ITIL 4 Foundation Practice Exam

How is a configuration item (CI) defined?

1. Any component that needs to be managed to deliver an IT service

2. A software application that aids service management

3. An IT service that requires constant monitoring

4. A hardware device used within the IT environment

The correct answer is: Any component that needs to be managed to deliver an IT service

A configuration item (CI) is defined as any component that needs to be managed to deliver an IT service. This includes not only the hardware and software components but also any services, documentation, or other assets that contribute to the delivery of an IT service. The broad definition of a CI is significant because it allows organizations to maintain a comprehensive inventory of all elements critical to service management. This inventory is essential for effective configuration management, ensuring that all aspects of the IT service are accounted for and can be controlled. The understanding that a CI can encompass various types of components—including hardware, software, documentation, and services—highlights the importance of a holistic view in IT service management. This definition facilitates change management, incident management, and problem management processes, as all items related to services can be tracked and monitored as part of the overall service lifecycle. While the other options mention specific types of components or services, they do not capture the complete essence of what constitutes a configuration item, which is the overarching requirement for anything that needs to be managed to support the delivery of IT services.