using ict systems
DESCRIPTION
Using ICT systems. The computer. Computers in an ICT System. Multiple computers, usually with username and password entry Looking after them – Shutting down properly to prevent data corruption. Looking at system settings and user preferences. Computers in an ICT System. Interfaces - PowerPoint PPT PresentationTRANSCRIPT
Using ICT systems
The computer
Using ICT systems
Computers in an ICT System
• Multiple computers, usually with username and password entry
• Looking after them – – Shutting down properly to prevent data
corruption.– Looking at system settings and user
preferences.
Using ICT systems
Computers in an ICT System
• Interfaces – Command line
• Type precise instructions• Hard to use
– Menu driven interface• Choice through number or letter
– GUI• Graphical user interface – windows.
Using ICT systems
Computers in an ICT System
• Graphical User Interface.– Can be customised
• Adjusting window size• Mouse settings• Icon size• Screen resolution• Desktop fonts• Colour• Position• Graphics• Contrast• Volume• Toolbars• Date and Time
Using ICT systems
Computers in an ICT System
• Folder structures– Important to have a proper sensible
folder structure for your files with sensible file names.
Using ICT systems
Networking
Using ICT systems
What is a network?
• Two or more computers that are linked together
• So that they are able to share resources (data, programs, services (e.g., the Internet) and hardware)
Using ICT systems
Peer-to-peer networks
• Each computer on the network is of equal status
• All computers share each other’s resources
• Simple to set up• Only suitable for
small networks
Using ICT systems
Client-server network
• A more powerful computer, called the server, is in charge of the network
• Software and data is stored on this server
• They are complex to set up• They are ideal for larger networks
Using ICT systems
LANs and WANs
Local area networks:• Confined to a small area • Usually located in a single
building • Use cable, wireless,
infrared and microwave links that are usually owned by the organization
• Cheap to build• Cheap to run
Wide area networks:• Cover a wide geographical
area (e.g., between cities, countries and even continents)
• In lots of different buildings and cities, countries, etc.
• Use more expensive telecommunication links that are supplied by telecommunication companies
• Expensive to build• Expensive to run
Using ICT systems
The components of networks
• Data transfer medium• Network card (also called network
interface card)• Hubs, switches and routers• Network software
Using ICT systems
Data transfer medium
The medium/method by which the data is transmitted in a network can be:•metal wire•fibre optic cable•wireless
Using ICT systems
Communication devices 1
A network card:• prepares data for
sending over the network
• sends the data• controls the flow of
data
Using ICT systems
Communication devices 2
A hub:• is used to join
computers in a network
• allows the connection of cables
• allows sharing files and Internet access
Using ICT systems
Communication devices 3
A switch:• similar device to a hub
but more intelligent• can look at a packet of
data to decide where it should go
• reduces the number of packets of data on a network which speeds the network up
Using ICT systems
Communication devices 4
A router:• can be wired or
wireless• is used to join
several networks together
• is often used to connect several computers in the home to the Internet
Using ICT systems
Networking software
Consists of:• Network operating systems – specialist
operating systems designed specifically for networks
• Network management software – used to help a network manager run a network by keeping track of software, keeping software up-to-date, installing software security patches, helping to manage the help-desk, etc.
Using ICT systems
Advantages of Networks• Share hardware• Software installed in one place on client-
server networks• Improved security• Speed• Costs reduced with network versions of
software• Email facilities• Central stores of data
Using ICT systems
Disadvantages of Networks• Needs network manager
• Security problems such as viruses spread quickly.
• Breakdowns• Infrastructure can be expensive