40 IT Tech Support Interview Question And Answers, Sys Admin + Light Networking

cobuman

3 May 202015:47

Summary

TLDRThis video serves as a comprehensive guide for IT job interviews, particularly for system and network administration roles. It covers essential interview questions and answers, tailored to help candidates showcase their skills effectively. From explaining the basics of Windows Server and TCP/IP to discussing advanced topics like Active Directory and VPNs, the video provides simplified explanations for better understanding. It also includes practical advice on how to stand out in interviews, emphasizing the importance of personal experience and relevance to the job position.

Takeaways

😀 The video is aimed at helping individuals preparing for tech support interviews, covering both system and network administration topics.
🔒 The role of Windows Server is to act as a centralized system providing functions and rules for networked devices.
📂 Windows Domain facilitates access to user accounts, computers, printers, and security features through a domain controller.
🔥 A firewall's purpose is to filter network traffic, allowing or blocking data based on predetermined security rules.
🌐 TCP/IP is a foundational protocol suite for data transmission, with TCP ensuring data packet order and reliability.
🔒 HTTPS provides secure communication over the internet with encryption and identity verification, using TCP port 443.
🔍 DNS translates domain names into IP addresses, essential for internet navigation, and operates on port 53.
🔄 Active Directory is a Windows service for user and computer authentication, policy enforcement, and software distribution.
🗑️ Garbage collection in Active Directory is a process that cleans up expired objects to free up space.
🔄 RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) provides data redundancy and can improve performance through striping.
💾 System Volume Folder in a domain controller holds copies of critical system files for replication purposes.
🔑 Group Policy is used to control configurations and permissions for users and computers within an organization.
📧 Different types of email servers use specific ports; POP3 and IMAP for incoming mail, SMTP for outgoing.
🌳 The difference between a forest and a domain in Active Directory is that a forest is a collection of multiple domains.
🌐 Virtual machines allow multiple operating systems to run on a single computer, providing flexibility for development and testing.
🔒 'Tattooing the registry' refers to permanent changes made by Group Policy that do not revert when the policy is removed.
🛡️ A proxy server filters and can monitor network traffic, blocking access to certain sites and hiding user activity.
🚀 UDP (User Datagram Protocol) offers faster connection speeds than TCP by broadcasting data without waiting for confirmation.
🔄 The loopback IP address (127.0.0.1) is used for testing network interface card functionality during troubleshooting.
📡 DHCP automates IP address distribution on a network, with addresses being dynamically assigned and released.
🔒 SSH (Secure Shell) establishes secure connections between devices, useful for remote access and administration.
🌐 The OSI model consists of seven layers: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, and Application.
🛠️ Network Layer in OSI is responsible for routing, error handling, and packet sequencing in data transmission.
🌐 Different types of network cables like Cat5, Cat5e, and Cat6 offer varying speeds and are rated for 100 meters maximum distance.
🔍 A subnet mask defines network and host addresses, essential for the TCP/IP protocol to understand network structure.
🏢 The difference between a workgroup and a domain is that a workgroup has local rules and permissions, while a domain is governed by a central domain controller.
🔍 DNS issues can occur if a host is reachable by IP but not by name, indicating a potential DNS resolution problem.
🔬 The trace route command provides a detailed path of data transmission through various network devices to a final destination.
🔄 IP config is used to view and modify local network settings such as DHCP configuration, DNS, and subnet mask.
🔒 VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows secure connections over public networks, commonly used for remote access to company networks.
🔄 A network switch operates at the physical layer, connecting and managing data flow between multiple devices on a network.
🤔 The final question prompts candidates to consider their unique selling points and how they can benefit the company, emphasizing the importance of self-promotion in interviews.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the video script provided?
-The video script is designed to prepare individuals for tech support interviews, particularly those related to system and network administration. It serves as a guide for those new to IT, considering a helpdesk role, and as a refresher for those with upcoming interviews.
Why is the 'Tell us about yourself' question important in an interview?
-This question is crucial as it is the first opportunity for a candidate to present themselves as the best fit for the job. It should be tailored to the specific position, focusing on relevant experiences and skills.
What role does Windows Server play in a network?
-Windows Server acts as a centralized computer that provides specific functions and rules for computers, users, and components connected to a network.
Can you explain the concept of a Windows domain?
-A Windows domain offers access to user accounts, computers, printers, and security features as part of a database controlled by a domain controller.
What is the primary function of a firewall?
-A firewall serves as a filter between computer resources, blocking incoming or outgoing traffic to protect the network from unauthorized access.
What does TCP/IP protocol handle?
-TCP/IP handles the establishment of connections between computers before data transmission and manages the order of data packets being sent back and forth.
What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?
-HTTP is the Hypertext Transfer Protocol used for transmitting website data, primarily using TCP port 80. HTTPS is a secure version of HTTP that allows identity verification and encryption, using TCP port 443.
What does DNS stand for and what is its primary function?
-DNS stands for Domain Name System, and its main function is to translate domain names into numeric IP addresses, such as translating 'cosmicnovo.com' to its IP address 130.211.16.109.
What is Active Directory and its purpose in Windows Server OS?
-Active Directory is a service used for user and computer authentication within a domain and enforcing security policies with Group Policy Objects (GPOs), which can also be used for software installations across the domain.
What is a lingering object in Active Directory?
-A lingering object is created when an object is removed from Active Directory while the domain controller is offline. It signifies that the object must be replicated by the main controller before it expires.
What does RAID stand for and what are its benefits?
-RAID stands for Redundant Array of Independent Disks. It provides data redundancy across multiple hard disks and can improve read and write performance using striping configurations.
What commands can be used in CMD to test network connectivity?
-The commands used to test network connectivity include 'ping', 'traceroute', and 'ipconfig'.
What is the purpose of the Group Policy in a Windows operating system?
-The Group Policy assists in managing user data, computer information, applications, and settings by defining business roles, group members, and locations through user group policy.
How is Active Directory backed up and what tools are used?
-Active Directory can be backed up using the 'ntdsutil' backup tool that comes with Windows Server 2003 or a command prompt for Windows Server 2008, using the command 'wbadmin start systemstatebackup -backuptarget: e:'.
What is garbage collection in Active Directory and how often is it performed?
-Garbage collection is a process designed to free space inside of Active Directory by removing expired objects. It is performed by default every 12 hours.
What is the System Volume Folder and its role in replication across a domain?
-The System Volume Folder is a directory that houses a copy of the main files found on a local drive within a domain controller. Its purpose is to facilitate replication across the domain, such as for user login scripts and Windows group policy.
What are the different types of email servers and their respective ports?
-There are two types of email servers: the incoming mail server which uses POP3 on port 110, IMAP on port 143, and HTTP on port 80; and the outgoing mail server which uses SMTP on port 25.
What is the difference between a forest and a domain in Active Directory?
-A domain is a logical group of computers, users, and devices within Active Directory, while a tree is a collection of domains. If there are multiple trees, they form a forest.
What is a common DNS issue and how can it be identified?
-A common DNS issue occurs when a host cannot be reached by its name over the network but can be reached using an IP address, indicating a problem with DNS resolution.
How can you analyze the connection between a local host and a server?
-The 'tracert' command (trace route) can be used to analyze the connection between a local host and a server, providing detailed path information through switches, servers, and computers to the final destination.
What is the IP config command used for and what additional actions can it perform?
-The IP config command is used to determine DHCP IP settings, DHCP configuration, DNS default gateway, and subnet mask. It can also be used to change local DHCP settings, for example, using 'ipconfig /release' or 'ipconfig /renew'.
What is a VPN and how does it benefit mobile workers?
-A VPN, or Virtual Private Network, allows users to create a secure connection over public networks such as the internet. It is commonly used by mobile workers to access company networks from remote locations securely.
What is the role of a network switch in a network?
-A network switch is used to create or control a network at the physical layer, connecting multiple devices and enabling them to share data by receiving, processing, and forwarding data packets.
Why is the 'Why should we hire you?' question important at the end of an interview?
-This question is important as it provides the candidate with a final chance to convince the employer of their suitability for the position, emphasizing their experience and how it can benefit the company.

Outlines

00:00

😀 Introduction to Tech Support Interview

This paragraph introduces the video as a comprehensive guide for tech support interviews, focusing on system and network administration. It emphasizes the video's utility for IT beginners considering a helpdesk role and for those preparing for interviews. The speaker assures viewers that this will be an informative resource, covering common interview questions with simplified answers for clarity.

05:00

🔒 System and Network Concepts Explained

The paragraph delves into foundational IT concepts, such as the role of Windows Server, the function of a Windows domain, and the purpose of a firewall. It also explains the TCP/IP protocol, the difference between HTTP and HTTPS, and the DNS system. The speaker encourages viewers to engage with the content by liking or subscribing, highlighting the importance of understanding these concepts for IT roles.

10:06

📚 Advanced IT Concepts and Active Directory

This section covers advanced topics like Active Directory, its role in user and computer authentication, and the use of Group Policy Objects (GPOs). It also discusses lingering objects in Active Directory and RAID technology for data redundancy and performance. The paragraph provides insights into network connectivity testing commands and the process of backing up Active Directory, emphasizing the importance of these skills in IT roles.

15:08

🌐 Networking Fundamentals and Interview Tips

The paragraph discusses fundamental networking concepts, including the OSI model, subnet masks, and the difference between workgroups and domains. It also addresses practical issues like DNS problems and network connectivity analysis. The speaker provides interview tips, such as using the IP config command and understanding the role of a network switch, concluding with advice on how to effectively answer the 'Why should we hire you?' question.

👋 Conclusion and Encouragement for Job Seekers

In the concluding paragraph, the speaker offers bonus advice for interview preparation, suggesting that candidates research the company and understand the job description. They direct viewers to their YouTube channel for additional IT guides and express well-wishes for the viewers' job prospects, ending the video on a positive and supportive note.

Mindmap

Keywords

💡System Administration

System Administration refers to the management of an organization's computer systems, including the coordination of servers, storage, and network infrastructure. It plays a central role in the video's theme of IT interviews, as it is a critical skill for many IT positions. The script mentions it as a key area of discussion, alongside Network Administration.

💡Windows Server

Windows Server is a central component in the video script, defined as a centralized computer that provides specific functions and rules for networked computers and users. It is used to illustrate the role of a server operating system in a network environment, which is vital for system administrators.

💡Windows Domain

A Windows Domain is a database that provides access to user accounts, computers, printers, and security features, controlled by a domain controller. The concept is essential for understanding network organization and access control, as highlighted in the script during the discussion of network administration.

💡Firewall

A Firewall is a security system that filters traffic between two or more computer resources, blocking unwanted incoming or outgoing traffic. It is a fundamental concept in network security, as mentioned in the script, and can be implemented in both software and hardware forms.

💡TCP/IP

TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol and is the foundational protocol for the internet. It is used for establishing connections between computers and controlling the order of data packets. The script explains it as the 'highway' for data packets, emphasizing its importance in network communication.

💡DNS

DNS, or Domain Name System, is a critical service for resolving domain names into IP addresses, as the script explains. It is essential for internet navigation and is used to illustrate the process of translating human-readable domain names into machine-readable IP addresses.

💡Active Directory

Active Directory is a service of Windows Server OS used for user and computer authentication within a domain. It also allows the enforcement of security policies and software installations across a domain, as mentioned in the script, making it a key concept for managing network resources.

💡RAID

RAID, or Redundant Array of Independent Disks, is a method used to provide data redundancy and improve performance across multiple hard disks. The script discusses different RAID configurations, such as RAID 0, which is used for striping data across disks to improve performance.

💡CMD Commands

CMD commands such as 'ping', 'traceroute', and 'ipconfig' are used to test network connectivity. These commands are fundamental tools for network administrators, as the script explains, to diagnose and resolve network issues.

💡Group Policy

Group Policy is used to control user and computer configurations, permissions, and settings within an organization. The script describes it as a template for specific groups of members, which is crucial for managing large groups of users with different security permissions.

💡Virtual Machine

A Virtual Machine is an emulation of an operating system that allows multiple instances to run on a single computer. The script mentions virtual machines as a way to increase the flexibility and efficiency of IT environments, which is a key concept for understanding modern IT infrastructure.

Highlights

Introduction to the video on tech support interview questions focusing on system and network administration.

Importance of tailoring the 'tell us about yourself' answer to the job position.

Explanation of Windows Server's role as a centralized computer for network functions.

Description of a Windows domain and its control over network resources.

Firewall's function as a filter to block network traffic.

TCP/IP protocol's role in establishing connections and managing data packet order.

Differentiation between HTTP and HTTPS protocols and their respective ports.

DNS's function in translating domain names to IP addresses and its port usage.

Types of DNS queries: iterative and recursive.

Active Directory's role in user authentication and security policy enforcement.

Location and function of the Active Directory database file.

The concept of lingering objects in Active Directory.

RAID's purpose for data redundancy and performance improvement.

CMD commands for testing network connectivity.

Explanation of Intialily Mirror and its role in user data management.

Backup methods for Active Directory using built-in tools.

Garbage collection process in Active Directory.

System Volume Folder's role in replication across domain controllers.

Group Policy's use in controlling configurations and permissions for user groups.

Types of email servers and their respective ports.

Difference between a forest and a domain in Active Directory.

Virtual Machine's function as an emulation of an operating system.

The concept of 'tattooing the registry' by Group Policy.

Proxy server's role in filtering and monitoring network traffic.

UDP's function and differences from TCP in connection management.

Loopback IP address's use in testing network interface cards.

DHCP's role in dynamic IP address distribution on a network.

FTP's function and the ports it uses for file transfer.

SSH's purpose in establishing secure connections between devices.

Maximum length of UTP cable for network connections.

OSI model's seven layers and their functions.

Network layer's responsibilities in routing and error handling.

Types of network cables and their speed capabilities.

Subnet mask's function in distinguishing network and host addresses.

Difference between a workgroup and a domain in terms of network rules and permissions.

DNS issue example involving host name resolution failure.

Trace Route command's use in analyzing network paths.

IP Config command's function in displaying and modifying network settings.

VPN's role in creating secure connections over public networks.

Network switch's function in managing data flow at the physical layer.

Final question on why the employer should hire the candidate, emphasizing experience and benefits to the company.