Troubleshooting Computer Problems

Question 1

Name the two main approaches of linear trouble shooting

Answer 1

Bottom-up approach

Top-down approach

Question 2

Describe the top-down approach of troubleshooting

Answer 2

When you apply a top-down approach, you start with the user application and work your way down the layers of the OSI model. It is usually the simple route to troubleshooting.

Question 3

Describe the bottom-up approach to troubleshooting. State when and why it may be used in a troubleshooting scenario

Answer 3

The bottom-up approach starts with examining the physical components of the computer system and working up to the applications layer. It is normally used when the problem is expected to be physical. In this case it is effective and efficient and saves you time from troubleshooting higher level issues.

Question 4

Describe the half-split method and one of its advantages.

Answer 4

The half split method is normally used by more experienced technicians. An educated guess will be made as to where the fault may lie and then progress forward or backwards from that point. This is a quick and efficient way to troubleshoot by allowing you to eliminate half the remaining system with each test.

Question 5

List steps that would be followed as part of the test strategy regardless of what the problem may be when troubleshooting

Answer 5

Identify the symptoms of the problem
Identify the area affected
Identify any recently applied changes
Identify the most likely source of the problem
Implement the solution
Test the solution
Analyse the possible effects of the solution
Document everything throughout the process

Question 6

Describe how you would determine where the problem lies when troubleshooting software

Answer 6

Problem could lie in design, test plan, coding, combo of them
Check design matches requirements
Check test plan is accurate for design
Desk check code