Maintaining Computer Systems and Networks

Maintaining Computer Systems and Networks

• Technical terms:
  • OHS: Occupational Health and Safety
  • LAN Card: Local Area Network interface card
  • Server: A special computer that users on the network can access to carry out a particular job
  • Port Hub/Port: A connector on the back of a computer or other device
  • Modem: A device that allows a computer to share data or exchange information
  • USB: Universal Serial Port
  • Scanner: An input device that reads text or illustrations printed on paper and translates the information into a form that a computer can use
  • Printer: A hardware device that produces a paper copy of the information generated by the computer
  • Flash drive: A portable storage device that plugs directly into a USB port
  • Network: A group of computers and associated devices connected by communications facilities
  • OS: Operating system software that controls the allocation and use of programs and data
  • Motherboard: Contains the CPU, BIOS, Memory, mass storage interfaces, serial and parallel ports, expansion slots, and controllers required to control standard peripheral devices
  • UTP: Unshielded Twisted Pair, the least expensive and most popular network media

Plan and Prepare for Maintenance and Repair

• Importance of planning and preparing systematic maintenance procedures:
  • Saves time, money, and frustration
  • Ensures trouble-free use and optimal performance
  • Allows for proper care and maintenance of computer systems
• Types of maintenance procedures:
  • Hardware maintenance: Testing and cleaning of equipment
  • Information system maintenance: Routine updating of master files
  • Software or program maintenance: Updating application programs to meet changing information requirements
  • Disk or file maintenance: Periodic reorganizing of disk files that have become fragmented

Workplace Procedures

• Identify hazards and assess risk:
  • Execution of OHS policies and procedures
  • Follow instructions and procedures in the workplace with minimal supervision
• Tools:
  • Programs used for software development or system maintenance
  • Programs that help users analyze or search for data
  • On-screen functions in graphics programs
  • Software control panels for setting user preferences
• Personal Protective Equipment:
  • Anti-static devices to protect against electrostatic discharge
  • Power surge protectors to protect against sudden power surges
  • Personal equipment such as small paintbrushes, screwdrivers, pliers, and tweezers

Periodic Maintenance Scheme

• Daily schedule:
  • Update virus and spyware definitions
  • Do incremental backup of updated files
  • Reboot upon crash
• Weekly schedule:
  • Full virus and spyware scan
  • Complete backup of files
  • Patch up with latest software updates
• Monthly schedule:
  • Clean PC inside and out
  • Defragment hard drive
• Yearly schedule:
  • Check and clean up unused programs
  • Reformat hard drive and reinstall operating system
  • Make a full diagnostic check on hardware and software

Removing Viruses from Infected Machines

• Computer Virus:
  • A destructive executable program that infects other programs in the system and spreads by replicating itself
  • Designed to damage victim's computer files
• Different aspects of computer viruses:
  • Finder: Searches for new uninfected files and targets them
  • Replicator: Infects files by multiplying itself
• Sources of virus infection:
  • Infected CDs, DVDs, pen drives, etc.
  • Email
  • Browsing infected sites
  • Downloading files from the internet
• Steps to remove viruses:
  • Buy or download antivirus software
  • Install and update antivirus software
  • Do a complete system scan
• Methods of eliminating viruses:
  • Removing the virus from the host file
  • Quarantining the file to render the virus inactive
• Types of viruses:
  • Boot viruses
  • Program viruses
  • Multipartite viruses
  • Stealth viruses
  • Polymorphic viruses
  • Macro viruses
• Examples of antivirus software:
  • Symantec Norton Antivirus
  • AVG Antivirus
  • McAfee Scan
  • Microsoft Antivirus

This quiz covers technical terms and concepts related to maintaining computer systems and networks, including occupational health and safety, LAN cards, servers, port hubs, and modems.