Networking and Software Development Overview

Definition: Interconnected systems allowing data exchange.
Types:
- LAN (Local Area Network): Covers small geographic areas like homes or offices.
- WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers larger geographic areas, such as cities or countries.
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Covers a city or large campus.
Protocols:
- TCP/IP: Fundamental suite for internet communication.
- HTTP/HTTPS: Protocols for web data transfer.
- FTP: Used for transferring files.
Components:
- Routers: Direct data packets between networks.
- Switches: Connect devices in a LAN.
- Modems: Convert signals for data transmission over phone lines or cables.

Definition: Process of designing, creating, and maintaining software applications.
Phases:
- Planning: Define goals and feasibility.
- Design: Architectural and interface design.
- Development: Actual coding of the software.
- Testing: Identify and fix bugs.
- Deployment: Release the software to users.
- Maintenance: Ongoing support and updates.
Methodologies:
- Agile: Iterative and collaborative approach.
- Waterfall: Sequential design process.
- DevOps: Combines development and IT operations for faster delivery.

Definition: Protection of computer systems and networks from theft or damage.
Components:
- Firewalls: Control incoming and outgoing network traffic.
- Antivirus Software: Detects and removes malware.
- Encryption: Secures data by converting it into a coded format.
Common Threats:
- Phishing: Deceptive attempts to obtain sensitive information.
- Malware: Malicious software designed to harm or exploit devices.
- Ransomware: Locks data and demands payment for access.
Best Practices:
- Regular software updates.
- Strong, unique passwords.
- Employee training on security awareness.

Definition: Systematic organization and management of data.
Types of Databases:
- Relational Databases: Use tables to store data (e.g., SQL).
- NoSQL Databases: Non-tabular and can handle unstructured data (e.g., MongoDB).
Key Concepts:
- DBMS (Database Management System): Software for creating and managing databases.
- SQL (Structured Query Language): Language for querying relational databases.
- Normalization: Process of organizing data to reduce redundancy.
Backup and Recovery: Ensuring data integrity through regular backups and recovery plans.

Definition: Exchange of information via digital platforms.
Methods:
- Email: Common for formal and informal communication.
- Messaging Apps: Instant communication (e.g., WhatsApp, Slack).
- Video Conferencing: Real-time video interaction (e.g., Zoom, Skype).
Tools:
- Social Media: Platforms for sharing information and networking (e.g., Facebook, Twitter).
- Blogs and Forums: For content sharing and discussions.
Challenges:
- Information Overload: Difficulty in processing large volumes of data.
- Privacy Concerns: Risks associated with sharing personal information online.
- Digital Etiquette: Importance of professionalism in online communication.

Interconnected systems facilitate data exchange among devices.
Types of networks include:
- LAN (Local Area Network): Small geographic areas like homes or offices.
- WAN (Wide Area Network): Larger regions such as cities or countries.
- MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): Specifically targets a city or large campus.
Important protocols for communication:
- TCP/IP: Core suite for internet networking.
- HTTP/HTTPS: Standards for transferring web data securely.
- FTP: Used for file transfers between systems.
Key networking components:
- Routers: Direct data packets between different networks.
- Switches: Facilitate connections among devices within a LAN.
- Modems: Convert signals for data transmission over various media.

Involves the design, creation, and ongoing maintenance of software applications.
Development phases encompass:
- Planning: Establishing goals and evaluating feasibility.
- Design: Creating architectural layouts and interface designs.
- Development: Actual coding and software building process.
- Testing: Identifying and resolving bugs.
- Deployment: Releasing the finished software to users.
- Maintenance: Providing continuous updates and support.
Different methodologies include:
- Agile: Focuses on iterative processes and team collaboration.
- Waterfall: Follows a linear and sequential design model.
- DevOps: Merges development and IT operations for quicker delivery.

Protects computer systems and networks from theft, damage, or disruption.
Key components of cybersecurity:
- Firewalls: Monitor and control network traffic.
- Antivirus Software: Detects and removes harmful malware.
- Encryption: Ensures data is secured by converting it into a coded format.
Common cybersecurity threats:
- Phishing: Attempts to deceive users into divulging sensitive information.
- Malware: Software designed to disrupt or damage systems.
- Ransomware: Locks files and demands payment for access.
Best practices for maintaining security:
- Regularly updating software to patch vulnerabilities.
- Creating strong, unique passwords for accounts.
- Providing employee training focused on security awareness.

Systematic organization and oversight of data.
Types of databases include:
- Relational Databases: Utilize tables for data storage (e.g., SQL).
- NoSQL Databases: Non-tabular and can manage unstructured data (e.g., MongoDB).
Key concepts in database management include:
- DBMS (Database Management System): Software for database creation and administration.
- SQL (Structured Query Language): A specialized language for querying and managing relational databases.
- Normalization: Organizing data to minimize redundancy and improve integrity.
- Backup and Recovery: Essential for maintaining data integrity through regular backup processes.

Refers to how information is exchanged using digital platforms.
Major communication methods consist of:
- Email: Utilized for both formal and informal messages.
- Messaging Apps: Allow for instant communication (e.g., WhatsApp, Slack).
- Video Conferencing: Enables real-time video interactions (e.g., Zoom, Skype).
Tools for digital communication include:
- Social Media: Platforms like Facebook and Twitter for networking and information sharing.
- Blogs and Forums: Spaces for content discussion and exchange.
Challenges faced in digital communication:
- Information Overload: Complication in managing large amounts of data.
- Privacy Concerns: Risks linked to sharing personal information online.
- Digital Etiquette: Necessity for professionalism in online interactions.