UoZ ICT Course PDF

UoZ ICT Course Prepared in Collaboration by the Department of Computer Science and the UoZ / Statistics and ICT Center Version 2.1 October 2024  Table of Contents Table...

UoZ ICT Course Prepared in Collaboration by the Department of Computer Science and the UoZ / Statistics and ICT Center Version 2.1 October 2024  Table of Contents Table of Contents....................................................................................................................... 1 List of Figures............................................................................................................................ 2 1. COMPUTER ESSENTIALS.............................................................................................. 3 1.1. ICT and types of ICT Services.................................................................................... 3 1.2. Definition of Computer................................................................................................ 3 1.3. Hardware vs. Software................................................................................................ 4 1.3.1. Hardware......................................................................................................................... 4 1.3.2. Software......................................................................................................................... 10 2. COMPUTER PARTS....................................................................................................... 12 2.1. Main Parts of a Personal Computer......................................................................... 12 2.2. Computer Peripherals............................................................................................... 16 3. NETWORKS..................................................................................................................... 28 3.1. Types of Networks...................................................................................................... 28 3.1.1. Local Area Network.................................................................................................... 28 3.1.2. Personal Area Network.............................................................................................. 29 3.1.3. Metropolitan Area Network...................................................................................... 30 3.1.4. Wide Area Network.................................................................................................... 30 3.2. Mobile Network Operator (MNO)........................................................................... 33 4. ONLINE AND WEB ESSENTIALS............................................................................... 35 4.1. Internet Basics............................................................................................................ 35 4.1.1. What is the Internet?.................................................................................................. 35 4.1.2. What is the World Wide Web (www)?................................................................... 36 4.1.3. Types of Internet Connection................................................................................... 36 4.1.4. Data Transfer............................................................................................................... 39 4.1.5. How does the Internet work?.................................................................................... 40 4.1.6. Other things you can do on the Internet................................................................ 40 4.2. Web Browsers............................................................................................................. 41 4.2.1. Navigating websites..................................................................................................... 41 4.2.2. Google Chrome............................................................................................................. 42 PRACTICAL PART.............................................................................................................. 46 1  List of Figures Figure 1.1: Computer hardware................................................................................................ 4 Figure 1.2: Main computer hardware parts............................................................................... 5 Figure 1.3: The most popular types of computers.................................................................... 6 Figure 1.4: Desktop computer.................................................................................................. 6 Figure 1.5: Laptop computer.................................................................................................... 7 Figure 1.6: Tablet computer...................................................................................................... 7 Figure 1.7: Server computer..................................................................................................... 8 Figure 1.8: Super computer...................................................................................................... 8 Figure 1.9: Mainframe computer.............................................................................................. 9 Figure 1.10: Other types of mini computers........................................................................... 10 Figure 1.11: Computer software types.................................................................................... 10 Figure 2.1: Computer case...................................................................................................... 12 Figure 2.2: Motherboard......................................................................................................... 13 Figure 2.3: CPU on motherboard............................................................................................ 14 Figure 2.4: RAM..................................................................................................................... 14 Figure 2.5: Storage Devices.................................................................................................... 15 Figure 2.6: Graphics Processing Unit..................................................................................... 15 Figure 2.7: Power Supply....................................................................................................... 16 Figure 2.8: Keyboard.............................................................................................................. 16 Figure 2.9: Types of computer mice....................................................................................... 17 Figure 2.10: Monitor / Screen................................................................................................. 17 Figure 2.11: Printer................................................................................................................. 18 Figure 2.12: Optical Drive...................................................................................................... 18 Figure 2.13: Input/Output Ports.............................................................................................. 19 Figure 2.14: Network Interface Card...................................................................................... 19 Figure 2.15: Network Interface Card...................................................................................... 20 Figure 2.16: Computer with two speakers.............................................................................. 20 Figure 2.17: Sound card.......................................................................................................... 21 Figure 2.18: Sound card.......................................................................................................... 21 Figure 2.19: External Wi-Fi.................................................................................................... 22 Figure 2.20: ROM on the Motherboard.................................................................................. 22 Figure 2.21: Hard disk............................................................................................................ 23 Figure 2.22: PC vs MAC........................................................................................................ 26 2 Figure 2.23: Personal Computer............................................................................................. 26 Figure 2.24: Apple MAC computer........................................................................................ 27 Figure 3.1: Computer networking simulation sample............................................................ 28 Figure 3.2: Local area network............................................................................................... 29 Figure 3.3: Personal area network.......................................................................................... 29 Figure 3.4: Metropolitan area network................................................................................... 30 Figure 3.5: Wide area network............................................................................................... 31 Figure 3.6: Network interface card......................................................................................... 32 Figure 3.7: Computer firewall................................................................................................ 32 Figure 3.8: Mobile networking............................................................................................... 33 Figure 3.9: Providing mobile networks.................................................................................. 34 Figure 3.10: Client / server networks...................................................................................... 34 Figure 4.1: Internet sharing..................................................................................................... 35 Figure 4.2: Educational website (UOZ).................................................................................. 36 Figure 4.3: DSL principle....................................................................................................... 37 Figure 4.4: Cable medium...................................................................................................... 37 Figure 4.5: Internet using satellite.......................................................................................... 38 Figure 4.6: Wireless connection............................................................................................. 38 Figure 4.7: Cellular technology.............................................................................................. 39 Figure 4.8: Data Transfer (upload and download).................................................................. 39 Figure 4.9: Communication using internet............................................................................. 40 Figure 4.10: Common web browsers...................................................................................... 41 Figure 4.11: Browsing a website............................................................................................ 42 Figure 4.12: Security alarm from google chrome browser..................................................... 43 Figure 4.13: Chrome customization........................................................................................ 43 Figure 4.14: Chrome translation tool...................................................................................... 44 3 1. COMPUTER ESSENTIALS This module introduces us to the world of computers, ICT, and software, helping to start a journey into using computers and digital devices for work and leisure. Almost every industry in the world utilizes computers and digital devices in some way, and having the core skills to complete common technology tasks is essential for workers. 1.1. ICT and types of ICT Services Terms such as IT or ICT are commonly used in relation to the application of technology in the modern world. "ICT" stands for Information and Communication Technology. This is a general term for describing the use of digital technology to access, store, and process information into an organized and understandable form. ICT has changed people's lives as it allows people to better explore ideas, manage information, find answers to questions, solve problems, and become more productive. Different types of ICT services and their uses include: Internet services: Online banking, online shopping, e-mail, and sharing documentation are all facilitated by Internet technology. Mobile technology: Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets support Internet access in a range of environments. Office productivity applications: Software applications such as word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, databases, e-mail systems. 1.2. Definition of Computer A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you can use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. A computer has two main parts: hardware and software. The hardware is responsible for executing tasks, and the software provides the hardware with directions for what tasks to perform - and how to perform them. 3  Computer hardware, firmware, peripherals, and software work together to input, process, store, and output data. 1.3. Hardware vs. Software Before we talk about different types of computers, let's talk about two things all computers have in common: hardware and software. 1.3.1. Hardware Hardware is a generic term for any part of the computer that you can physically touch, pick up, hold, move around the room etc. In other words, hardware are the physical parts that make up the computer, you can see in the figure 1.1. Figure 1.1: Computer hardware. Examples of external hardware (not inside the computer): Monitor - so you can see what you are working on. Printer - so you can get a paper copy of your work. Keyboard - so you can type text, numbers and symbols into your work. Mouse - so you can point, click and select things on your screen. Microphone - so you can input voice or sound recordings. 4 Examples of internal hardware (inside the computer): Motherboard - the main printed circuit board in the computer with sockets to connect the other parts. CPU (Central Processing Unit) - the 'brains' of the computer. RAM - Volatile storage in a computer that holds data while the machine is running. Hard disk - to store all of your applications and files. Fan - to keep the CPU cool and stop it overheating. Sound card - used to generate and capture sounds. Main parts of Computers and Devices Hardware are the physical parts or components of a computer or device, such as the mouse, monitor, keyboard, system unit and speakers. They are physical, tangible objects, see figure 1.2. Figure 1.2: Main computer hardware parts. Two of the most popular types of personal computing devices are the desktop computer and the laptop computer. Of course, one of the most popular ICT devices in the world today is the mobile phone. What are the different types of computers? When most people hear the word computer, they think of a personal computer such as a desktop or laptop. However, computers come in many shapes and sizes, and they perform many different functions in our daily lives. When you 5 withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or use a calculator, you're using a type of computer, figure 1.3 shows those most popular types of computers: Figure 1.3: The most popular types of computers. Desktop computers Many people use desktop computers at work, home, and school as shown in figure 1.4. Desktop computers are designed to be placed on a desk, and they're typically made up of a few different parts, including the computer case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. Figure 1.4: Desktop computer. Laptop computers The second type of computer you may be familiar with is a laptop computer (as shown in figure 1.5) commonly called a laptop. Laptops are battery-powered 6 computers that are more portable than desktops, allowing you to use them almost anywhere. Figure 1.5: Laptop computer. Tablets Tablet computers - or tablets - are handheld computers that are even more portable than laptops as shown in figure 1.6. Instead of a keyboard and mouse, tablets use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation. The iPad is an example of a tablet. Figure 1.6: Tablet computer. 7 Servers A server: is a computer that serves up information to other computers on a network (a sample has been shown in figure 1.7). For example, whenever you use the Internet, you're looking at something that's stored on a server. Many businesses also use local file servers to store and share files internally. Figure 1.7: Server computer. Super computer The most powerful computers are super computers. They are large, extremely fast, and expensive computer used for complex calculations. These computers used by large companies like NASA. See figure 1.8. Figure 1.8: Super computer. 8 Mainframe Computer Mainframe computer: A high-level, typically large and expensive. Mainframe computers are characterized by their ability to simultaneously support many users connected to the computer by terminals. See figure 1.9. Figure 1.9: Mainframe computer. Other types of computers Many of today's electronics are basically specialized computers, though we don't always think of them that way. Here are a few common examples. Smartphones: Many cell phones can do a lot of things computers can do, including browsing the Internet and playing games. They are often called smartphones. Wearables: Wearable technology is a general term for a group of devices— including fitness trackers and smartwatches—that are designed to be worn throughout the day. These devices are often called wearables for short. Game consoles: A game console is a specialized type of computer that is used for playing video games on your TV. TVs: Many TVs now include applications—or apps—that let you access various types of online content. For example, you can stream video from the Internet directly onto your TV. 9  Figure 1.10: Other types of mini computers. 1.3.2. Software Software is a program which consists of the step-by-step instructions that tell the computer how do its work. The purpose of software is to convert data to information. Data: raw facts. Information: data that is organized, meaningful, and useful. There are two main types of software: Systems software: These systems, and their related utilities, enable the computer to function. An example of an operating system is Microsoft Windows 7. Application software: This software carries out specific tasks for users. An example of an application is a word processing tool such as Microsoft Word or a web browser such as Google Chrome (as shown in figure 1.11). Figure 1.11: Computer software types. 10  Everything you do on your computer will rely on both hardware and software. For example, right now you may be viewing this lesson in a web browser (software) and using your mouse (hardware) to click from page to page. Operating System The computer’s operating system manages its memory, processes, and all of its software and hardware in personal computers as well as in mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets. The three most common operating systems for personal computers are: Microsoft Windows, Apple OS and Linux. Examples of mobile operating systems are: Apple iOS and Google Android. An application is a type of software that allows you to perform specific tasks. They fall into many different categories: Office productivity: These include word processing and spreadsheet applications, such as those contained in Microsoft Office, iWork, or Open Office application suites. Communications: These include email applications, such as Microsoft Outlook, and messaging / voice applications such as Skype or Viber. Social networking: These include mobile applications and websites that allow users to connect and exchange status updates and comments. Examples of these are Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Media: These include tools that allow media to be viewed or listened to, such as Windows Media Player or iTunes. Design: These include applications for working with images, such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP, or publishing, such as Adobe InDesign. Mobile applications: These include a range of applications that can be used in mobile devices and smartphones. Examples are online storage applications or e-mail. 11 2. COMPUTER PARTS The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord. Each part plays an important role whenever using the computer. Computer Case Firstly, computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power supply. The front of the case usually has an on / off button and one or more optical drives (you can see figure 2.1). Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat on a desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next to the monitor or on the floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal components built into the monitor, which eliminates the need for a separate case. Figure 2.1: Computer case. 2.1. Main Parts of a Personal Computer Microprocessor (Central Processing Unit CPU). Memory (Random Access Memory RAM). Read Only Memory (ROM). System Board (Motherboard). Disk Drivers (CD, DVD, Floppy and Hard Disk Drivers). 12 Motherboard Definition: The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It's a thin plate that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, and connections to your computer's ports (such as USB ports). Example: When you plug in a USB drive, the motherboard routes this information to the CPU, look at figure 2.2. Figure 2.2: Motherboard. Central Processing Unit (CPU) Definition: The central processing unit (CPU), also called a processor, is located inside the computer case on the motherboard. It is sometimes called the brain of the computer, and its job is to carry out commands. Example: When you open a program, the CPU is what processes the necessary operations to make that program run, you can see figure 2.3. 13  Figure 2.3: CPU on motherboard. Memory (RAM) Definition: Volatile storage in a computer that holds data while the machine is running; RAM is cleared when the computer is turned off. Example: Having more RAM allows your computer to run more programs simultaneously without slowing down. See figure 2.4 below: Figure 2.4: RAM. 14 Storage Devices Definition: Devices that store data persistently for long-term access, such as Flash memory, CD, DVD, Floppy Disk, Micro card, HDDs and SSDs. Example: You save your documents and photos on a storage device so you can access them anytime, see figure 2.5. Figure 2.5: Storage Devices. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Definition: A specialized electronic circuit designed to accelerate the creation of images in a frame buffer intended for output to a display. Example: Gamers need powerful GPUs to render high-quality graphics smoothly. Figure 2.6 show types of GPU. Figure 2.6: Graphics Processing Unit. 15  Power Supply Unit (PSU) Definition: Converts mains AC to low-voltage regulated DC power for the internal components of a computer. Example: When you turn on your computer, the PSU supplies power to all components from the motherboard to the hard drives. See figure 2.7. Figure 2.7: Power Supply. 2.2. Computer Peripherals A computer peripheral, technically speaking, is any device that connects to the computing unit but is not part of the core architecture of the computing unit. Keyboard Definition: An input device consisting of a set of individual keys similar to those of a typewriter. Example: You use a keyboard to type your essays or to input commands into the computer. See figure 2.8: Figure 2.8: Keyboard. 16 Mouse Definition: A hand-held pointing device that detects two-dimensional motion relative to a surface. Example: You use a mouse to click on icons, open files, and navigate through your computer’s operating system. See figure 2.9 for more information. Figure 2.9: Types of computer mice. Monitor Definition: An output device that displays information in pictorial form. Example: A monitor shows the visual outputs from your computer, such as the desktop environment or movies you watch. Look at figure 2.10 below: Figure 2.10: Monitor / Screen. Printer Definition: A peripheral device that makes persistent representations of graphics or text on paper. 17  Example: You use a printer to produce hard copies of documents and photos. See figure 2.11 below: Figure 2.11: Printer. Optical Drive Definition: A disc drive that uses laser light as part of the process of reading or writing data to or from optical discs. Example: You might use an optical drive to read DVDs or CDs that contain data or media. Look at figure 2.12. Figure 2.12: Optical Drive. Common Input/Output Ports Definition: Devices are often physically connected to a device through an input/output (I/O) port. Example: The best-known of these ports is the Universal Serial Bus (USB). See figure 2.13 below: 18  Figure 2.13: Input/Output Ports. Network Interface Card (NIC) Definition: A hardware component that allows computers to connect to a network. Example: The NIC in your computer allows it to connect to the Internet or local network resources. Figure 2.14 shows sample of NIC Figure 2.14: Network Interface Card. Cooling System (Fans) Definition: Keeps the computer from overheating by circulating air or cooling liquid. Example: Computer fans kick in to cool down the components when you are running intensive programs or games. Look at the next figure (figure 2.15): 19  Figure 2.15: Network Interface Card. Speakers Definition: Output devices for sound. Example: Connect speakers to your computer to listen to music or the audio from movies. Look at figure 2.16. Figure 2.16: Computer with two speakers. Sound Card Definition: An internal computer expansion card that facilitates the input and output of audio signals to and from a computer under control of computer programs. 20  Example: A sound card is needed to provide the audio capabilities for multimedia applications like games and music players. You can see figure 2.17 for mor explanation. Figure 2.17: Sound card. Bluetooth card (or adapter) Bluetooth is a technology for wireless communication over short distances. It's often used in computers to communicate with wireless keyboards, mice, and printers. It's commonly built into the motherboard or included in a wireless network card. For computers that don't have Bluetooth, you can purchase a USB adapter, often called a dongle as shown in figure 2.18. Figure 2.18: Sound card. 21 Wi-Fi Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide wireless high-speed Internet access. The term Wi-Fi is short for "wireless fidelity". See figure 2.19 which display an external Wi-Fi. Figure 2.19: External Wi-Fi. What is ROM Memory? ROM (Read Only Memory) is a type of computer memory that stores permanent data and instructions for the device to start up. See figure 2.20: Figure 2.20: ROM on the Motherboard. 22 The role of ROM in computers No matter what type of computer you have - desktop PC, laptop, tablet - it will almost certainly contain some form of non-volatile RAM or ROM. These types of memories store important information such as BIOS settings and operating system instructions that your computer needs in order to operate correctly. Without them your computer would essentially be "brain dead" so it’s important that they remain functional at all times. Hard drive The hard drive is where your software, documents, and other files are stored. The hard drive is long-term storage, which means the data is still saved even if you turn the computer off or unplug it, look at figure 2.21. Figure 2.21: Hard disk. When you run a program or open a file, the computer copies some of the data from the hard drive onto the RAM. When you save a file, the data is copied back to the hard drive. The faster the hard drive, the faster your computer can start up and load programs. Types of Hard Drives Currently, there are two common types of hard drive: Hard Disk Drive (HDD). Solid State Drive (SSD). 23 List of Computer Storage Devices Floppy Disk Hard Drive Zip Disk Optical Storage Devices CD-ROM Blu-Ray Disc DVD CD-R Flash Memory Devices USB Drive Memory Card Memory Stick SD-Card Storage Measurements Units Bit: All computers work on a binary numbering system, i.e. they process data in ones or zeros. These 1 or 0 levels of storage is called bit. Byte: A byte consists of eight bits, 1 Byte= 8 bit. Kilobyte: A kilobyte (KB) consists of 1024 bytes. Megabyte: A megabyte (MB) consists of 1024 kilobytes. Gigabyte: A gigabyte (GB) consists of 1024 megabytes. Terabyte: A terabyte (TB) consists of 1024 gigabytes. Computer Input and Output Devices Input Devices: Peripheral devices whose purpose is to allow the user to provide input to a computer system, while Input is an information entered into a computer or program for processing using input devices. 24 Input Devices Keyboard Mouse Microphone Barcode Scanner Joystick Digital camera Output devices: Peripheral devices used to show the processes information from computer system includes items such as screens (monitors), projector, printers, speakers and headphones. Input and Output device Some devices are both input and output devices Alternatively referred to as an IO device, an input/output device is any hardware used by a human operator or other systems to communicate with a computer. As the name suggests, input/output devices are capable of sending data to a computer and receiving data from a computer. Examples of I/O devices: Network adapter CD-R/RW A modem can be used for downloading information from web sites, sending and receiving emails. A touch screen can display a menu system (output device), and accept input when people touch the menus displayed on the screen. 25 PCs and Macs Personal computers come in two main styles: PC and Mac. Both are fully functional, but they have a different look and feel, and many people prefer one or the other, see figure 2.22. Figure 2.22: PC vs MAC. PCs This type of computer began with the original IBM PC that was introduced in 1981. Other companies began creating similar computers, which were called IBM PC Compatible (often shortened to PC). Today, this is the most common type of personal computer, and it typically includes the Microsoft Windows operating system, figure 2.23 shows sample of PC. Figure 2.23: Personal Computer. 26 MACs The Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984, and it was the first widely sold personal computer with a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). All Macs are made by one company (Apple), and they almost always use the Mac OS operating system, see figure 2.24. Figure 2.24: Apple MAC computer. 27 3. NETWORKS A network consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share resources (such as printers and CDs), exchange files, or allow electronic communications. The computers on a network may be linked through cables, telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or infrared light beams, see figure 3.1. Figure 3.1: Computer networking simulation sample. 3.1. Types of Networks Two very common types of networks include: LAN (Local Area Network). PAN (Personal Area Network). MAN (Metropolitan Area Network). WAN (Wide Area Network). 3.1.1. Local Area Network LAN is a group of computers connected to each other in a small area such as building, office, look at figure 3.2. LAN is used for connecting two or more personal computers through a communication medium such as twisted pair, coaxial cable, etc. It is less costly as it is built with inexpensive hardware such as hubs, network adapters, and ethernet cables. The data is transferred at an extremely faster rate in LAN. Provides higher security. 28  Figure 3.2: Local area network. 3.1.2. Personal Area Network PAN is a network arranged within an individual person, typically within a range of 10 meters. PAN covers an area of 30 feet. Personal computer devices that are used to develop the personal area network are the laptop, mobile phones, media player and play stations, see figure 3.3. Figure 3.3: Personal area network. There are two types of Personal Area Network: Wired Personal Area Network: is created by using internet cables. Wireless Personal Area Network: developed by simply using wireless technologies such as WiFi, Bluetooth. It is a low range network. 29 3.1.3. Metropolitan Area Network MAN is a network that covers a larger geographic area by interconnecting a different LAN to form a larger network, see figure 3.4. Government agencies use MAN to connect to the citizens and private industries. In MAN, various LANs are connected to each other through a telephone exchange line. It has a higher range than Local Area Network (LAN). Figure 3.4: Metropolitan area network. 3.1.4. Wide Area Network WAN is a network that extends over a large geographical area such as states or countries, see figure 3.5. WAN is quite bigger network than the LAN. WAN is not limited to a single location, but it spans over a large geographical area through a telephone line, fiber optic cable or satellite links. The internet is one of the biggest WAN in the world. WAN is widely used in the field of Business, government, and education. 30  Figure 3.5: Wide area network. Computer networks serve a number of purposes, some of which include Communications such as email, instant messaging, chat rooms, etc. Shared hardware such as printers and input devices Shared data and information through the use of shared storage devices Shared software, which is achieved by running applications on remote computers Some of the basic hardware components that can be used in networks include: Interface Cards: These allow computers to communicate over the network with a low-level addressing system using media access control (MAC) addresses to distinguish one computer from another, see figure 3.6. 31  Figure 3.6: Network interface card. Repeaters: These are electronic devices that amplify communication signals and also filter noise from interfering with the signals. Hubs: These contain multiple ports, allowing a packet of information/data to be copied unmodified and sent to all computers on the network. Bridges: These connect network segments, which allows information to flow only to specific destinations Switches: These are devices that forward, make forwarding decisions and otherwise filter chunks of data communication between ports according to the MAC addresses in the packets of information. Routers: These are devices that forward packets between networks by processing the information in the packet. Firewalls: These reject network access requests from unsafe sources, but allow requests for safe ones, see figure 3.7. Figure 3.7: Computer firewall. 32 3.2. Mobile Network Operator (MNO) Mobile phones work by sending and receiving low power radio signals, much like a 2-way radio system. The signals are sent to and received from antennas that are attached to radio transmitters and receivers, commonly referred to as mobile phone base stations. The base stations are linked to the rest of the mobile and fixed phone network and pass the signal/call on into those networks, see figure 3.8. Figure 3.8: Mobile networking. These mobile operators also known as a wireless service provider, wireless carrier, cellular company, or mobile network carrier, MNOs are providers of wireless communication services (see figure 3.9) that own or control all the elements necessary to deliver services to customers, this includes: Radio spectrum allocation: The airwaves used for transmitting signals. Wireless network infrastructure: This includes the cell towers, base stations, and switches that make up the network. SIM cards: Identify subscribers and store their information. Core network: This handles call routing, data transmission, and billing. 33  Figure 3.9: Providing mobile networks. Client / Server Networks A client-server network is a form of internet network that consists of a single central computer functioning as a server and directing several other computers, referred to as clients, see figure 3.10. Clients can access shared files and information kept on the serving machine by connecting to the server. The medium through which clients access resources and services from a central computer, via either a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide-Area Network (WAN), such as the Internet. Figure 3.10: Client / server networks. 34 4. ONLINE AND WEB ESSENTIALS Today, the internet has become an important part of everyday life for people around the world. Appropriate use of the internet makes our life easy, fast and simple. The internet helps us with facts and figures, information and knowledge for personal, social and economic development. There are many uses of the internet, however, the use of the internet in our daily life depends on individual requirements and goals. That is why we have internet plans that suit those needs, whether that be, internet plans for the home, personal or business internet, each one has a part to play. 4.1. Internet Basics The Internet is an increasingly important part of everyday life for people around the world. But if you've never used the Internet before, all of this new information might feel a bit confusing at first. 4.1.1. What is the Internet? The Internet is a global network of billions of computers and other electronic devices. With the Internet, it's possible to access almost any information, communicate with anyone else in the world, and do much more. You can do all of this by connecting a computer to the Internet, which is also called going online. When someone says a computer is online, it's just another way of saying it's connected to the Internet. Figure 4.1: Internet sharing. 35 4.1.2. What is the World Wide Web (www)? The World Wide Web - usually called the Web for short - is a collection of different websites you can access through the Internet. A website is made up of related text, images, and other resources. Websites can resemble other forms of media - like newspaper articles or television programs - or they can be interactive in a way that's unique to computers. The purpose of a website can be almost anything: a news platform, an advertisement, an online library, a forum for sharing images, or an educational site (figure 4.2 shows an example of an educational site). Figure 4.2: Educational website (UOZ). Once you are connected to the Internet, you can access and view websites using a type of application called a web browser. Note: The web browser itself is not the Internet; it only displays websites that are stored on the Internet. 4.1.3. Types of Internet Connection Digital Subscriber Line (DSL): It provides an internet connection through the telephone line(network). DSL is a form of broadband communication that is always on. Speed: between 128 k to 8 Mbps, see figure 4.3. 36  Figure 4.3: DSL principle. Cable It is a form of broadband access cable modem that can provide extremely fast access to the internet. The speed of this connection varies which can be different for uploading data transmission or downloading. Speed: between 512k to 20Mbps, see figure 4.4. Figure 4.4: Cable medium. Satellite This type of connection is provided mainly in rural areas where a broadband connection is not yet offered. It accesses the internet via a satellite that is in Earth’s orbit. Speed: between 512k to 2Mbps. 37  Figure 4.5: Internet using satellite. Wireless Connection As the name suggests wireless connection does not use telephone lines or cables to connect to the internet. The wireless connection uses a radio frequency band to connect to the internet, see figure 4.6. It is also an always-on connection and this connection can be accessed from anywhere. Speed: between 5Mbps to 20Mbps. Figure 4.6: Wireless connection. Cellular Cellular technology provides wireless Internet access through cell phones. Speed may vary depending on the service provider. The most common are 3G and 4G, see figure 4.7. 38  Speed of 3G: around 2Mbps. Speed of 4G: around 21Mbps. Figure 4.7: Cellular technology. 4.1.4. Data Transfer Uploading is the process of putting web pages, images and files onto a web server. To make a file visible to everyone on the internet, you will need to upload it. Downloading is the process of getting web pages, images and files from a web server. When users are copying this file to their computer, they are downloading it. Figure 4.8: Data Transfer (upload and download). 39 4.1.5. How does the Internet work? It's important to realize that the Internet is a global network of physical cables, which can include copper telephone wires, TV cables, and fiber optic cables. Even wireless connections like Wi-Fi and 3G/4G rely on these physical cables to access the Internet. When you visit a website, your computer sends a request over these wires to a server. A server is where websites are stored, and it works a lot like your computer's hard drive. Once the request arrives, the server retrieves the website and sends the correct data back to your computer. 4.1.6. Other things you can do on the Internet One of the best features of the Internet is the ability to communicate almost instantly with anyone in the world. Email is one of the oldest and most universal ways to communicate and share information on the Internet, and billions of people use it. Social media allows people to connect in a variety of ways and build communities online, see figure 4.9. Figure 4.9: Communication using internet. There are many other things you can do on the Internet. There are thousands of ways to keep up with news or shop for anything online. You can pay your bills, manage your bank accounts, meet new people, watch TV, or learn new skills. You can learn or do almost anything online. 40 4.2. Web Browsers A web browser allows you to connect to and view websites. The web browser itself is not the Internet, but it displays pages on the Internet. Each website has a unique address. By typing this address into your web browser, you can connect to that website and your web browser will display it. Here are the most common web browser over the worlds (see figure 4.10 for more explanation): Chrome: Best Browser for Stability. Safari: Best Browser for Battery Life (MacOS and iOS Only). Edge: Fast and secure browser from Microsoft. Firefox: Best Non-Chromium Privacy-Based Browser. Brave: Best Privacy-Based Browser for Crypto-Enthusiasts. Opera: Staying Relevant but Serious Privacy Concerns. Arc Browser: Most Innovative Browser. Figure 4.10: Common web browsers. 4.2.1. Navigating websites Websites often have links to other sites, also called hyperlinks. These are often parts of the text on the website. They are usually colored blue, and sometimes they are underlined or bold. If you click the text, your browser will load a different page. Web authors use hyperlinks to connect relevant pages. This web of links is one of the most unique features of the Internet, lending to the old name World Wide Web. Each website has a unique address, called a URL. You'll notice that when you click a link, the URL changes as your browser loads a new page. If you type a URL in the address bar in your browser, your browser will load the page associated with 41 that URL. It's like a street address, telling your browser where to go on the Internet. You can see figure 4.11 which shows an example of browsing website. Figure 4.11: Browsing a website. When you're looking for specific information on the Internet, a search engine can help. A search engine is a specialized website that's designed to help you find other websites. If you type keywords or a phrase into a search engine, it will display a list of websites relevant to your search terms. 4.2.2. Google Chrome Google Chrome is a free web browser from Google. With its clean design and advanced features, Chrome has quickly become one of the most popular web browsers worldwide. Chrome's features Chrome has several features that make it easy to browse the web. Learn more about some of Chrome's features below. Speed: Because Chrome was designed with web applications in mind, performance with websites like Gmail and Facebook is especially fast and reliable. Security: Chrome has a variety of tools to help keep you safe online. It is constantly updating, so you're always protected from the latest malware and phishing scams. For example, Chrome will show you a warning whenever you visit a page that is potentially dangerous, see figure 4.12 security message. 42  Figure 4.12: Security alarm from google chrome browser. Customization: While Chrome's design is simple, the Chrome Web Store makes it easy to customize Chrome with web apps, themes, and extensions, see figure 4.13. Figure 4.13: Chrome customization. Translation: Whenever you visit a website that's in a foreign language, Chrome will automatically offer to translate the page to your native language. This feature isn't always perfect, but it opens the door to millions of websites you might never have visited otherwise, see figure 4.14. 43  Figure 4.14: Chrome translation tool. Downloading Chrome Unlike Internet Explorer or Safari, Chrome does not come pre-installed with your operating system. To use Chrome, you must first download and install it to your computer. The process is simple and should take no more than a few minutes. To download and install Chrome: 1. Using your current web browser, navigate to www.google.com/chrome 2. The Google Chrome download page will appear. Locate and select the Download now button. 3. A dialog box will appear. Review the Google Chrome Terms of Service, then click Accept and Install. 44 4. The Google Chrome Installer will open automatically. The download and installation process may vary depending on your current web browser and operating system. Step-by-step instructions will appear in the browser window if you are not sure how to proceed. 5. The installer will close when finished, and Google Chrome will open. 45 PRACTICAL PART Practical section includes Windows (it doesn't make difference if Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 is installed on lab computers), the following windows essentials are the minimum requirements to be studied in the lab: Desktop Personalization (background, theme, lock screen, … etc.). Icons (move, arrange, group, … etc.). Right Click Menu (R.C on different places). Taskbar (icons, language bar, clock,... etc.). Start Menu (shutdown, restart, user account, … etc.). Windows Explorer (moving windows, maximize, minimize, close, arrange, … etc.). Files and folders (moving, copy, delete, rename, … etc.). File management (show, change properties, view, share, search… etc.). Date and time (regional format, clock, date, … etc.). Mouse (Properties, color and shape, speed, … etc.). User Accounts (Create, delete, change type, … etc.). 46