Desktop support engineers play a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of an organization’s technology infrastructure. Their responsibilities range from installing software and hardware to troubleshooting technical issues and providing technical support to end users. As such, the interview process for desktop support engineers is typically rigorous and thorough, with employers looking for candidates who possess a deep understanding of various technical concepts and possess excellent communication skills.
In this blog, we will explore the top 100 desktop support engineer interview questions that will help you prepare for your upcoming interview. These questions cover a wide range of topics, from hardware and software troubleshooting to networking and security, and are designed to test your technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. Whether you’re a seasoned desktop support engineer or just starting your career in this field, this blog will provide you with valuable insights into what to expect during the interview process and how to prepare effectively for it.
Answer: I would first try to determine what files or programs are taking up the most space on the hard drive. I would use a disk cleanup tool to remove unnecessary files and programs. If the user has important files that they cannot delete, I would suggest moving them to an external hard drive or cloud storage. Additionally, I would recommend the user to regularly clean up their computer and remove unnecessary files to avoid future issues.
Answer: I would first check that the printer is powered on and properly connected to the computer. If it is not connected, I would connect it and try to print a test page to ensure that the printer is working. If the printer is still not working, I would check the printer drivers and reinstall them if necessary. I would also ensure that the correct printer is selected in the print dialog box.
Answer: I would first check that the computer is connected to the internet and that there are no issues with the network. If the network is working, I would check the browser settings to ensure that the user is not using a proxy server. If that doesn’t resolve the issue, I would check the DNS settings and flush the DNS cache. I would also check the firewall settings to ensure that they are not blocking internet access.
Answer: I would first check that the user has the necessary permissions to access the shared drive. If the user has the correct permissions, I would check that the shared drive is properly connected and that there are no network issues. I would also ensure that the user is using the correct username and password to access the drive. If necessary, I would map the shared drive to the user’s computer to make it easier to access.
Answer: I would first check that the computer is properly plugged in and that there are no issues with the power outlet. If the computer is still not turning on, I would check the power supply and ensure that it is working properly. If the power supply is functioning correctly, I would check the motherboard and RAM to ensure that there are no hardware issues. If necessary, I would replace any faulty hardware components.
Answer: I would first disconnect the computer from the network to prevent the further spread of the malware. I would then run a malware scan using an antivirus program and remove any detected threats. If the malware is persistent, I would boot the computer into Safe Mode and run another scan. I would also ensure that the user is educated on safe browsing practices to prevent future infections.
Answer: I would first try to determine the error message displayed on the blue screen. If it is a known error, I would look up the solution online and follow the recommended steps. If it is an unknown error, I would try to determine if any recent changes were made to the computer, such as software updates or new hardware installations. I would also check the computer’s hardware components, such as the RAM or hard drive, to ensure that there are no issues. If necessary, I would perform a system restore or reinstall the operating system.
Answer: I would first try to determine if the application is installed correctly and up-to-date. If it is, I would try to repair the application using the built-in repair tool or reinstall it if necessary. I would also check the computer’s security settings to ensure that the application is not being blocked by a firewall or antivirus program. If necessary, I would contact the application’s support team for further assistance.
Answer: I would first ensure that the computer’s fans are functioning correctly and are not blocked by dust or debris. If the fans are working properly, I would check the computer’s temperature using a software tool and monitor it while the computer is in use. If the temperature is consistently high, I would recommend the user to clean the computer’s internals or replace any faulty components, such as the CPU or GPU.
Answer: I would first check that the user’s email account is properly configured in their email client and that there are no issues with the email server. If the email client is properly configured and the server is working correctly, I would check the user’s internet connection and firewall settings to ensure that they are not blocking email traffic. If necessary, I would contact the email provider for further assistance.
Answer: I would first check the computer’s performance using a software tool and identify any resource-intensive applications or processes. I would then try to optimize the computer’s performance by closing unnecessary applications, disabling startup programs, and performing disk cleanup. If necessary, I would upgrade the computer’s hardware components, such as the RAM or hard drive.
Answer: I would first check the user’s internet connection and verify that their network adapter is functioning correctly. I would then check the computer’s IP address and DNS settings and ensure that they are properly configured. If necessary, I would reset the network settings, update the network adapter driver, or contact the internet service provider for further assistance.
Answer: I would first check that the printer is properly connected to the computer and that its drivers are up-to-date. I would then check the printer’s queue and ensure that there are no print jobs stuck in the queue. If necessary, I would clear the queue and restart the print spooler service. If the issue persists, I would check the printer’s hardware components, such as the ink cartridges or paper trays.
Answer: I would first check that the user’s internet connection is working correctly and that there are no issues with the website’s server. I would then check the user’s browser settings and ensure that the website is not blocked by a firewall or antivirus program. If necessary, I would clear the browser’s cache and cookies or try accessing the website using a different browser.
Answer: I would first check the computer’s storage capacity and identify any large or unnecessary files that can be deleted. I would then perform a disk cleanup to clear temporary files and free up space. If necessary, I would transfer files to an external hard drive or upgrade the computer’s storage capacity.
Answer: I would first check the user’s network connection and verify that they are authorized to access the shared folder. I would then check the computer hosting of the shared folder and ensure that it is properly configured and accessible. If necessary, I would check the network’s firewall settings or contact the network administrator for further assistance.
Answer: I would first check the computer’s volume settings and ensure that the speakers or headphones are properly connected. I would then check the computer’s sound drivers and ensure that they are up-to-date. If necessary, I would troubleshoot the audio hardware components, such as the speakers or sound card.
Answer: I would first check the computer’s boot order in the BIOS and ensure that the correct device is selected as the primary boot device. I would then check the computer’s hard drive and ensure that it is properly connected and detected by the BIOS. If necessary, I would try to repair the computer’s startup files using a Windows recovery tool or reinstall the operating system.
Answer: I would first check if the computer is frozen by trying to open the task manager using the keyboard shortcut or by pressing CTRL + ALT + DELETE. If the task manager opens, I would check the performance and identify any resource-intensive applications or processes. If the computer is completely unresponsive, I would try to force shut down the computer using the power button and perform a system restore or repair.
Answer: I would first check the computer’s event log and identify any errors or warnings related to the restart. I would then check the computer’s hardware components, such as the RAM or power supply, and ensure that they are properly connected and functioning correctly. If necessary, I would update the computer’s drivers and perform a virus scan to identify any malware that may be causing the issue.
Answer: I would first verify that the user is entering the correct username and password. If the login credentials are correct, I would check the computer’s network connection and ensure that it is properly configured. If necessary, I would try to log in using a different account or perform a password reset.
Answer: I would first check the error code displayed on the blue screen and research it online to identify the cause. I would then check the computer’s hardware components, such as the RAM or hard drive, and ensure that they are properly connected and functioning correctly. If necessary, I would try to update the computer’s drivers or perform a system restore to a previous working state.
Answer: I would first check the computer’s resource usage using the task manager and identify any resource-intensive applications or processes. I would then perform a virus scan and remove any malware that may be causing the issue. If necessary, I would try to upgrade the computer’s hardware components, such as the RAM or hard drive, or optimize the computer’s settings to improve performance.
Answer: I would first check if the website is accessible from other devices on the same network. If the website is inaccessible on all devices, I would check the computer’s network connection and ensure that it is properly configured. If necessary, I would try to flush the computer’s DNS cache or reset the computer’s network settings. If the issue persists, I would contact the website’s administrator or internet service provider for further assistance.
Answer: I would first check if the printer is properly connected to the computer and turned on. I would then check the printer’s status in the control panel and ensure that it is set as the default printer. If necessary, I would try to reinstall the printer drivers or perform a printer self-test to identify any hardware issues.
An ‘A’ record, also known as a host record, is used to map a domain name to an IP address. It allows DNS servers to locate a website or other services using its IP address. An ‘MX’ record, also known as a mail exchanger record, is used to specify the mail server responsible for accepting email messages on behalf of a domain. It allows email to be delivered to the correct mail server.
The IPCONFIG command displays the IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway for a network adapter on a computer. It can also be used to release and renew DHCP leases and flush the DNS resolver cache.
If switches are not available, two computers can be connected using a crossover cable. A crossover cable is a type of Ethernet cable that allows two devices to communicate directly without the need for a switch.
In network administration, a domain is a logical group of network resources that share a common directory database. A domain can include user accounts, computer accounts, and other resources such as printers and network shares. It allows for centralized management of network resources and simplifies user and computer authentication and access control.
To restore data after a virus infection, you would need to install a new hard drive with the latest anti-virus software and an operating system with all the latest updates. Next, connect the infected hard drive as a secondary drive and scan it with the anti-virus software to remove the virus. Finally, copy the files from the infected hard drive to the new hard drive.
When assisting with new hardware setup, I would carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions and ensure all connections are made correctly. For software installations, I will either use a standardized image with pre-installed software or guide the user through the installation process step by step, ensuring they understand each stage of the setup.
I would first check if there is power to the system and if the power cable is securely plugged in. If there’s power, then I would look for any error messages or beeps during boot-up, indicating hardware issues. If no errors are visible, then I would boot the system into safe mode to identify if a software or driver issue is causing the problem. Based on my observations, will proceed with appropriate repairs or escalate the issue if needed..
A Remote Access Server (RAS) enables users to remotely access network resources over a communication link, such as a phone line or the internet. It allows users to access resources such as files, printers, and databases on a remote network as if they were directly connected to it.
A Virtual Private Network (VPN) server is a secure communication network that allows users to connect to a private network over the internet. It provides a secure way to access resources on a private network from a remote location, such as a home office or a public Wi-Fi hotspot.
A RAS server allows remote users to access network resources over a communication link, while a VPN server creates a secure connection between remote users and a private network over the internet. A RAS server typically uses dial-up connections, while a VPN server uses internet connections.
An Internet Authentication Service (IAS) server is a Microsoft Windows Server component that provides authentication and authorization for network access. It supports various types of network access, including remote access, wireless access, and authenticating switches.
The Ping command is a network troubleshooting tool that sends an ICMP Echo Request message to a target device and waits for an ICMP Echo Reply message. It measures the round-trip time for packets to travel from the source device to the target device and back, allowing network administrators to test network connectivity and identify network problems.
Clustering is the process of connecting two or more computers to work together as a single system. It is used to improve system performance, provide fault tolerance, and increase scalability. Clustering provides several advantages, including load balancing, high availability, and easy maintenance.
In computer networks, a group is a collection of user accounts that share common permissions, privileges, and access rights. It simplifies network administration by allowing administrators to assign permissions to a group instead of to individual user accounts.
In Windows Server Active Directory, a child domain is a subdomain of a parent domain. It inherits the security policies and settings of the parent domain but can have its own organizational structure, policies, and permissions. Child domains can help to organize resources and simplify administration in large network environments.
Having a low network traffic
Reducing administrative costs
Creating a defensible perimeter
OU stands for Organizational Unit and it’s a container in Active Directory used to hold users, groups, and machines. It is the smallest unit where a group policy can be applied by an administrator.
Group policy is used to set security and network settings for users on a network. It provides an expedited access for all users and allows for the control of some functions such as preventing users from shutting down the system, accessing the control panel, or running certain commands.
Policy is used in Active Directory to refer to settings at the site, domain, and OU levels. Rights are given to users and groups, while permissions are granted to network resources like files, folders, and printers.
DC stands for Domain Controller, which is a server that verifies security information like user ID and password. ADC stands for Additional Domain Controller, which is a backup for the domain controller.
The main difference between a DC and ADC is that the former has all five operational roles, while the latter only has three.
DC has the following operational roles: Master of Domain Naming, Master Schema, Master RID, Emulator for PDC, and Master of Infrastructure. ADC has the following operational roles: Emulator for PDC, Master RID, and Master of Infrastructure.
A Default Gateway is the IP address of the network router. Whenever a user wants to connect to a different network or cannot find their own, their inquiry will be sent to the Default Gateway.
To create a backup in MS Outlook, go to the Control Panel, select the Mail option, open the data file, pick Personal Folder, and click Open Folder. Then, copy the .pst file and paste it to the desired backup location.
In a trusting domain, resources are available, while in a trusted domain, a user’s account is available.
The BUS speed is the rate of communication between the microprocessor and the RAM.
Active Directory partitions are divided into three categories: Schema partition, Configuration partition, and Domain partition.
A Gateway uses a different network architecture than a Router, which uses the same one.
A packet is a logical grouping of data that includes a header with location
SCSI stands for Small Computer System Interface, which is a standard interface that enables personal computers to communicate with peripheral devices like printers, CD-ROM drives, disc drives, and tape drives. Data transfer rates are typically fast with SCSI.
There are five classes of IP addresses, namely Class A, B, C, D, and E. The ranges for each class are as follows: Class A – 0 to 126 (127 is reserved for loopback); Class B – 128 to 191; Class C – 192 to 223; Class D – 224 to 239; and Class E – 240 to 255.
FIXMBR is a repair program that fixes the Master Boot Record of the Partition Boot Sector.
SID stands for Security Identifier, which is a unique ID assigned to each computer entity.
Incremental backups only back up data that has changed since the last backup, while differential backups select only files that have changed since the previous backup. Incremental backups back up the changed data corresponding to each file, whereas differential backups back up the entire changed file.
Server operating systems allow for centralised user administration, shared resources, and enhanced security features, while desktop operating systems only allow for local administration.
MSI (Microsoft Installer) is a single-file installation, uninstallation, and repair software. On the other hand, EXE files require two files for installation and uninstallation. MSI prompts users to uninstall the existing software first before installing the new one, whereas EXE can detect the existing software version and give users the option to uninstall it.
BSOD stands for Blue Screen Of Death, which occurs when the operating system or hardware fails, resulting in a blue screen with a code. Restarting the computer usually resolves the issue, but starting the computer in safe mode can also help.
PTR (Program Trouble Record) is the reverse lookup record that checks if a server name is associated with an IP address. It is also known as a pointer record or Reverse DNS record. The ‘A’ record is the forward lookup record that checks if a name is associated with an IP address.
In a DHCP server, a reservation is used when certain network equipment or computer systems require a specific IP address. A reservation is made for that computer system in the DHCP server, giving it exclusive access to that IP address and preventing other computers from using it.
SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is used for sending mail, while POP (Post Office Protocol) is used for receiving mail.
RIS (Remote Installation Services) is used to transfer a Windows server image to new hardware. RIS is used because installing the OS from a CD every time is time-consuming.
The bootloader facilitates the installation of the operating system on the computer. It makes the booting process easier and provides users with the option to choose the operating system when starting the computer.
DNS, or Domain Name System, is responsible for translating domain names into IP addresses and vice versa. It serves as a translator for computers by allowing them to communicate using numerical IP addresses instead of domain names. For example, when you type “hotmail.com” into your browser, DNS will convert it into an IP address that your computer can use to access the website.
A Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) is a system error that causes your computer to crash and display a blue screen with an error message. To troubleshoot a BSOD, start by checking your computer’s RAM and booting into safe mode. It’s also recommended to run an antivirus scan and update your drivers with software approved by the motherboard or suggested by the manufacturer.
To convert a basic disk to a dynamic disk, open the Run dialog box and type “diskmgmt.msc”. From there, select the basic disk you want to convert, right-click on it, and choose the “Convert to Dynamic Disk” option.
Enabling Windows File Protection ensures that altering or deleting a system file that does not have a file lock will result in Windows restoring the original file from a cached folder containing backup copies of these files.
Desktop support involves on-site troubleshooting, while help desk support involves remote troubleshooting for issues reported via phone or email.
Right-click on the desktop, go to properties > appearance > effects, choose the option to use a larger font, then click OK to apply the changes.
TFT-LCD (Thin Film Transistor-Liquid Crystal Display) is a type of Liquid Crystal Display that uses Thin-Film Transistor (TFT) technology to improve image quality. TFT displays are often found in flat panel screens and projectors, and are rapidly replacing CRT technology in computers.
An IP range is a range of IP addresses used by DHCP and address pools. To fix Outlook problems, LDAP can be set up by going to Tools > Account Settings > Address Books > New Address Book > selecting LDAP and entering server information.
Right-click on the desktop, go to properties > appearance > advanced > scroll down to “desktop” and click on “icons,” then increase the font size of the icons.
The most dependable method is to use Remote Desktop Connection (MSTSC) to access the server from the client system, then remote access the other location’s server from the server, and finally access the clients of that location.
Navigate to the control panel, then to the add hardware wizard. Insert the software CD if required, otherwise, the system will install it automatically. Restart the computer.
Right-click on “My Computer” and select “Manage” > go to “Users and Groups” > right-click on the user name and select “Set Password” > enter a password and click OK. The computer will then boot directly to the desktop.
The print spool is a critical service in Windows that allows for printing on a local or network printer. It can be checked by going to “Services” in the Control Panel. The spooler files are located in the “system32\spool\PRINTERS” folder, and spooled print jobs are stored in this folder as well.
A FireWire port is a type of serial port that uses FireWire technology to transfer data quickly between electronic devices. It can be used to connect a variety of different devices, such as scanners to a computer system, and has a transmission rate of up to 400Mbps.
A Desktop Support Engineer is responsible for maintaining all installed operating systems, installing new software, connecting remote desktops, running regular antivirus scans, managing backup and recovery operations, and optimizing and maintaining operating systems.
The IPCONFIG command is used to provide network adapter configuration information such as IP address, subnet mask, and gateway in a concise manner. It also provides extensive network adapter information such as DNS, MAC address, DHCP, and more when used with the /all command-line argument. Additionally, the command can be used to release and renew IP addresses or display the DNS resolver cache.
A reservation typically includes a name assigned by administrators, an IP address for the client, the media access control (MAC) address of the client, a description assigned by administrators, and a boot protocol, DHCP reservation, or both.
In networking, reservation refers to the process of assigning a specific IP address to a particular computer system or network device. This is done by creating an entry in the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server, which grants access to that system through that IP address and prevents other systems from accessing it.
To export the OST mailbox as PST files, select the “Files” option in Outlook, navigate to “Open & Export” and click “Import and Export”. Next, select “Export a file” and click “Next”. Then, click on “Microsoft Exchange Server” and click “Next” again. Select the folder that you want to export and click “Next”. Browse to select a location to save the new PST file, choose the options for duplicate items, and click “Finish”.
To use Archiving to save OST files as PST, launch Outlook and select “Advanced Options” from the file menu. Click on “AutoArchive Settings” and select the frequency for running auto-archiving. Pick the folder for saving the archived files and provide the options for archiving. Click “OK” to complete the process.
NTLDR error is an issue that commonly occurs when a computer attempts to boot from a non-bootable flash drive or hard drive. It can also be caused by corrupt and misconfigured hard drives, OS upgrade problems, obsolete BIOS, loose IDE connectors, and corrupt files.
To fix an NTLDR error, restart the system and check if the issue was a fluke. If the error persists, check your optical disk and floppy drive, disconnect any external drive, and check the settings of all drives in the BIOS to make sure they are correct. Restore the important system files from the original Windows CD, replace or repair the boot.ini file, write a new Windows partition boot sector, repair the master boot record for Windows, reset all power cables and internal data, update the BIOS of your motherboard, repair the installation of your OS, or perform a clean installation of the OS.
To correct the issue of a system that constantly restarts, there are a few options. First, turn off the auto-restart feature by pressing the F8 key when the Windows logo appears after turning on the computer. From the boot menu that displays on the screen, select safe mode and open the Run Window. Then type sysdm.cp and click OK. In the advanced tab of the Startup and Recovery section’s settings, uncheck the Automatically Restart option box under System Failure and click OK to save changes. Finally, delete problematic registry entries.
To bypass the login screen and go straight to the desktop on Windows, launch the Run Window and type netplwiz for Windows 10 or control userpasswords2 for other versions of Windows. In the User Accounts window, go to the Users Tab and uncheck the box beside “Users Must Enter A User Name And Password To Use This Computer” option. Choose the account to log in automatically on reboot, enter the username and password, and click OK. The system will log in to the desktop of the chosen account directly on the next restart.
To add a system to a domain, go to the control panel, select system and security, and click on the system. Then, go to Computer name, domain, and workgroup settings and select change settings. In the Computer Name tab, select change, and then click on Domain under the Member Of option. Type in the domain name that you want the system to join, click OK, and then restart the system.
RAS and VPN Servers are two different remote connection methods. RAS is an industry-standard remote connection method that is meant for small networks, while VPN is designed for medium and large-sized networks. RAS can be expensive, unstable, and difficult to deal with, while VPN is extremely economical, stable, and hassle-free to deal with.
A parallel port is a female connector with 25 pins that transmits data in parallel. It sends data in 8-bit increments and is faster than a serial port.
A serial port is a male connector with 9 or 25 pins that sends data in a sequential format. It transfers data one bit at a time, making it slower than a parallel port. Its purpose is to provide a method of transferring data between devices one bit at a time.
To change folder permissions, you can use Group Policy or do it locally with Administrator Privileges. Go to the folder properties, select the Security tab, and click on the Edit button. A pop-up will appear, allowing you to add users and grant them Read, Write, Execute, or Full permissions.
A Switch and a Hub have several key differences. While a Hub connects multiple computers to a single network, a Switch divides the same network into multiple segments. In addition, with a Hub, all computers linked to it receive data packets simultaneously, causing latency issues. In contrast, a Switch can control this by sending data packets only to the computers that have requested them.
To recover data from a virus-infected computer, remove the hard drive and connect it as a slave to a computer with the latest virus definitions, Microsoft patches, and drivers. Scan the disk for viruses, remove them, and then extract the necessary data.
RAM (Random Access Memory) is used to temporarily store data that the computer is currently processing. It is volatile, meaning the data is lost when the computer is turned off. On the other hand, ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a type of permanent memory storage that contains essential data. The BIOS is an example of data stored in ROM.
These are some of the most common interview questions for Desktop Support. These interview questions will definitely help you analyze and enhance your present level of expertise if you are someone who has recently begun a career in Desktop Support. We hope this was of assistance! Testpreptraining will keep you safe while you practice!
