IT Systems: Components and Functions

• An IT system involves interconnected components that handle information by collecting, processing, storing, and distributing it.
• These systems facilitate various organizational functions and processes.
• An IT system is composed of hardware, software, data, procedures, and the people who use and manage it.
• Hardware includes physical components like servers, workstations, networking devices, and peripherals.
• Software includes the programs and applications that instruct the hardware.
• Data represents the raw material processed by the system into useful information.
• Procedures consist of documented steps and guidelines for system use.
• People refers to the users and operators interacting with the IT system.

Hardware Components

• Central Processing Unit (CPU) functions as the "brain" of the computer, executing instructions.
• Memory (RAM) provides temporary storage for data and instructions actively used by the CPU.
• Storage Devices are for permanent data storage, including hard drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and optical drives.
• Input Devices allow users to enter data, such as keyboards, mice, and scanners.
• Output Devices display or present processed information, such as monitors, printers, and speakers.
• Networking Devices facilitate communication between computers and networks and include routers, switches, and modems.

Software Components

• Operating System (OS) manages hardware and software resources, providing a platform for applications; examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Application Software programs are designed to perform specific user tasks, like word processors, spreadsheets, and web browsers.
• System Software includes utilities and tools supporting the OS and hardware, such as antivirus and disk defragmenters.
• Programming Languages are used to create software applications such as Python, Java, and C++.
• Firmware is embedded software within hardware devices controlling their basic functions.

Data Concepts

• Data consists of raw, unorganized facts and figures.
• Information is the result of processed, organized, and structured data, providing context and meaning.
• A Database is an organized collection of data, typically stored and accessed electronically.
• A Data Warehouse serves as a central repository, integrating data from various sources for reporting and analysis.
• Data Mining is the process of discovering patterns and insights from large datasets.
• Big Data refers to extremely large and complex datasets that are difficult to process using traditional methods.

Networking Fundamentals

• A Network is a collection of interconnected devices that communicate and share resources.
• Local Area Network (LAN) connects devices within a limited area, like an office or home.
• Wide Area Network (WAN) connects devices over a large geographical area, spanning cities or countries.
• The Internet is a global network of interconnected networks.
• An Intranet is a private network within an organization using internet technologies.
• An Extranet extends an intranet to include external users like customers or partners.
• An IP Address is a unique numerical identifier for each device on a network.
• A Router forwards data packets between networks.
• A Switch connects devices within a network, forwarding data only to the intended recipient.
• A Firewall is a security system that controls network traffic, blocking unauthorized access.

Security Principles

• Confidentiality ensures information is accessible only to authorized individuals.
• Integrity maintains data accuracy and completeness.
• Availability ensures systems and data are accessible when needed.
• Authentication verifies the identity of users or devices.
• Authorization determines the resources a user/device can access.
• Encryption converts data into an unreadable format for protection.
• Firewalls monitor and control network traffic.
• Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) monitor network traffic for suspicious activity.
• Antivirus Software protects against malware and viruses.

System Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

• Planning involves defining project scope, objectives, and resources.
• Analysis includes gathering and analyzing requirements.
• Design focuses on creating system architecture, database design, and user interface.
• Implementation involves coding, installing hardware, and configuring software.
• Testing verifies the system meets requirements and functions correctly.
• Deployment releases the system to users.
• Maintenance provides ongoing support, updates, and bug fixes.

Database Management Systems (DBMS)

• Relational Databases organize data into tables with rows and columns.
• SQL (Structured Query Language) is the standard language for managing and querying relational databases.
• NoSQL Databases are non-relational, designed for handling large volumes of unstructured data.
• A Database Schema defines the structure and organization of a database.
• A Primary Key uniquely identifies each record in a table.
• A Foreign Key links two tables in a relational database.

Cloud Computing

• Cloud Computing delivers computing services (servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, and intelligence) over the Internet.
• Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) offers access to computing infrastructure like servers and storage.
• Platform as a Service (PaaS) provides a platform for developing and deploying applications.
• Software as a Service (SaaS) provides access to software applications over the internet.
• A Public Cloud provides cloud services to the general public.
• A Private Cloud is cloud infrastructure operated for a single organization.
• A Hybrid Cloud combines public and private cloud services.

IT Infrastructure

• Servers are powerful computers providing resources and services to other devices on a network.
• Data Centers are facilities housing servers and other IT equipment.
• Virtualization creates virtual versions of hardware and software resources.
• Storage Area Network (SAN) is a dedicated network providing access to storage devices.
• Network Attached Storage (NAS) is a file-level storage device connected to a network.

Operating Systems

• Windows is an operating system developed by Microsoft.
• macOS is an operating system by Apple for Macintosh computers.
• Linux is an open-source operating system.
• Mobile Operating Systems are designed for mobile devices, such as Android and iOS.
• Server Operating Systems are designed for servers, such as Windows Server and Linux Server.

Programming Languages

• Python is a high-level, general-purpose programming language.
• Java is a widely used object-oriented programming language.
• C++ is a powerful language for system development and high-performance applications.
• JavaScript is a scripting language primarily for web development.
• HTML is the standard markup language for creating web pages.
• CSS is a style sheet language controlling the presentation of web pages.

IT Service Management (ITSM)

• ITSM is a framework for managing IT services to meet business needs.
• ITIL (Information Technology Infrastructure Library) is a set of best practices for ITSM.
• A Service Desk is a single point of contact for users to report issues and request services.
• Incident Management focuses on restoring normal service operation quickly.
• Problem Management identifies and resolves the root causes of incidents.
• Change Management manages changes to IT services in a controlled manner.

Emerging Technologies

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) involves developing computer systems that perform tasks requiring human intelligence.
• Machine Learning (ML) is a subset of AI enabling systems to learn from data without explicit programming.
• Internet of Things (IoT) is a network of interconnected devices that collect and exchange data.
• Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology enabling secure and transparent transactions.
• Cybersecurity protects computer systems and networks from cyber threats.

Explore the fundamental components of an IT system, including hardware, software, and people. Understand how these elements interact to support organizational functions. Learn about the role of hardware components such as CPU, memory, and storage devices.