Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for L1 Engineer Roles – 2026

Preparing for an L1 engineer job interview? Here is a list of 20 up-to-date interview questions with simple answers to help you demonstrate your technical knowledge, ability to handle complex situations, and alignment with company values. These questions cover a range of areas relevant to an L1 engineer, including technical skills, decision-making, problem-solving, and teamwork.

General Questions

• 1. Can you tell us about your experience as an L1 engineer?
  As an L1 engineer, I have been involved in troubleshooting technical issues, monitoring system performance, and providing technical assistance to clients. I have also worked on projects involving hardware and software installations, upgrades, and maintenance.
• 2. How do you handle high-pressure situations and tight deadlines?
  I have developed strong time management skills and the ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. I also believe in effective communication and collaboration with team members to delegate tasks and meet deadlines efficiently.
• 3. How do you keep up with the latest industry developments?
  I regularly attend workshops, training sessions, and online courses to stay updated on the latest technologies and tools relevant to my role as an L1 engineer. I am also an active member of online communities where professionals share their knowledge and experiences.
• 4. Can you give an example of a time when you had to think on your feet and come up with a quick solution?
  In my previous role, I encountered a critical hardware failure during a client's event. I quickly assessed the situation, identified the root cause, and found a workaround solution to prevent further disruptions to the event. I also worked with the team to fix the issue permanently after the event.
• 5. How do you prioritize and manage your workload?
  I prioritize my workload based on the urgency and impact of tasks. I also make use of project management tools and regularly check in with my team to ensure we are on track to meet deadlines. In case of an urgent task, I communicate with my team to delegate tasks and maintain a balanced workload.

Technical Skills

• 6. What are the main components of a computer?
  The main components of a computer are the central processing unit (CPU), memory, motherboard, storage devices, and input/output devices.
• 7. What are the different types of networks and their characteristics?
  The different types of networks are LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), MAN (Metropolitan Area Network), and WLAN (Wireless Local Area Network). LAN is typically limited to a small geographical area, while WAN covers a larger area. MAN is a larger version of LAN, and WLAN allows for wireless connectivity.
• 8. How does DNS (Domain Name System) work?
  DNS is a system that translates domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses (e.g., 93.184.216.34), allowing computers to communicate with each other over the internet. When a user enters a domain name, their device sends a request to a DNS server, which then returns the corresponding IP address.
• 9. What is the purpose of RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks)?
  RAID is a data storage technology that combines multiple physical disks into a single logical unit for improved performance, reliability, and capacity. It uses a variety of techniques such as mirroring, striping, and parity to distribute data across multiple drives and safeguard against data loss.
• 10. What is the difference between TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol)?
  TCP is a connection-oriented protocol that guarantees reliable and secure data transfer between devices, while UDP is a connectionless protocol that provides faster transfer but may result in data loss. TCP is typically used for applications such as web browsing and email, while UDP is used for real-time applications such as video conferencing and online gaming.

Decision-Making & Problem-Solving

• 11. How do you approach a problem when you don't have all the necessary information?
  My first step is to gather as much information as possible from available sources and consult with team members or experts if needed. If all information is not available, I make informed assumptions based on my knowledge and experience to come up with a solution.
• 12. Can you give an example of a time when you had to make a difficult decision?
  In my previous role, I had to make a decision regarding a system upgrade that had a limited budget and timeline. I consulted with the team to identify critical requirements and prioritized accordingly. I also recommended alternatives that were more cost-effective and achievable within the given timeline.
• 13. How do you handle conflicts in a team setting?
  I believe in open communication and actively listening to all perspectives to understand the root cause of conflicts. I then work with the team to find a mutually beneficial solution and ensure that all team members feel heard and respected.
• 14. How do you troubleshoot a technical issue when you don't have access to the internet?
  In such situations, I rely on my experience and knowledge of troubleshooting techniques to identify the root cause and find a solution. I also make use of offline resources and consult with colleagues or experts if needed.
• 15. How do you stay organized and ensure all tasks are completed on time?
  I make use of project management tools to keep track of tasks and deadlines. I also prioritize tasks and regularly communicate with my team to ensure we are on the same page. In case of unexpected delays, I re-evaluate priorities and adjust the plan accordingly.

Teamwork & Cultural Fit

• 16. How do you ensure effective communication within a team?
  I believe in listening actively, responding promptly, and providing feedback constructively. I also make sure to ask for clarification if needed and encourage open communication channels among team members.
• 17. How do you handle difficult team members?
  I first try to understand the reason behind their behavior and address any underlying concerns. If the issue persists, I involve a team leader or HR to find a solution. I also make sure to maintain a professional and respectful attitude towards all team members.
• 18. What do you value most in a team environment?
  I value open communication, collaboration, and a positive work culture. I believe that teamwork is essential for accomplishing goals efficiently and for personal and professional growth.
• 19. How do you handle multiple team projects at the same time?
  I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and the amount of effort required. I also communicate with my team and delegate tasks accordingly. If needed, I ask for additional resources or adjust deadlines to maintain a balanced workload.
• 20. How do you contribute to maintaining a positive work culture?
  I believe in leading by example and maintaining a positive attitude towards my work and colleagues. I also actively participate in team-building activities and offer support and assistance to team members when needed.