating directly with each other.

• No central access point

• Devices communicate directly with each other

• Can be formed temporarily

• Used in emergency situations or in areas with no existing network infrastructure

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

• Cloud computing allows users to access data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection.

• It offers scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional on-premises computing.

• Examples include Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform.

My greatest strengths include problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and strong communication abilities.

• Strong problem-solving skills - I enjoy tackling complex issues and finding creative solutions.

• Attention to detail - I am meticulous in my work to ensure accuracy and quality.

• Strong communication abilities - I can effectively convey ideas and collaborate with team members.

• Adaptability - I am able to quickly learn new technologies and adapt to changing environments.

Structures are used to group different data types together while unions are used to store only one value at a time.

• Structures allocate memory for all its members while unions allocate memory for only one member at a time

• Structures are used to represent a collection of related data while unions are used to save memory space

• Structures are accessed using dot operator while unions are accessed using arrow operator

• Example of structure: struct student { char name[20]; int age; floa...read more

A flip-flop is a digital circuit that can store a single bit of information.

• It has two stable states: 0 and 1.

• It can be used to store data, count pulses, and synchronize digital circuits.

• Examples include D flip-flop, JK flip-flop, and T flip-flop.

GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communications, a standard for mobile communication networks.

• GSM is a digital cellular network technology used for voice and data communication.

• It was first introduced in 1991 and is now widely used in over 200 countries.

• GSM uses a SIM card to identify and authenticate users on the network.

• It operates on different frequency bands depending on the region.

• GSM has been largely replaced by newer technologies like 3G and 4G.

• Examples of GSM-b...read more

An oscillator is an electronic circuit that produces a periodic, oscillating electronic signal.

• Oscillators are used in many electronic devices, such as radios, televisions, and computers.

• They are also used in clocks, watches, and other timekeeping devices.

• There are many different types of oscillators, including crystal oscillators, LC oscillators, and RC oscillators.

• Oscillators can produce signals at a wide range of frequencies, from a few hertz to many gigahertz.

• They are ess...read more

GPOS is a general-purpose operating system while RTOS is a real-time operating system.

• GPOS is designed to handle a wide range of applications while RTOS is designed to handle time-critical applications.

• GPOS has a higher latency and lower determinism compared to RTOS.

• RTOS has a smaller footprint and faster response time compared to GPOS.

• Examples of GPOS include Windows, Linux, and macOS while examples of RTOS include FreeRTOS, VxWorks, and QNX.

Gain is the increase in signal power or amplitude produced by an amplifier or other electronic device.

• Gain is a measure of amplification.

• It is the ratio of output power to input power.

• It can be expressed in decibels (dB).

• For example, if an amplifier has a gain of 10, it will increase the input signal by a factor of 10.

• Gain is an important parameter in designing and analyzing electronic circuits.

Resonance is the phenomenon of an object vibrating at its natural frequency due to the influence of an external force.

• Resonance occurs when an object is subjected to an external force that matches its natural frequency.

• This causes the object to vibrate with increasing amplitude.

• Examples of resonance include a tuning fork vibrating when struck, a wine glass shattering due to a high-pitched sound, and a bridge collapsing due to wind-induced vibrations.

• Resonance can be both bene...read more

To find the Kth element from the end in a linked list, we can use the two-pointer technique.

• Use two pointers, one moving K steps ahead of the other

• When the first pointer reaches the end, the second pointer will be at the Kth element from the end

• Handle edge cases like K being larger than the length of the linked list

Accessing nested index using pointer in C/C++

• Use the arrow operator (->) to access the nested structure element

• Use the dereference operator (*) to access the nested array element

• Example: ptr->nestedStruct.nestedArray[*].element

• Example: (*ptr).nestedArray[*].element

Bootup sequence is the process of starting up a computer system.

• Power on self-test (POST) is performed

• BIOS is loaded and executed

• Bootloader is loaded and executed

• Operating system kernel is loaded and executed

• Device drivers are loaded and initialized

• User login prompt is displayed

Ephemeral storage is temporary storage that is deleted when an instance is terminated.

• Ephemeral storage is also known as instance storage.

• It is attached to the instance and is not persistent.

• It is ideal for temporary data such as caches, buffers, and scratch data.

• Examples include Amazon EC2 instance store and Google Cloud local SSD.

• It is important to back up any important data stored in ephemeral storage.

Science is the systematic study of the natural world through observation and experimentation.

• Science involves the use of the scientific method to test hypotheses and theories

• It aims to explain natural phenomena and make predictions about future events

• Examples of scientific fields include physics, biology, chemistry, and astronomy

I2C is a serial communication protocol used to connect multiple devices with two wires.

• I2C stands for Inter-Integrated Circuit

• It uses two wires - SDA (Serial Data) and SCL (Serial Clock)

• It supports multiple devices on the same bus using unique addresses

• It operates in master-slave mode where the master initiates the communication

• It uses ACK/NACK signals to confirm successful data transmission

Bubble sort is a simple sorting algorithm that repeatedly steps through the list, compares adjacent elements and swaps them if they are in the wrong order.

• Bubble sort has a time complexity of O(n^2)

• It is not efficient for large datasets

• It is easy to implement and understand

• Example: [5, 3, 8, 4, 2] -> [2, 3, 4, 5, 8]

Print 1 to n using recursion

• Define a recursive function that takes n as input

• Base case: if n is 1, print 1 and return

• Recursive case: call the function with n-1 and print n

An abstract class is a class that cannot be instantiated and is meant to be subclassed.

• An abstract class can have abstract and non-abstract methods.

• Abstract methods have no implementation and must be implemented by the subclass.

• A subclass can only extend one abstract class but can implement multiple interfaces.

• Example: Animal is an abstract class with abstract method 'makeSound'. Dog and Cat are subclasses that implement 'makeSound'.

Stack and queue are data structures used to store and retrieve data in a specific order.

• Stack is a Last In First Out (LIFO) data structure where elements are added and removed from the same end.

• Queue is a First In First Out (FIFO) data structure where elements are added at the rear and removed from the front.

• Example of stack: Undo feature in text editors.

• Example of queue: Print job queue in a printer.

Abstract is a class while interface is a contract. Abstract can have implementation while interface cannot.

• Abstract class can have constructors while interface cannot

• Abstract class can have non-abstract methods while interface cannot

• A class can implement multiple interfaces but can only inherit from one abstract class

Queue can be implemented using linked list by maintaining head and tail pointers.

• Create a node structure with data and next pointer

• Maintain head and tail pointers to keep track of front and rear of queue

• Enqueue by adding node at tail and dequeue by removing node from head