CSEC INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY · THEORY · LESSON A4

Cloud and Local Storage, Choosing a Computer System, and Troubleshooting

Evaluating cloud storage against local storage, judging whether a system suits a purpose by its processor, RAM, storage, software and devices, and solving simple cable, monitor, printer and battery faults.

Sections 1 to 31.51.91.10≈ 50 min🎮 3 games
Before you start

By the end of this lesson you can…

Step 1 · Watch

Explainer video

5 narrated scenes. Press play, listen and read along — the points appear as they are explained. Use ‹ Prev / Next › or the scene bar to jump to any scene.

LESSON A4 · EXPLAINER

Cloud and Local Storage, Choosing a Computer System, and Troubleshooting

A graphic designer, a gamer and a bank clerk all need a computer, but the right specification for each is different. This lesson shows you how to decide, and how to fix the simple faults.

Narration uses your device’s built-in voice. No sound? Switch to “Captions only” — the captions advance on their own.

Explore in 3D

Cloud and local storage in 3D

Save a file to the cloud or to the local disk, with the internet on and off.

Step 2 · Read

Key notes

Copy these into your notebook in your own words — that is how they stick.

Local storage

Data on devices you own: hard disk, flash drive, memory card.

Cloud storage

Data on remote servers reached over the Internet.

Compare

Capacity, cost, accessibility, security.

System specification

CPU type/speed, RAM, storage capacity/speed, software, input/output devices.

Gaming / video editing

Fast CPU, large RAM, graphics, large storage.

Cable fault

Loose cable: re-seat it.

Monitor fault

Adjust monitor controls.

Printer / battery

Replace the cartridge / charge or replace the battery.

EXAM TIPS & COMMON MISTAKES

  • Cloud “needs Internet” is both an accessibility advantage (anywhere) and a disadvantage (no Internet, no access): say which.
  • When matching a system to a task, name the spec AND the reason.
  • Always say “check that the cable is firmly connected” before suggesting expensive fixes.
  • Know the four named faults from the syllabus: cable, monitor, printer, battery.
Play & practise

Games

3 quick games on this lesson. Earn XP and badges as you play — your best score for each game is saved. Games are for practice and do not change your exam readiness. More games in the Information Technology Arcade.

Step 3 · Practise

Paper 1 practice — multiple choice

8 items modelled on real CSEC Paper 1 questions. Choose one answer for each, then check. Aim for 80% or better. Work each item on paper first.

Syllabus 1.5

1. Data stored on remote servers and accessed over the Internet is held in

Answer: A. That is cloud storage.
Syllabus 1.5

2. Which is an ADVANTAGE of cloud storage?

Answer: B. Cloud files are accessible anywhere with Internet.
Syllabus 1.5

3. Which is a DISADVANTAGE of cloud storage?

Answer: C. Without Internet the cloud cannot be reached.
Syllabus 1.9

4. Which feature is MOST important for a computer used for video editing?

Answer: D. Video editing is processor, memory and storage intensive.
Syllabus 1.9

5. A computer used ONLY for web browsing and email needs

Answer: A. Light tasks need modest specifications.
Syllabus 1.10

6. A printer prints very faint pages. The most likely cause is

Answer: B. The ink or toner is running out.
Syllabus 1.10

7. A computer shows no display, but the power light is on. What should you check FIRST?

Answer: C. Check the simplest cause first.
Syllabus 1.10

8. A laptop works only when plugged in and shuts down at once when unplugged. The likely fault is a

Answer: D. Battery problem.
Step 4 · Apply

Paper 2 practice — structured questions

Write full answers, then reveal the mark scheme and tick the points you earned (15 marks in total). Show all your working — method marks count. Your answers are saved on this device.

Paper 2 style · Choosing a system

Question 1 [15 marks]

Marcus is a graphic designer. He edits large photographs and videos and often works at clients’ offices. He is deciding between saving his files on a portable hard drive or in the cloud.

(a) (a) State three specifications Marcus should look for in his computer, giving a reason for each. [6]

MARK SCHEME — (a) (max 6)

(b) (b) Explain two advantages of storing his files in the cloud. [4]

MARK SCHEME — (b) (max 4)

(c) (c) State two disadvantages of cloud storage for Marcus. [2]

MARK SCHEME — (c) (max 2)

(d) (d) His printer prints faint pages and his monitor screen flickers. Suggest a solution for each. [3]

MARK SCHEME — (d) (max 3)

Your progress

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Sources

Where this topic appears in CSEC papers

Find these in your own past-paper booklets for extra timed practice. Items above are written in the style of these papers; any adapted from a specific question say so.