100+ Free ICDL Computer Essentials Practice Questions
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Key Facts: ICDL Computer Essentials Exam
36 questions
Official ICDL Computer Essentials certification test length
ICDL Foundation standard module test specifications
45 minutes
Time allowed for Base and Workforce module certification tests
ICDL Foundation standard module test specifications
75% pass mark
Candidates need 27 out of 36 marks to pass
ICDL Foundation standard module test specifications
6 categories
Computers and Devices; Desktop/Icons/Settings; Outputs; File Management; Networks; Security and Well-Being
ICDL Computer Essentials Syllabus Version 1.0
Syllabus 1.0
Current Computer Essentials module syllabus version on ICDL South Africa
ICDL South Africa — Computer Essentials
ICDL Base module
Computer Essentials counts toward the four-module ICDL Base certificate
ICDL Foundation ICDL Base programme
ATC delivery
Tests are taken at ICDL Accredited Test Centres, not a single national exam venue
ICDL South Africa — Get Started
100
Free original practice MCQs on OpenExamPrep across all syllabus categories
OpenExamPrep
ICDL Computer Essentials is a South African ICDL Foundation module testing basic computer skills — devices, desktop, files, networks, and security — at Accredited Test Centres. 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 all six official syllabus categories.
Sample ICDL Computer Essentials Practice Questions
Try these sample questions to test your ICDL Computer Essentials exam readiness. Each question includes a detailed explanation. Start the interactive quiz above for the full 100+ question experience with AI tutoring.
1What does ICT stand for?
2Which of the following is an example of an ICT service named in the ICDL Computer Essentials syllabus?
3Which device type is identified in the syllabus as a main type of computer?
4In ICDL terminology, which component temporarily holds data and programs the CPU is actively using?
5Which storage component holds data permanently even when the computer is switched off?
6Which item is listed as integrated or external equipment in the Computer Essentials syllabus?
7Which port type is named in the syllabus as a common input/output port?
8In the ICDL syllabus, software is distinguished from hardware because software is:
9Which category best describes Microsoft Windows or macOS?
10Which is an example of application software per the syllabus?
About the ICDL Computer Essentials Exam
The ICDL Computer Essentials module is an entry-level digital-literacy certification offered in South Africa through ICDL Accredited Test Centres under the ICDL Foundation programme. It sets out essential concepts and skills for using computers and devices: understanding ICT, hardware and software, working on the desktop, creating a simple document and printing, managing files and folders, connecting to networks, and protecting data from malware while considering user health, accessibility, and green IT. The official certification test contains 36 multiple-choice questions over 45 minutes with a pass mark of 75% (27/36), aligned to ICDL Computer Essentials Syllabus Version 1.0. Candidates build an ICDL Profile by passing modules such as Computer Essentials, Online Essentials, Word Processing, and Spreadsheets toward ICDL Base or broader Workforce certificates.
Assessment
Single automated ICDL Workforce / Base 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 Accredited Test Centre.
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.
Exam Fee
Fees are not set centrally by ICDL South Africa. Training, testing, and candidate registration costs vary by Accredited Test Centre; contact your local centre for the current module price. (ICDL South Africa, operating under the international ICDL Foundation digital skills certification programme)
ICDL Computer Essentials Exam Content Outline
Computers and Devices
ICT definitions and services, computer and device types, processor/RAM/storage performance, peripherals and USB/HDMI ports, operating systems vs applications, software licensing and EULAs, and secure log-on, log-off, shut-down, and restart.
Desktop, Icons, Settings
Desktop, taskbar, and common icons; shortcuts; window parts and controls; switching windows; help functions; system information; date/time, volume, background, and resolution; keyboard languages; non-responding apps; install/uninstall; USB connect/disconnect; screenshots.
Outputs
Open a word processor, enter and save text, copy/move/paste including screen captures, install printers, set default printer, print documents, and manage the print queue.
File Management
Navigate hierarchical drives and folders; view properties and file types; search and recent files; select, sort, copy, move, delete, restore, and empty recycle bin; storage media and KB/MB/GB/TB; available space; compress and extract archives.
Networks
Define networks, Internet, intranet, and VPN; transfer rates; upload/download; ISP and connection options; recognise secured vs open Wi-Fi; connect to wireless networks.
Security and Well-Being
Password policies, firewalls, remote backups, software updates, malware types and infection routes, anti-virus scans, ergonomic breaks and posture, energy-saving and recycling practices, and accessibility tools.
How to Pass the ICDL Computer 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.
- Assessment: Single automated ICDL Workforce / Base 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 Accredited Test Centre.
- Time limit: 45 minutes for the official certification test.
- Exam fee: Fees are not set centrally by ICDL South Africa. Training, testing, and candidate registration costs vary by Accredited Test Centre; contact your local centre for the current module price.
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 Essentials Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the official ICDL Computer Essentials test?
The certification test contains 36 multiple-choice questions, each worth one mark, delivered in a 45-minute session at an ICDL Accredited Test Centre.
What score do I need to pass ICDL Computer Essentials?
The pass mark is 75%, which means at least 27 correct answers out of 36 marks, following ICDL Foundation standard specifications for Base and Workforce modules.
Where do I take the exam in South Africa?
You sit the test at an ICDL Accredited Test Centre. ICDL South Africa provides a centre finder at icdl.org.za; each centre sets its own training and testing fees.
Which syllabus version does this practice cover?
Questions are aligned to ICDL Computer Essentials Syllabus Version 1.0, the version referenced on ICDL South Africa and ICDL Global module pages with six categories from Computers and Devices through Security and Well-Being.
Is Computer Essentials part of ICDL Base?
Yes. Computer Essentials is one of the ICDL Base / Workforce essential modules, alongside Online Essentials, Word Processing, and Spreadsheets, toward the ICDL Base certificate.
Are these the official ICDL exam questions?
No. These are original OpenExamPrep multiple-choice items for extra drill. ICDL publishes separate sample tests on its website; live certification tests also include practical tasks not fully replicated here.