Computers

The Computer System

A computer is an electronic device that processes data, converting it into information that is useful to people

The Computer System.

Any computer- regardless of its type- is controlled by programmed instructions, which give the machine a purpose and tell it what to do.

One of the four main types of computers: used in homes, offices, etc.

Personal

One of the four main types of computers: used in large organizations. Banks, insurance companies. Connect through terminals

Mainframe

One of the four main types of computers: phones, tablets, laptops

Mobile

One of the four main types of computers: fastest and most expensive. Solves trillions of calculations per second

Supercomputer

Hardware (The computer)

Mechanical devices that make up the computer. Consists of interconnected electronic devices that you can use to control the computer's operation. Controls input and output

Computer Hardware Component: holds active programs and data

RAM - Random Access Memory

Computer Hardware Component: the 'brain' of the computer

CPU - Central Processing Unit

Computer Hardware Component: provides connections to each device

Motherboard - The "foundation"

Computer Hardware Component: Stores information

Hard Drive

Software (Programs) (Windows, Operating Systems (OS), Web Browsers (Chrome, Firefox, etc.)

Set of instructions that makes the computer perform tasks

Data (Information)

Individual facts or pieces of information that, by themselves, don't mean anything.

Computers take tiny pieces of ___ and convert them into information for us as users

Data (Information)

Geographical/Transport/Natural/Meteorological/Statistical/Financial/ Scientific/Cutlural

Data Examples

User (People)

Systems are incomplete without them. However, they are the most dangerous part for security purposes. No system is totally autonomous

Use in Business - We know that all businesses use technology and computers now. As managers/users/directors, we have to know how to resource our people effectively. Understanding the basics is critical

The Computer System

A malicious program that attaches itself to legitimate files or programs and spreads when the infected host is executed. Can disrupt operations, compromise data, and create significant risk

Viruses

Attach to .exe files. Commonly infects unpatched systems

File-Infector Viruses

Typically run through MS Word or Excel Files. Spread through documents and email attachments. Loaded when docs are opened

Macro Viruses

Change code when they are opened. Hard to catch and detect

Polymorphic Viruses

Rewrite their code with each infection. Maintain the same behavior

Metamorphic Viruses

spyware, adware, ransomware, trojan horses, and worm

Malware

Cause system downtime and productivity loss. Compromise sensitive data. Increase IT recovery and security costs. Create legal and reputational risks

Virus Effects

Use in Business - Viruses remain a major organizational risk. User behavior plays a critical role in prevention. Antivirus tools alone are not sufficient. Policies, training, and backups are essential

Viruses

Fully immersive, computer-generated environment. Replaces the user's real-world surroundings. Users interact via headsets and controllers

VR

Digital information overlaid onto the real world. Enhances, rather than replaces, physical surroundings. Viewed through smartphones, tablets, or smart glasses

AR

Use in Business - Training& HR(Safety training simulations)/Operations & Manufacturing (Equipment maintenance guidance)/Marketing & Sales(Virtual product demonstrations)/Healthcare(Surgical training simulations)/Education(Virtual classrooms and labs)

VR

Cryptocurrency

Form of payment that can be exchanged online forgoods and services

Have to trade actual currency to access the ____.

Cryptocurrency

Bitcoin/Ethereum/Tether/XRP/BNB

Cryptocurrencies

Use in Business - Cross-border payments/Digital assets and NFTs/Decentralized finance

Cryptocurrency

User initiates a transaction. Transaction is broadcast to the network. Nodes validate the transaction. Transaction added to a block. Block added to the blockchain. Ledger updates across the network

Cryptocurrency Transactions

Why is Cryptocurrency important?

More and more businesses accepting crypto Customer's desire to use crypto in the marketplace Growing investments in digital currencies Some businesses accepting crypto, while others are resistant

Components of a Cryptocurrency System: (distributed ledger)

Blockchain

Components of a Cryptocurrency System: (computers maintaining the network)

Nodes

Components of a Cryptocurrency System: (rules for nodes to follow)

Consensus mechanisms

Components of a Cryptocurrency System: security on how things are being done (public/private)

Cryptographic keys

Components of a Cryptocurrency System: want to buy or sell something you have to log onto these.

Wallets and exchanges