Information Technology Module 2 GEN018

Study Notes

IT encompasses tools and systems that gather, process, store, protect, and transfer information.
The term Information and Communications Technology (ICT) emphasizes the importance of network connections in computing.

Input devices provide data to the computer.
The computer processes this data and outputs results through output devices, which include screens and storage devices.

Monitor: Displays images and text.
Mouse: A pointing device for navigation and command selection.
Printer: Outputs documents on paper.
Speaker: Produces sound for audio output.
Power Supply: Regulates electrical power to computer components.
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Accelerates image creation for output.
Hard Disk: Stores files for future access.
RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporarily holds data and commands for quick access.
Motherboard: Central hub connecting all hardware components; facilitates data and power transfer.
Processor (CPU): Executes calculations and processes commands.
Computer Case: Houses and safeguards internal components.
Keyboard: Input device for typing commands.

Hard disks, USB flash drives, diskettes, CD/DVD discs, memory cards, network drives, and online/cloud storage.

Software is a program that performs tasks using built-in hardware.
Operating System (OS): Core program loaded at startup (e.g., Windows, Mac OS, Linux).
Application Software: Programs designed for specific tasks (e.g., word processors, games, browsers).

Mainframe: Centralized powerful computers handling vast data transactions.
Supercomputer: High-speed computers designed for complex calculations; used in research and forecasting.
Wearable Computers: Technology integrated into clothing and accessories for functionality tracking.

POLAN: Point to multipoint LAN architecture using optical splitters for distributing signals.
Enterprise Private Network (EPN): Secure network for businesses across multiple locations.
Virtual Private Network (VPN): Extends private networks over the internet, providing secure remote access.

Client/Server Networks: Centralized servers accessed by clients.
Peer-to-Peer Networks: Devices share equal responsibilities, commonly used in homes.

Star Topology: Each device connects independently to a central node; failure in one does not disrupt others.
Bus Topology: All devices share a single cable; failure can bring down the network.
Ring Topology: Devices are connected in a circle; signal travels in one direction, retries to reach its destination.

Open System: Connected to a network for communication.
Closed System: Not network-connected, limiting communication capabilities.
IP Address: Unique logical address for each device in a network.
MAC Address: Unique physical address linked to the network device hardware.
Port: Channel for data transmission.
Nodes: Any devices that send/receive data on a network.
Network Packets: Units of data sent between nodes.
Routers: Devices managing data packets and directing traffic within networks.
Network Address Translation (NAT): Technique allowing multiple devices to share a single public IP address.