ITF Concepts and Terminology Flashcards

What is the purpose of 'RAM' in a computer system?

Answer: To temporarily hold data and instructions the CPU is actively using

RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile temporary storage that holds data and programs currently being used by the CPU.

Which term describes the practice of using one physical server to simulate multiple virtual servers?

Answer: Virtualization

Virtualization allows a single physical machine to host multiple virtual machines, each acting as an independent computer.

What is the difference between 'lossy' and 'lossless' compression?

Answer: Lossy compression permanently removes some data; lossless retains all original data

Lossy compression permanently discards some data to achieve smaller file sizes, while lossless compression reduces size without losing any original data.

What does 'multitasking' mean in the context of an operating system?

Answer: Executing multiple processes or applications seemingly simultaneously

Multitasking is the OS capability to manage and run multiple processes concurrently by rapidly switching between them.

In file systems, what is a 'directory'?

Answer: A container used to organize and group files

A directory (or folder) is a file system container used to organize and group related files and other directories.

What is 'phishing' in the context of cybersecurity?

Answer: A social engineering attack using deceptive emails to steal credentials

Phishing is a social engineering attack where fraudulent emails or messages trick users into revealing sensitive information like passwords.

Which unit of measurement equals approximately one trillion bytes?

Answer: Terabyte (TB)

A terabyte (TB) equals approximately 1 trillion bytes (1,000 GB), commonly used to measure large hard drive capacities.