Using ICT systems

1. Using ICT systems The computer

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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

5. Computers in an ICT System • Folder structures • Important to have a proper sensible folder structure for your files with sensible file names.

6. Using ICT systems Networking

7. 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)

8. 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

9. 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

10. 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

11. The components of networks Data transfer medium Network card (also called network interface card) Hubs, switches and routers Network software

12. Data transfer medium The medium/method by which the data is transmitted in a network can be: • metal wire • fibre optic cable • wireless

13. Communication devices 1 A network card: • prepares data for sending over the network • sends the data • controls the flow of data

14. Communication devices 2 A hub: • is used to join computers in a network • allows the connection of cables • allows sharing files and Internet access

15. 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

16. 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

17. 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.

18. 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

19. Disadvantages of Networks Needs network manager Security problems such as viruses spread quickly. Breakdowns Infrastructure can be expensive