126+ Free ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Practice Questions
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Key Facts: ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Exam
36 questions
Official ICDL module certification test length
ICDL Foundation standard module test specifications
45 minutes
Time allowed for ICDL module certification tests
ICDL Foundation standard module test specifications
75% pass mark
Candidates need 27 out of 36 marks to pass
ICDL Foundation / ICS Skills Ireland programme
6 categories
Computers and Devices; Managing Files; Networks; Online Information; Online Communication; Safety
ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Syllabus Version 1.0
Syllabus 1.0
Current Computer & Online Essentials syllabus on ICDL Global (distinct from Documents/Spreadsheets 6.0)
ICDL Global — Computer & Online Essentials
QQI NFQ mapping
ICDL can exempt components for 40%+ of QQI awards on Ireland's National Framework of Qualifications
ICDL Global — Ireland / QQI endorsement
Since 1997
ICDL/ECDL has been offered in Ireland through the Irish Computer Society
ICDL Global — Ireland
100
Free original practice MCQs on OpenExamPrep across all syllabus categories
OpenExamPrep
ICDL Computer & Online Essentials in Ireland is delivered by ICS Skills and tests everyday computer and online skills at Accredited Test Centres nationwide. The live exam has 36 MCQs in 45 minutes; you need 75% (27/36) to pass. This free 100-question bank gives extra multiple-choice practice across hardware, files, networks, web browsing, email, and safety with Irish context.
Sample ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to test your ICDL Computer & Online Essentials exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 126+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1Which component temporarily holds open applications while the computer is powered on?
2What is the primary role of an operating system?
3A barcode scanner registers equipment at a test centre. How is this device classified?
4A worker connects a laptop to an external monitor using one cable for HD video and audio. Which port is most appropriate?
5LibreOffice allows users to view and modify source code under its licence terms. Which licence type applies?
6On a Windows 11 PC, where can a user check the installed Windows edition and installed RAM?
7Which storage type uses flash memory with no moving parts and is common in modern laptops?
8What is the recommended way to safely remove a USB memory stick from a shared PC?
9Which power state saves open documents to disk before powering off, protecting work if battery power may be lost?
10An unresponsive application freezes during an ICDL practice session. What is the recommended first step on Windows?
About the ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Exam
The ICDL Computer & Online Essentials module is a foundational digital-literacy certification offered in Ireland through ICS Skills Accredited Test Centres. Introduced as ECDL in Ireland in 1997, it validates practical skills in using computers and devices, managing files and applications, connecting to networks, finding information online, communicating by email and calendar, and staying safe — including GDPR awareness supervised in Ireland by the Data Protection Commission. The official certification test contains 36 multiple-choice questions over 45 minutes with a pass mark of 75% (27/36), aligned to ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Syllabus Version 1.0. It is a core module in ICDL Workforce, Digital Student, and many Irish school and ETB programmes. QQI has mapped ICDL certification to the National Framework of Qualifications, supporting exemptions in further education.
Assessment
Single automated ICDL module certification test with 36 multiple-choice questions worth one mark each, combined with practical and hotspot-style tasks in the live test environment at an ICS Skills Accredited Test Centre. Six syllabus categories: Computers and Devices (~18%), Managing Files and Applications (~18%), Networks (~16%), Online Information (~16%), Online Communication (~16%), and Safety (~16%).
Time Limit
45 minutes for the official certification test.
Passing Score
75% — candidates must score at least 27 out of 36 marks to pass, per ICDL Foundation standard module test specifications used in Ireland.
Exam Fee
Fees are not set centrally by ICS Skills. Candidates typically need a Skills Card plus a per-module test fee; costs vary by Accredited Test Centre — contact your local Irish centre for current pricing. (ICS Skills (training and certification body of the Irish Computer Society), national operator for ICDL in Ireland under the ICDL Foundation programme)
ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Exam Content Outline
Computers and Devices
Hardware (CPU, RAM, storage, I/O), operating systems, utility and application software, licensing types, system settings, safe removal of devices, and power states.
Managing Files and Applications
Folder hierarchy, file naming and extensions, properties (read-only, hidden), wildcards, copy/move, zip/unzip, shortcuts, and installing trusted applications.
Networks
LAN, WAN, VPN, intranet vs extranet, ISP and bandwidth, upload/download, Wi-Fi SSID and WPA2/WPA3 security, and basic troubleshooting.
Online Information
Browsers, search operators, bookmarks and history, cache and cookies, HTTPS indicators, private browsing, evaluating sources, and copyright acknowledgement.
Online Communication
Email structure and fields, SMTP/POP3/IMAP, folders and junk mail, attachments, signatures, calendars and invitations, IM, VoIP, and netiquette.
Safety
Malware and phishing, strong passwords and MFA, firewalls, 3-2-1 backups, ergonomics, accessibility tools, Green IT, and GDPR / Irish DPC fundamentals.
How to Pass the ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 75% — candidates must score at least 27 out of 36 marks to pass, per ICDL Foundation standard module test specifications used in Ireland.
- Assessment: Single automated ICDL module certification test with 36 multiple-choice questions worth one mark each, combined with practical and hotspot-style tasks in the live test environment at an ICS Skills Accredited Test Centre. Six syllabus categories: Computers and Devices (~18%), Managing Files and Applications (~18%), Networks (~16%), Online Information (~16%), Online Communication (~16%), and Safety (~16%).
- Time limit: 45 minutes for the official certification test.
- Exam fee: Fees are not set centrally by ICS Skills. Candidates typically need a Skills Card plus a per-module test fee; costs vary by Accredited Test Centre — contact your local Irish centre for current pricing.
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
ICDL Computer & Online Essentials Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the official ICDL Computer & Online Essentials test in Ireland?
The certification test contains 36 multiple-choice questions, each worth one mark, delivered in a 45-minute session at an ICS Skills Accredited Test Centre.
What score do I need to pass?
The pass mark is 75%, which means at least 27 correct answers out of 36 marks, following ICDL Foundation standard specifications used by ICS Skills in Ireland.
Who delivers ICDL in Ireland?
ICS Skills, the training and certification body of the Irish Computer Society, is the national operator for ICDL. Tests are taken at Accredited Test Centres — including ETBs, colleges, and training providers — often using the Skillsbox automated testing system.
What is the difference between ECDL and ICDL in Ireland?
ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence) was the original European brand; ICDL (International Certification of Digital Literacy) is the current global name under the ICDL Foundation. Ireland adopted ECDL in 1997; both names may still appear locally, but the syllabus and test format are aligned under ICDL Foundation standards.
Does ICDL help with QQI qualifications?
Yes. Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) has mapped ICDL certification to the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). Candidates can use ICDL modules as exemption components for over 40% of QQI awards, supporting progression from post-primary to further education.
Are these the official ICDL exam questions?
No. These are original OpenExamPrep multiple-choice items with Ireland/ICS context for extra drill. ICDL publishes separate sample tests; live certification tests also include practical tasks not fully replicated here.