| Date | May 2021 | Marks available | 2 | Reference code | 21M.1.SL.TZ0.4 |
| Level | SL | Paper | 1 | Time zone | no time zone |
| Command term | Identify | Question number | 4 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Identify two reasons why patches may be necessary for an operating system.
Identify two methods that can be used to obtain these patches.
Markscheme
Award [2 max]
Allows bugs/error in operating system to be repaired;
Allows new features to be added to operating system (such as security updates, improving functionality, improving usability, etc.);
Allows compatibility issues to be improved;
Award [2 max]
Automatic patches/updates sent (via internet);
User requested updates (via internet);
Patches sent on CD/DVD/memory stick;
Examiners report
Most candidates were able to identify at least one reason why patches may be necessary for an operating system, with a large proportion correctly naming two reasons.
Some candidates correctly identified one or two methods of obtaining patches, for example, by downloading them or installing them from an external device. However, many candidates incorrectly gave the same method twice, for example, by suggesting two methods of downloading patches.
