Information Technology 2024-04-15

Key Terms
Antivirus Software

Antivirus software is a type of program designed to prevent, detect, and remove malicious
software like viruses, worms, and Trojan horses.

Regular updates are critical for antivirus effectiveness.

Real-time scanning monitors system activities for malicious behavior.
Quarantine feature isolates infected files to prevent further damage.
Scheduled scans can be set to run automatically at specific times.

API

An API serves as an intermediary allowing applications to communicate and interact with each
other by defining a set of rules and protocols.

APIs enable developers to access the functionality of a system or service without needing to
understand its internal workings.
RESTful APIs use standard HTTP methods to perform operations like GET, POST, PUT, and
DELETE on resources.
API documentation is crucial for developers as it provides information on available endpoints,
request parameters, and response formats.
APIs can be developed using different protocols such as SOAP, REST, or GraphQL, each with
its own advantages and use cases.

BIOS

BIOS is a firmware responsible for initiating hardware components and enabling the loading of
the operating system at computer startup.

BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System.

It is stored on a non-volatile ROM chip on the motherboard.
BIOS settings can be accessed during boot-up by pressing a specific key (e.g., F2, Del).
Updating BIOS can provide compatibility improvements, bug fixes, and enhanced
performance.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing refers to the practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the
internet to store, manage, and process data.

It allows for on-demand access to computing resources without the need for local servers or
infrastructure.
Cloud services are scalable, enabling companies to easily adjust resources to meet changing
needs.
Common cloud computing models include SaaS (Software as a Service), PaaS (Platform as a
Service), and IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service).
Security is a key consideration in cloud computing, with providers implementing measures to
protect data and ensure privacy.

CPU

The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is the main component of a computer responsible for
executing instructions and performing calculations.

CPUs are often referred to as the 'brain' of the computer.

Speed of a CPU is measured in gigahertz (GHz), indicating how many instructions it can
process per second.
Modern CPUs have multiple cores, allowing them to perform multiple tasks simultaneously.
Certain tasks, such as video editing and gaming, benefit from CPUs with higher performance
capabilities.

Database

A database is an organized collection of data that is stored and accessed electronically for
efficient retrieval and management.

Structured into tables that consist of rows and columns for storing related information.
Uses queries to retrieve, update, or manipulate data according to specific criteria.
Ensures data integrity and security through permissions, backups, and encryption methods.
Common database management systems include MySQL, Oracle, SQL Server, and
PostgreSQL.

Debugging

Debugging is the process of identifying and fixing errors or bugs in a computer program to
ensure it functions correctly.

Common debugging techniques include using breakpoints, print statements, and debugging
tools.
Debugging can involve tracing code execution, examining variables, and testing different
inputs.
It is essential to have good problem-solving skills and attention to detail when debugging.
Debugging skills can save time and frustration by quickly resolving issues and enhancing
overall program quality.
Encryption

Encryption is the process of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorized access,
ensuring sensitive information is secure.

Encryption uses algorithms to scramble data, requiring a key to decrypt and access the
original information.
There are two main types of encryption: symmetric (using the same key for both encryption
and decryption) and asymmetric (using different keys).
Common encryption algorithms include AES, RSA, and DES, each with varying levels of
security and complexity.
Encryption is essential for protecting data in transit (such as online communication) and data
at rest (stored information on devices).

External storage

External storage refers to devices or mediums used to store data outside the main computing
device, such as hard drives or USB flash drives.

Common types include external hard drives, USB flash drives, SD cards, and cloud storage
services.
External storage provides additional space for data backup and portability.
It enables users to easily transfer files between different devices.
External storage is essential for data security, as it allows for storing important information
separately from the main system.

Firewall

A firewall is a network security system that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing
network traffic based on predetermined security rules.

It acts as a barrier between an internal network and external networks to prevent

unauthorized access and attacks.
Firewalls can be hardware-based (physical devices) or software-based (programs installed on
a computer or server).
They are essential for protecting systems from malicious threats such as viruses, hackers,
and unauthorized access.
Firewalls can be configured to allow or block specific traffic based on criteria such as IP
address, port number, and protocol.

Graphics Card

A graphics card is a hardware component that renders images, animations, and videos to display
on a computer monitor.
 Also known as a video card or GPU (Graphics Processing Unit).
Critical for gaming and graphic design due to enhanced performance.
Connects to the motherboard and has its memory to process graphics efficiently.
Higher-end graphics cards have advanced features like ray tracing and high refresh rates.

Hard Drive

A hard drive is a computer storage device that stores and retrieves digital data using magnetic
storage and has higher storage capacities compared to other storage devices.

Types include HDDs (hard disk drives) and SSDs (solid-state drives).
Information stored on a hard drive remains intact even when the computer is turned off.
Hard drives have spinning disks for reading and writing data in HDDs, while SSDs use flash
memory for faster data access.
Fragmentation occurs when data is stored in non-contiguous blocks on a hard drive, affecting
performance and requiring defragmentation.

Hardware

Hardware refers to physical components of a computer system, including the processor,

memory, storage devices, and input/output devices.

It encompasses all tangible aspects of a computer setup, essential for the system to function
properly.
Various types of hardware components include a motherboard, graphics card, hard drive, and
power supply unit.
Hardware can be classified as internal (e.g., CPU) or external (e.g., keyboard) components.
Upgrading hardware can improve overall system performance and enable newer software to
run smoothly.

Input Devices

Input devices are hardware components used to provide data and control signals to a computer
system through direct entry, such as keyboards and mice.

Examples include touchscreens, graphic tablets, barcode readers, and microphones.

These devices convert human actions into digital signals for the computer to process.
Input devices can be classified as manual input devices or direct data entry devices.
They play a crucial role in enabling users to interact with and provide information to a
computer system.

JavaScript

JavaScript is a versatile programming language commonly used for web development to create
dynamic content and interactive features on websites.

JavaScript runs on the client-side (in the browser) and can be used to manipulate HTML and
CSS.
It is commonly used to create animations, validate form data, interact with servers via APIs,
and develop web-based games.
JavaScript libraries and frameworks such as jQuery, React, and Angular provide pre-written
code to streamline development.
ES6, the latest version of JavaScript, introduced new features like arrow functions, classes,
and modules to enhance code readability and efficiency.

Linux

Linux is an open-source operating system based on Unix that is widely used for servers,
desktops, and embedded systems.

Developed by Linus Torvalds in 1991.

Comes in various distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Debian.
Known for its stability, security, and flexibility.
Works on a wide range of hardware, from smartphones to supercomputers.

Malware

Malware is malicious software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a

computer system.

Types of malware include viruses, ransomware, spyware, and worms.

Malware can be unintentionally downloaded through email attachments, unsafe websites, or
malicious links.
Antivirus software is designed to detect and remove malware from computer systems.
Regular software updates and strong passwords can help prevent malware infections.

motherboard

The motherboard is the main circuit board in a computer that connects all components and
allows them to communicate with each other.

Contains CPU socket, RAM slots, expansion slots, and other connectors.
Responsible for determining the compatibility of various hardware components.
Provides power supply and distributes power to different parts of the computer.
Also known as the mainboard or system board.

Network adapter
A network adapter is a hardware component that allows a device to connect to a network to
communicate and access resources.

Also referred to as a network interface card (NIC).

Enables wired or wireless connections to networks.
Uses MAC address to identify devices on a network.
Can support different network technologies such as Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

operating system

An operating system manages hardware and software resources, providing services for
computer programs to execute efficiently and interact with users.

Common operating systems include Windows, macOS, and Linux.

The operating system controls file management, memory allocation, and peripheral devices.
It serves as an intermediary between applications and computer hardware.
Key functions of an operating system include process management, memory management,
and device management.

Output Devices

Output devices in technology display information from a computer onto screens or in printed
form to provide users with tangible results.

Common output devices include monitors, printers, speakers, and projectors.

Output devices can convert electronic data into a readable format for users.
Interaction with output devices often involves visual, audio, or print feedback.
The quality and resolution of output devices impact the clarity and presentation of displayed
information.

Peripheral Devices

Peripheral devices are hardware components that connect to a computer to provide additional
functionality, such as input, output, or storage.

They can include devices like printers, scanners, monitors, and external storage drives.
Peripheral devices enhance the capabilities of a computer system.
These devices are connected externally to the main computer.
Some common connections for peripheral devices are USB, HDMI, and Bluetooth.

power supply

A power supply is a device that converts electrical energy from a power source to usable power
for electronic devices.
 It provides the necessary voltage and current to components within a system.
Types include ATX, SFX, and TFX, each designed for specific form factors.
Efficiency ratings like 80 Plus indicate energy efficiency levels.
Components can include capacitors, transformers, rectifiers, and voltage regulators.

Python

Python is a versatile and high-level programming language known for its readability and ease of
use in a wide range of applications.

Python supports multiple programming paradigms like object-oriented, functional, and

procedural programming.
Python code is interpreted at runtime, making it suitable for rapid prototyping and
development.
Python has a large standard library, providing support for various tasks without needing
additional modules.
Python is popular for web development, scientific computing, artificial intelligence,
automation, and data analysis.

RAM

RAM, or Random Access Memory, is a type of computer memory that stores data and machine
code currently being used by the CPU.

RAM is volatile memory, meaning it loses data when power is turned off.
DRAM and SRAM are two common types of RAM, with DRAM being slower and more
affordable compared to SRAM.
RAM modules are typically plug-in circuit boards, and the amount of RAM affects the
computer's multitasking capability.
Clearing RAM cache can help improve system performance by removing temporary data and
freeing up memory space.

Software

Software is a set of instructions that tell a computer how to perform specific tasks, such as
running applications, managing data, and communicating with hardware.

Software can be classified into system software, application software, and programming
software.
Open-source software allows access to its source code, enabling users to modify and
distribute it freely.
Proprietary software is owned by a specific organization and users must abide by licensing
agreements.
Software development involves stages like planning, designing, coding, testing, and
maintenance.
SSD

SSD stands for Solid State Drive, a storage device that uses integrated circuit assemblies to store
data persistently, offering faster access times than traditional hard drives.

SSDs have no moving parts, making them more durable and less susceptible to physical
damage.
SSD technology can significantly improve system boot-up times and overall performance.
Unlike HDDs, SSDs consume less power, leading to increased energy efficiency.
SSDs are more expensive than HDDs but provide faster read and write speeds, making them
ideal for high-performance computing.

URL

A URL, short for Uniform Resource Locator, is a string of characters that provides the address of
a specific resource on the internet.

A URL consists of the protocol used to access the resource, the domain name or IP address
of the server, and the path to the resource.
Some common protocols used in URLs include HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, and SMTP.
A URL may also contain parameters that provide additional information to the server.
URLs can be classified as absolute or relative, depending on whether they provide the full
address or a reference to a location relative to the current resource.

Virtualization

Virtualization is the process of creating a virtual version of a resource, such as a server, storage
device, or network, allowing multiple virtual instances to run independently.

It increases efficiency by maximizing the use of physical resources.

Virtual machines can be easily created, moved, and deleted without affecting the underlying
hardware.
Virtualization enables cost savings by reducing the need for physical hardware.
It enhances flexibility and scalability of IT infrastructure.

Web browser

A web browser is a software application used to access and navigate websites on the internet.

A web browser allows users to view, read, and interact with web pages.
Popular web browsers include Chrome, Firefox, Safari, and Internet Explorer.
Browsers use HTTP, HTTPS, HTML, and CSS to render and display web pages.
Web browsers often have built-in features like bookmarking, tabbed browsing, and private
browsing mode.