Study Guide - Computers and Computing Systems (Part 1) PDF

Next Prev Welcome Unit Name 1 Unit Name 2 Unit Name 3 Unit Name 4 Unit Name 5 Computers and Computing System Study Guide ...

Next Prev Welcome Unit Name 1 Unit Name 2 Unit Name 3 Unit Name 4 Unit Name 5 Computers and Computing System Study Guide  Prev Table of Contents Welcome Welcome........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 1....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 Unit Name 1 1.1. Welcome to Problem solving skills for IT Professionals.................................................................................................................................................................... 3 1.1.1. Introduction to this Unit.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 3 1.2. KT0101 - Identification of the problem............................................................................................................................................................................................ 4 1.2.1. CHALLENGES FACING IT PROFESSIONALS................................................................................................................................................................................ 5 1.2.2. KT0102 Establishing a probable cause........................................................................................................................................................................................ 9 Unit Name 2 1.2.3. KT0103 Testing to determine the cause................................................................................................................................................................................ 10 1.2.4. KT0104 Establishing a plan to resolve the problem.............................................................................................................................................................. 12 1.2.5. KT0105 Implementing your solution..................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 1.2.6. KT0106 Verifying functionality............................................................................................................................................................................................... 15 Unit Name 3 1.2.7. KT0107 Implementing preventative measures...................................................................................................................................................................... 16 1.2.8. KT0108 Documenting results................................................................................................................................................................................................. 21 Techniques for Safety................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25 2.1. Welcome to Techniques for safety................................................................................................................................................................................................ 26 Unit Name 4 2.1.1. Introduction to this Unit........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 26 2.2.1. KT0201 Personal protective equipment................................................................................................................................................................................ 28 2.2.2. KT0202 Chemicals.................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 29 2.2.3. KT0203 Cables...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 30 2.2.4. KT0204 Hazards (Tripping, electrical, fire, jewellery, etc.)......................................................................................................................................................... 33 Unit Name 5 2.2.5. KT0205 Environmental risks...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 37 2.2.6. KT0206 Ergonomics and lifting techniques............................................................................................................................................................................... 40 Next..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 42 Prev 3.1. Welcome to System Components.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 43 3.1.1. Introduction to this Unit........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 43 Welcome 3.2. System Components..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 44 3.2.1. Storage devices such as hard drives, magnetic tapes, flash drives....................................................................................................................................... 45 3.2.2. KT0302 Solid-state drives such as IDE, SATA, and SCSI............................................................................................................................................................ 49 3.2.3. Processors and CPUs, processing speeds, operating systems, and contranatural Assessment Criteria and Weight............................................................ 51 Unit Name 1..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 54 4.1. Welcome to Motherboards........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 55 4.1.1. Introduction to this Unit........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 55 4.2. Motherboards............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 56 4.2.1. KT0401 Function of motherboard......................................................................................................................................................................................... 57 Unit Name 2 4.2.2. KT0402 Location of primary components................................................................................................................................................................................ 58 4.2.3. KT0403 Motherboard chipsets, audio connections, drive activity light, the power light, on/off buttons, and USB connections.......................................... 60..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 62 5.1. Welcome to Processors................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 63 Unit Name 3 5.1.1. Introduction to this Unit........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 63 5.2. Processors..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 64 5.2.1. KT0501 Processors................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 65 5.2.2. KT0502 Terminology................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 67 Unit Name 4 5.2.3. KT0503 Processor speeds in megahertz and gigahertz........................................................................................................................................................ 69 5.2.4. KT0504 Architecture, including registers, cache memory, virtualization, graphics processing units, throttling, and overclocking....................................... 71 Memory....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 73 6.1. Welcome to Memory.................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 74 6.1.1. Introduction to this Unit........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 74 Unit Name 5 6.2. Memory........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 75 6.2.1. KT0601 Types of memory: RAM and ROM including DRAM, SRAM, CMOS RAM, and VRAM............................................................................................. 76 6.2.2. KT0602 Purpose of memory..................................................................................................................................................................................................... 79 Next..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 81 Prev 7.1. Welcome to BIOS and CMOS......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 82 7.1.1. Introduction to this Unit........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 82 Welcome 7.2. BIOS and CMOS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 83 7.2.1. KT0701 BIOS: Basic Input-Output System that runs a computer........................................................................................................................................... 84 7.2.2. KT0702 Upgrade BIOS.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 86 7.2.3. KT0703 Potential issues......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 87 Unit Name 1 7.2.4. KT0704 CMOS: Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor............................................................................................................................................. 90 7.2.5. KT0705 CMOS setup, settings, and access........................................................................................................................................................................... 91..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 92 8.1. Welcome to Hard drives and storage devices................................................................................................................................................................................ 93 Unit Name 2 8.1.1. Introduction to this Unit........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 93 8.2. Hard drives and storage devices.................................................................................................................................................................................................... 94 8.2.1. KT0801 Hard drives and storage devices.............................................................................................................................................................................. 95 8.2.2. KT0802 Installing discs, formatting discs, partitioning discs, troubleshooting disks, as well as IDE, SCSI, and SATA................................................................ 96 8.2.3. KT0803 Parts of a hard disk, such as platters, tracks, sectors, clusters, and cylinders........................................................................................................... 98 Unit Name 3 8.2.4. KT0804 Installing IDE devices.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 100................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 101 9.1. Welcome to Power Supplies and Voltage.................................................................................................................................................................................... 102 9.1.1. Introduction to this Unit...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 102 Unit Name 4 9.2. Power Supplies and Voltage........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 103 9.2.1. KT0901 Power supply units, uninterruptible power supplies............................................................................................................................................... 104 9.2.2. KT0902 Identifying power supplies......................................................................................................................................................................................... 107 9.2.3. KT0903 Amps, ohms, volts, and watts................................................................................................................................................................................ 109 9.2.4. KT0904 Affecting system hardware and components........................................................................................................................................................ 111 Unit Name 5................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 113 10.1. Welcome to Ports, Cables, Connectors.................................................................................................................................................................................... 114 10.1.1. Introduction to this Unit...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 114 Next  10.2. Ports, Cables, Connectors........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 115 Prev 10.2.1. KT1001 Ports, cables, and connectors................................................................................................................................................................................. 116 10.2.2. KT1002 Power supply units, uninterruptible power supplies, and identifying power supplies................................................................................................ 118 Welcome 10.2.3. KT1003 Conversion of voltage, overcurrent protection, input supply voltage, DC voltage regulation, input under-voltage, and Energy Star designation120................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 125 11.1. Welcome to Networking and network operating systems........................................................................................................................................................ 126 11.1.1. Introduction to this Unit...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 126 Unit Name 1 11.2. Networking and network operating systems............................................................................................................................................................................ 127 11.2.1. KT1101 Connect to a LAN using Wi-Fi................................................................................................................................................................................. 128 11.2.2. KT1102 Connect to a Lan using Lan Cable.............................................................................................................................................................................. 129 11.2.3. KT1103 Checking Network Card for Connectivity................................................................................................................................................................ 130 Unit Name 2 11.2.4. KT1104 Connecting to WAN/Internet via Dongle................................................................................................................................................................ 131 11.2.5. KT1105 Connect to WAN/Internet via Hotspot.................................................................................................................................................................... 132 11.2.6. KT1106 Sharing a Network Connection............................................................................................................................................................................... 133 11.2.7. KT1107 Sharing a Folder across a network.......................................................................................................................................................................... 135 11.2.8. KT1108 Client/Server Environment...................................................................................................................................................................................... 136 Unit Name 3 11.2.9. KT1109 Domain vs Computer Authentication...................................................................................................................................................................... 138 11.2.10. KT1110 Single Sign-On......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 142 11.2.11. KT1111 Network File Shares.................................................................................................................................................................................................. 144 11.2.12. KT1112 LAN vs WAN vs Cloud............................................................................................................................................................................................. 146 Unit Name 4 11.2.13. KT1113 Securing your identity.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 148................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 150 12.1. Welcome to Networking and wireless connections.................................................................................................................................................................. 151 12.1.1. Introduction to this Unit...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 151 Unit Name 5 12.2. Networking and wireless connections...................................................................................................................................................................................... 152 12.2.1. KT1201 Peer-to-peer networks and server networks........................................................................................................................................................... 153 12.2.2. KT1202 Common functionality of server networks.................................................................................................................................................................. 155 Next  Prev 12.2.3. KT1203 Networking devices including network interface cards, repeaters, bridges, routers, gateways, hubs, and switches.............................................. 157 Welcome Unit Name 1 Unit Name 2 Unit Name 3 Unit Name 4 Unit Name 5 Next  Prev Welcome Welcome Welcome Welcome to an exciting journey of discovery and learning at the Academic Institute of Excellence (AIE). AIE is a revolutionised family of brands, people, and students, offering a curriculum modelled on workplace scenarios to provide you with a practical understanding of how to apply your skills in the real world. Unit Name 1 At AIE, we aim to provide innovative, quality education, coupled with excellent service delivery and a modern outlook on learning technology. We take pride in developing and supporting students through innovative programs that create well-rounded, employable, and professionally developed individuals. Our learning paths are meticulously designed based on global skill demands and the needs of modern students. Our facilitators are qualified subject matter experts with practical industry experience and tertiary education expertise. Conveniently located in Greenside, Midrand (Johannesburg), and De Waterkant (Cape Town), our campuses offer a range of recreational possibilities and ample Unit Name 2 workspace, including computer studios, libraries, and a fully operational Makers Lab. You'll have access to lecturers, resources, and the latest software to help you fulfill your course requirements. At AIE, we are committed to delivering demand-driven education built upon the principles of quality education, innovation, and technology. Each of our programs is benchmarked against local and international standards to ensure you receive the highest level of quality education. Unit Name 3 Join us as we strive towards excellence and empower future generations to become problem solvers, critical thinkers, and innovators—the leaders of tomorrow. Our VISION 1. 2. To deliver demand-driven education, built upon the Unit Name 4 HOW TO principle of quality education through innovation and technology. insert the subtitle Text Boxes Unit Name 5 HOW TO The AIE (Academic Institute of Excellence) has been granted The AIE (Academic Institute of Excellence) has been granted provisional registration as private higher education institution of Section 54(3) of the Act and Regulation 14(4)(b)(i) of the insert the provisional registration as a private college in terms of Section 31(3) of the CET Act and Regulation 12(4), with registration Department of Higher Education and Training until 31 December 2025. Registration Certificate No 2022/HE07/005. subtitle Text number SDP240324201250, SDP240324190422 SDP240324200859, for a period of three years. and Next Boxes  Prev Study Guide – Computers and Computing Systems Computers and Computing Systems CCSY Welcome Module Purpose The aim of this module is to equip you with an in-depth understanding of the operational aspects of computers and computing systems, including the hardware components that drive computer functionality, software that operates these machines, and the networks that connect them. By covering everything from basic Unit Name 1 problem-solving skills for IT professionals to the intricacies of cloud computing and security fundamentals, this module lays the groundwork for proficient IT practice. 3. Specific Outcome 4. Assessment Criteria 21. KM-01-KT09: Power supplies and22. Power supply and the effect on 5. KM-01-KT01: Problem solving skills6. Problem-solving steps and the voltage system hardware and components Unit Name 2 for IT Professionals application thereof are explained are explained 7. KM-01-KT02: Techniques for safety8. Describe the osha electrical safety 23. KM-01-KT10: Ports, cables, and24.An understanding of ports, cables, standard 1926.431 connectors and connectors and the effect of voltage are demonstrated 9. KM-01-KT03: System components 10. Various types of system components are identified and 25. KM-01-KT11: Networking and26. An Understanding of Wi-Fi USB network operating systems Dongles Unit Name 3 described 11. KM-01-KT04: Motherboards 12. Understanding of motherboards, 27. KM-01-KT12: Networking and28. Networking and wireless primary components and related wireless connections connections are discussed with aspects is demonstrated reference to types and functionality 13. KM-01-KT05: Processors 14. Understanding of processers and 29. KM-01-KT13: Input and output30. Input and output devices are related aspects is demonstrated devices identified and the respective Unit Name 4 functions are explained 15. KM-01-KT06: Memory 16. Purpose of memory and how it relates to computer components is 31. KM-01-KT14: Installing and32. An understanding of types of described managing printers printers, installing printers and dealing with problems is 17. KM-01-KT07: BIOS and CMOS 18. Understanding of BIOS and CMOS demonstrated operations is demonstrated 33. KM-01-KT15: Mobile devices,34.Troubleshooting procedures are 19. KM-01-KT08:Hard drives and20. An understanding of hard drives Unit Name 5 multimedia, and laptop computers explained storage devices and storage devices and components is demonstrated 35. KM-01-KT16: Preventative36. The importance of preventative maintenance maintenance is justified Next  Prev 37. KM-01-KT17: Troubleshooting38. Troubleshooting procedures are procedures explained 39. KM-01-KT18: Operating systems 40.Describe the big three operating COMPUTER Requirements systems: Windows, Linux, and Mac Welcome It is advisable that students make use of their own personal 41. KM-01-KT19: Managing files 42.Types of files and the respective computers to complete this module. purposes are identified 43.KM-01-KT20: Applications utility,44.Describe the Optimisation troubleshooting, and optimization 45.KM-01-KT21: Configuring device46.Explain the considerations for READ – SAQA Qualification Detail Unit Name 1 drivers configuring device drivers are This module forms part of the Software Developer Occupational reasoned Certificate (SAQA code: 118707, NQF 5). Follow the link below view 47. KM-01-KT22: Recovery 48.Describe what is a recovery the full details of the qualification. partition? Read: Cybersecurity Analyst SAQA Qualification 49.KM-01-KT23: Cloud computing 50. Cloud computing functionality, benefits and risks are identified and Link to SAQA document: Click_here Unit Name 2 described 51. KM-01-KT24: Security52. Typical security risks are listed fundamentals 53. KM-01-KT25: Programming and54.Various software developments are development listed Unit Name 3 PRESCRIBED Material Easily find your prescribed textbook, videos, and other course materials by exploring the convenient student portal. Unit Name 4 Study: The AIE Computers and Computing Systems Study guide Study: Modern Computer Architecture and Organization Link to PERLEGO book: Click_here Unit Name 5 Next  Prev Problem solving skills for IT Professionals Welcome Unit 1 Unit Unit 1Name Name1 56. 57. The following topics are covered in this unit: 60. 58. 61. earning Outcomes  Identification of the problem 62. At the end of this unit the student should be able to ……. Unit Name 2 nit Overview  Establishing a probable cause 63.  Testing to determine the cause  Have a solid understanding of the components and functions of  Establishing a plan to resolve the problem computing systems.  Implementing your solution  Be familiar with the principles of networking and the importance  Verifying functionality of secure connections. Know how to perform basic maintenance and troubleshoot Unit Name 3   Implementing preventative measures common issues in computing systems.  Documenting results  Be aware of the latest trends in IT, including cloud computing 59. and security measures. 55. Unit Name 4 Unit Name 5 Next  Prev Unit 1 – Problem solving skills for IT Professionals 1.1. Welcome to Problem solving skills for IT Professionals Welcome Welcome in this unit, you will explore key concepts and practical applications. Unit Name 1 To make the most of your learning experience, follow these instructions:  Review: Start by reading through the provided materials for this unit. Pay attention to the key ideas and concepts presented.  Study your prescribed material Unit Name 2  Follow the Study Material References: Utilise the references to the prescribed book(s) to delve deeper into the subject matter. These study materials will enhance your understanding and provide insights. Feel free to engage in discussions, ask questions, and collaborate with your Unit Name 3 peers on the StudentHub to deepen your understanding of this unit. Enjoy your learning journey! 1.1.1. Introduction to this Unit Unit Name 4 The aim of this module is to equip you with an in-depth understanding of the operational aspects of computers and computing systems, including the hardware components that drive computer functionality, software that operates these machines, and the networks that connect them. By covering everything from basic problem-solving skills for IT professionals to the intricacies of cloud Unit Name 5 computing and security fundamentals, this module lays the groundwork for proficient IT practice. Next  Prev Unit 1 – Problem solving skills for IT Professionals 1.2. KT0101 - Identification of the problem Welcome The aim of this module is to equip you with an in-depth understanding of STUDY Material the operational aspects of computers and computing systems, including the Refer to your prescribed textbook on Perlego (Modern Computer hardware components that drive computer functionality, software that Architecture and Organization by Packt Publishing) via the link operates these machines, and the networks that connect them. By covering Unit Name 1 provided on your student portal. everything from basic problem-solving skills for IT professionals to the intricacies of cloud computing and security fundamentals, this module lays Read: https://shorturl.at/cAlSL the groundwork for proficient IT practice. What You Will Learn: Unit Name 2 During this module, your learning journey will delve into: 1. The Four Major Parts of Computers: Understand the roles of input, output, the CPU, and memory in computing systems. 2. Networks and Connectivity: Gain insights into how computers connect and communicate within networks, including wireless connections. 3. Security Issues in IT Ecosystems: Explore security fundamentals crucial for Unit Name 3 protecting information and computing resources. 4. Core System Components: Learn about motherboards, processors, BIOS/CMOS, storage devices, and more, which are pivotal in computer operations. 5. Peripheral Devices and Their Management: Discover the importance of Unit Name 4 input/output devices, managing printers, and the role of ports, cables, and connectors. 6. Software and Operating Systems: Delve into operating systems, application utilities, troubleshooting, and optimization techniques. 7. Maintenance and Troubleshooting: Understand preventative maintenance and troubleshooting procedures to keep computing systems Unit Name 5 running efficiently. 8. Emerging Technologies: Explore the realms of cloud computing and programming developments, preparing you for the future of IT. Next  Prev Unit 1 – Problem solving skills for IT Professionals 1.2.1. CHALLENGES FACING IT PROFESSIONALS Both IT staff and decision-makers are overwhelmed with work demands. It’s Welcome sort of a chicken and egg scenario—decision-makers are using increasing workloads as an excuse not to authorize training, and staff are struggling to complete assignments because they lack the proper skills. Either way, time that was previously designated toward skills development is now being used to catch up on an increasing backlog of work. Unit Name 1 Workload concerns are the highest they’ve been in the history of our IT Skills and Salary Report. It’s the number one training inhibitor, as IT professionals believe mounting workloads limit the amount of time they can spend out of office or in a training course. Better manager oversight and strategy is required to address this issue. Automation may also be a solution as a means to reduce time-consuming Unit Name 2 tasks that are not high priority. 2. CYBERSECURITY 1. Workload The cybersecurity challenge is two-fold: 2. Cybersecurity 1. Cyberattacks are growing in size and sophistication Unit Name 3 3. Skills gaps 2. Millions of cybersecurity jobs remain unfilled 4. Digital transformation 5. Cloud computing Organizations cannot take IT security lightly. An analysis of worldwide 6. Hiring identity and access management by the International Data Corporation 7. Budget (IDC) revealed that 55% of consumers would switch platforms or providers Unit Name 4 due to the threat of a data breach, and 78% would switch if a breach 8. Leadership support impacted them directly.1 Customers aren’t willing to put their data at risk. 9. Analytics and data management The problem is there aren’t enough IT professionals with cybersecurity 10. Automation expertise. Forty percent of IT decision-makers say they have cybersecurity 11. Project management skills gaps on their teams. It’s also identified as the most challenging hiring 12. Career growth area in IT. Unit Name 5 There isn’t an immediate solution to this problem, but a long-term fix is to build your cyber workforce from the inside. Invest in cybersecurity training 1. WORKLOAD and upskill your current staff. Hiring and outsourcing isn’t always a viable Next  Prev (or cheap) solution. Current IT professionals who know the industry are IT professionals and departments are falling behind—they are failing to more apt to transition into successful cybersecurity professionals. meet business objectives and seize market opportunities. While continual training is part of the equation, prioritizing skill needs is even more of a priority. That’s why we created the Skills Development Index™ to help IT Welcome 3. SKILLS GAPS professionals rank their most critical skill needs and determine which type Over 80% of North American IT departments have skills gaps. Globally, IT of training to pursue. Informal training has its merits, especially when on- skills gaps have increased by 155% in three years. They can no longer be the-fly knowledge must be acquired, but when a high-value project is on ignored, especially as a lack of necessary skills can be credited for increased the line, more formal learning is the better option. employee stress, development and deployment delays, and increased operating costs. Unit Name 1 5. CLOUD COMPUTING Cloud is the top investment area worldwide for IT departments. According to IT decision-makers, skills gaps will cost employers up to 416 Organizations require an infusion of cloud skills to match their monetary hours and over R22,000 per employee, per year. You would think those investment in cloud platforms. Much like cybersecurity, cloud professionals numbers would motivate organizations to increase skill development are in high demand and short supply. According to IT decision-makers, opportunities for employees, but that isn’t always the case. Less than 60% cloud computing is the second most challenging hiring area in the world. Unit Name 2 of decision-makers say their organizations offer formal training for technical employees, down one percent from the previous year. This tells us that The opportunities of cloud computing are impossible to ignore. Cloud is organizations aren’t serious enough about skill development. the ultimate enabler, opening new channels of revenue by leveraging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT). The time to act is now—skills gaps will only grow and further debilitate IT But professionals are needed to capitalize on this technology, and currently, departments unless actions are taken. Strategic and continual training is the there aren’t enough of them. antidote. That’s the good news. The uphill battle is conveying the value to Unit Name 3 management and securing budget to ensure employees receive continual training. IT professionals need better support. If organizations do not invest Despite the worker shortage, organizations are all-in on cloud solutions. In in their employees’ skills now, they will pay for it down the road. fact, more than 50% of organizations use more than one cloud provider.2 It’s not unique for an organization to require cloud skills in AWS, Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud. And generic cloud computing expertise 4. DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION isn’t enough, especially if you’re an engineer or architect. It’s imperative that Unit Name 4 Digital transformation is latest disrupter. It has led to technology no longer cloud professionals have current skill sets and train on the platforms they providing a sustained competitive advantage. It now plays a supporting role engage with regularly. to people with the right skills. Expertise is needed now more than ever to manage and implement all of the new technologies. 6. HIRING Talent recruitment and retention is a major challenge for IT leaders—50% But it’s not that simple. As discussed above, IT departments are suffering are currently struggling in the area. Only seven percent of IT decision- Unit Name 5 from gaps in critical skills areas such as cybersecurity, cloud computing and makers say that hiring has been easy. DevOps. Even IT professionals who are offered professional development opportunities are struggling to keep up. The rate of technological change is outpacing training. Next  Prev Managers hoping to hire their way out of a skills gap problem have been Nearly 20% of IT professionals say management does not see a tangible dealt a dose of reality, as key positions like cloud computing and benefit from training. That’s a huge disconnect, especially since IT pros have cybersecurity are the most difficult to fill. a strong desire to learn and grow their careers. It’s difficult to accomplish that without support from leadership. Welcome One potential solution to this quandary is degree deflation, which is a conscientious effort to focus on skills rather than a college degree during Often, IT management, fairly or unfairly, is blamed for poor employee the hiring process. A bachelor’s degree is not necessarily an indicator of morale and unclear job roles and responsibilities. Communication is one of abilities, especially in tech. Recent training and certifications better illustrate the biggest gripes—IT professionals believe leadership isn’t always what a professional is capable of right now. transparent, especially when it comes to decisions about resources and Unit Name 1 budgets. 7. BUDGET A lack of budget and resources is another major concern for both IT staff And IT professionals will not wait out a poor work situation. Ninety-one and decision-makers. The open-field sections of our IT Skills and Salary percent of unsatisfied employees are likely to pursue alternative Survey are littered with criticisms about budget constraints. IT professionals employment. Many respondents in our IT Skills and Salary report changed employers in the last year and sited of poor culture or toxic management Unit Name 2 want to train but their requests aren’t always approved by management. as primary reasons. Budget is often the major roadblock impeding professional development and hiring. IT departments need to ensure they are communicating the 9. ANALYTICS AND DATA MANAGEMENT right messages to organizational leadership to help them understand the Aside from cybersecurity and cloud computing, this is the biggest skill gap value of ongoing training. Here’s a place to start: revenue growth, low area for IT departments. Organizations are struggling to manage a wealth Unit Name 3 employee turnover and new product development are signs of a skilled of new data. By 2025, IDC estimates the world will create and replicate 163 workforce. zettabytes (ZB) of data, 10 times the number that was created in 2016.3 New data is constantly accumulating, creating a host of storage and security risks that must be addressed. IT professionals are desperately needed to manage There are a number of ways to maximize a constrained budget. this data growth, but the problem has exacerbated because qualified Prepayments and special offers are options to save on training. Lock in a individuals are difficult to come by. Unit Name 4 discounted rate for a full year, or save a certain percentage on individual courses. Also, make sure you are aware of any training credits your company may have. They are typically issued by tech providers as a way to It’s not enough to accumulate this data. Organizations need analysts and help drive value for a particular investment. Global Knowledge accepts critical thinkers to create a culture of information, enabling data-driven training credits and vouchers as payment for courses. Know your balance decisions to inform almost all business activities. and know when they expire. Unit Name 5 The good news is most cloud platforms, such as AWS and GCP, allow you 8. LEADERSHIP SUPPORT IN PRIORITIZING NEW SKILLS DEVELOPMENT to capture, process, store and analyse data all in one place. The key now is to upskill and certify professionals on the technologies and services Some IT decision-makers do not authorize training even when it’s built into associated with these platforms. their budget—41% had formal training available but decided to forgo it. Next  Prev 10. AUTOMATION expectations. IDC believes that by 2020, 90% of all organizations will have Since workload is the biggest challenge for IT professionals, finding ways to adjusted project plans, delayed product/service releases, incurred costs or automate more mundane and time-consuming tasks such as email sends lost revenue because of a lack of IT skills, with losses worldwide totalling 390 and social media posting is crucial. billion annually. A successful project manager keeps their focus on the big Welcome picture even as disrupters, such as skills gaps, create risks for the business. But companies are now looking to automate larger and more business- critical tasks, such as cyberattack response, log monitoring and ERP PMI®’s Project Management Professional (PMP®) certification is an integration. essential certification for project managers. PMP provides a verified level of assurance that a project manager has the experience and skills to effectively Unit Name 1 define, plan and deliver their projects. If you’re a prospective project or Automation’s role in cybersecurity is certainly growing. It’s a tool that should program manager, the PMP certification should be in your immediate plans. be used to predict cyber threats and implement responses more quickly than can be accomplished manually. 12. CAREER GROWTH Share this: Two-thirds of IT professionals who changed employers last year Hackers are using automation to execute their attacks, so it’s time to bring Unit Name 2 did so in pursuit of better growth and development opportunities. In fact, the fight back to them. Automation allows attackers to move quickly, so growth outweighs a higher salary in terms of the top factor for changing organizations demand a faster detection and response time. employers. Automation is also useful in cloud migration. For organizations moving to As IT decision-makers struggle to fill open positions, it’s important that they the cloud, many of the migration tasks, such as manual configuration, can invest in the areas their employees deem valuable. If growth opportunities Unit Name 3 be automated, which reduces migration time from days to minutes. are not available, IT professionals have proven that they will not sit idly by. More than half of the professionals we surveyed said they expected to at 11. PROJECT MANAGEMENT least casually look for new jobs in 2020. Companies with certified project managers are more likely to have projects that are completed on time and within budget. It takes experience and strategic thinking to align projects with departmental and organizational STUDY Material Unit Name 4 goals. A strong project manager keeps projects on track so deadlines are met, resources are available and leadership is in the loop. Without someone Refer to your prescribed textbook on Perlego (Modern Computer to steer the ship, projects lack direction and risk increases. A business that Architecture and Organization by Packt Publishing) via the link fails to recognize these risks probably doesn’t value project management provided on your student portal. highly. Read: https://shorturl.at/cAlSL Unit Name 5 Rising skills gaps have made the jobs of project managers even more difficult, as critical expertise is lacking. It’s the project manager’s job to communicate skills needs with management and help guide realistic Next  Prev Unit 1 – Problem solving skills for IT Professionals 1.2.2. KT0102 Establishing a probable cause Welcome STUDY Material Establish a Theory of Probable Cause Refer to your prescribed textbook on Perlego (Modern Computer Architecture and Organization by Packt Publishing) via the link Such as theory and probable indicate a guess on your part, even if it is a guess backed by data. The way this step is written acknowledges that the provided on your student portal. Unit Name 1 root cause (step one) may not have been accurately identified. However, Read: https://shorturl.at/cAlSL the cause is specific enough to begin troubleshooting. This stage may require significant research on your part. Vendor documentation, your organization’s own documentation and a good old- fashioned Google search may all be required to provide the basis for your theory. Unit Name 2 Specific steps here may include:  Questioning the obvious  Considering multiple approaches, including top-to-bottom or bottom-to-top for layered technologies (such as networks) Unit Name 3 One of the main issues that I’ve observed with newer trouble shooters is failing to question the obvious. In my classes, I rephrase this as “start simple and work toward the complex.” Yes, I am aware that operating systems, networks and cloud deployments are all very complex. However, that does not mean that your issue is complex. Unit Name 4 I have found over the years that careful note-taking is important at this point. Your notes can include data copied from websites, web URLs, suggestions from your team members, etc. Unit Name 5 Next  Prev Unit 1 – Problem solving skills for IT Professionals Welcome 1.2.3. KT0103 Testing to determine the cause 2. Test Environment Duplication When testing a software product, most teams limit efforts to a handful of test cases. This, however, is not a true representation of the challenges the The pressure to bring high-quality products into the market means the product might face in a real-world environment. Not using a realistic test product must undergo several rounds of testing to ensure issues are environment means testers will only find issues that are reflected under very identified and rectified in time. But the process of developing test cases and specific circumstances – thus reducing the chance of discovering real-world Unit Name 1 carrying out manual or automated testing is not as easy as it appears; or hard to find bugs. testers often come across many challenges along the testing lifecycle that makes the entire process rather taxing. Here are key challenges developers face when it comes to software testing: Using a real-life environment is important to test the product across all possible parameters. It ensures the product is tested across all possible configuration combinations and that any issue that could potentially impact Unit Name 2 1. Undefined Quality Standards end user experience is identified and rectified in time. A test environment Software products tend to comply with quality requirements when the that is as production-like as possible also reduces the likelihood of standards are clearly defined. Unfortunately, perfectly defined quality introducing a new feature that is not compatible with the production standards are not always the case which makes testing a real challenge. environment. Undefined or poorly defined quality standards means there is no clarity on testing requirements, specifications, guidelines, or characteristics. In the 3. Lack of Communication Unit Name 3 absence of the right standards, it becomes extremely difficult for testers to satisfy customer needs, b) meet quality requirements, and c) comply with Testers often tend to work in complete isolation, and very rarely indulge in regulations. communicating with other team members. Such communication often leads to testers spending more in back-and-forth emails, attending meetings, taking phone calls, and providing status updates. It also impacts Before embarking on the testing journey, it is thus critical for teams to define shared understanding across the entire team and leads to poor insight into these quality standards upfront as they help in developing expectations risks and issues that can act as impediments to the project. Unit Name 4 around the quality of the product under development. They not only make the testing process more efficient; they also help reduce redundancy, minimize errors, reduce time to market, as well as lower costs. Make sure Open and constant communication is the foundation of great software the standards you define are realistic, reliable, and measurable. Rope in the testing. Make sure to invest in modern collaboration tools that help teams required people to define standards and ensure they are clearly stay in touch with one another and stay updated with project updates. communicated to the team. Ensuring great communication across the team and associated stakeholders Unit Name 5 means testers have access to all the information they need to start testing quickly and efficiently. It also helps in communicating potential bugs in issues and implement all the improvements needed to build a winning product. Next  Prev 4. Unstable Environment environment duplication, lack of communication, unstable environment, Another major challenge with respect to software testing is the presence of and insufficient requirements gathering. To make testing a streamlined and unstable test environments. Unstable environments tend to potentially challenge-free process, it is vital for teams to engage with partners who can disrupt the overall release process. Since they are poorly managed, they put practices in place that help in overcoming challenges and meeting Welcome result in conflicts and schedule delays; in the long run, they can impact required quality and cost requirements with ease. quality, availability and efficiency of test environments while affecting time- to-market deadlines and costs. STUDY Material To overcome issues with unstable environments, you need to get into the Unit Name 1 practice of formalizing test environment requirements early in the testing Refer to your prescribed textbook on Perlego (Textbook title, lifecycle. Using a formal template can help capture requirements in time, author initials and surname) via the link provided on your student allocate suitable resources with matching skill sets, and build new portal. environments by procuring the required infrastructure. Read: Chapter 1 - How to set-up a business account on Instagram (pg. 11-15) Unit Name 2 5. Insufficient Requirements Gathering Testers also often find themselves challenged by user requirements which tends to wreck the testing process. Inadequate or insufficient requirements analysis has several consequences on the quality of the software under development: it can lead to inadequate functionality or even new requirements being discovered late in the development lifecycle. Too many Unit Name 3 missed requirements exert immense pressure on project schedules and compel testers to skip test cases to save time. Since requirements gathering can play a big role in ensuring business and customer expectations are met, it is important to invest time for gathering requirements. Proper gathering ensures teams know what features the Unit Name 4 product is supposed to offer, the level of functionality expected as well as in unearthing the right defects and issues. In the software development lifecycle, testing plays an equally important role as development – if not more. But given how complex today’s products Unit Name 5 have become, testers often find themselves struggling with a melee of testing challenges: right from undefined quality standards to test Next  Prev Unit 1 – Problem solving skills for IT Professionals Welcome 1.2.4. KT0104 Establishing a plan to resolve the p