ICT Fundamentals and the Evolution of the Web

ICT Fundamentals

• Information: Facts acquired about a subject or individual.
• Communication: The process of sharing information or news.
• Technology: Machinery and equipment developed through knowledge.
• ICT: Involves various communication technologies for data exchange.
• State of the ICT: Reflects the current landscape of ICT globally.

The World Wide Web (WWW)

• An information system linking documents via hypertext.
• URL (Uniform Resource Locator): The address for accessing resources on the internet.
• Interlinked by hypertext links, allowing direct connections to other documents.

Evolution of the Web

• Web 1.0:

  • Emerged in the early 1990s, created by Tim Berners-Lee.
  • Characterized by static, unchangeable pages.

• Web 2.0:

  • Introduced in 1999, featuring dynamic pages.
  • Users interact with pages differently; allows comments and account creation.
  • Encourages user-generated content and social interaction.

Key Features of Web 2.0

• Folksonomy: Users categorize information with freely chosen keywords (tagging).
• Rich Use Experience: Interactive and responsive design based on user input.
• Longtail Services: On-demand services rather than one-time purchases.
• Software as a Service (SaaS): Subscription-based access to applications.
• Mass Participation: Universal access enables diverse content sharing.

Web 3.0

• Known as the Semantic Web, promoted by W3C (World Wide Web Consortium).
• Emphasizes data sharing and revision across various applications and communities.

Challenges of Web 3.0

• Compatibility Issues: HTML files may lack support.
• Security Risks: Personal data vulnerabilities through saved user references.
• Vastness: Billions of web pages complicate navigation.
• Vagueness: Imprecise language and terms can hinder clarity.

Trends in ICT

• Convergence: The integration of technologies to achieve unified goals.
• Social Media: Online platforms for interaction and information sharing.
• Social Networks: Facilitate connections among users.
• Bookmarking Websites: Tools for storing and managing web links.
• Media Sharing: Platforms for uploading and distributing media content.
• Microblogging: Short content updates focused on user engagement.
• Blogs and Forums: Spaces for expressing opinions and exchanging knowledge.
• Assistive Media: Services for individuals with visual or reading impairments.

Operating Systems

• iOS (Apple), Android (Google), Blackberry OS, Windows Phone, Symbian, WebOS (LG), Windows Mobile.

Online Systems and Functions

• Online Systems: Require internet connectivity for access.
• Online Functions: Email, server notifications, live updates, etc.

Online Platforms

• Online marketplaces, social media, search engines, communication services, payment systems, advertising platforms, and creative content outlets.

Internet Safety Guidelines

• Emphasize safety, privacy, and reliability.
• Risks associated with sharing certain personal information, including:
  • Full names and school history
  • Contact numbers and addresses
  • Birth dates

Internet Threats

• Malware: Malicious software types include:
  • Virus: Attaches to files; needs user action to replicate.
  • Worms: Self-replicating; slows down systems without deleting files.
  • Trojan Horse: Malicious software posing as legitimate applications.
  • Spyware: Collects data about users for malicious purposes.
  • Adware: Unwanted advertisements displayed on user screens.
• Spam: Unwanted emails flooding user inboxes.
• Phishing: Identity theft tactic via fraudulent communication.
• Pharming: Redirecting users to fake websites.

Netiquette (Network Etiquette)

• Adhere to the golden rule of treating others as you wish to be treated.
• Avoid flaming (internet insults), typing in all caps, and spamming.
• Interact cautiously with strangers online, respect copyright, and use proper grammar.
• Ensure safe shopping on sites with robust security measures like TLS or SSL.