Chapter 1 - Introduction to Computers and the Internet Basic functions of a Computer Input – entering info into the computer (e.g. keyboard, mouse, mic,

Chapter 1 - Introduction to Computers and the Internet

Basic functions of a Computer

Input – entering info into the computer (e.g. keyboard, mouse, mic, touchscreen)Processing – perform operations on the data (e.g. do calculations to play a game)Output – present the results (e.g. display on monitor, speakers, printerStorage – save data, programs for future use (e.g. hard drive, flash drive, DVD)Communications – communicate with other computers (e.g. modems and routers communicate with the network or Internet)

Generations of Computers

• Smart Phone/Mobile• Tablet Computer – e.g. iPad• PC versus Mac – A PC (personal computer) usually refers

to a computer running Windows and a Mac run the Mac OS.

• Laptop - also called a notebook is a portable computer usually running Windows or Mac OS. A netbook is a small laptop, usually with a screen less than 10”.

• Servers – computers that host data for companies (e.g. medical information system for a hospital). Also there are web servers and e-mail servers.

• Mainframe Computers – large multi-user computers for large companies.

• Supercomputer – fastest computers for CPU intensive applications such as science and engineering

• Embedded computer – a computer built into a device for a single purpose. E.g. televisions and cars have embedded computers.

• Internet Appliance – home devices and appliances connected to the Internet

Categories of Computers

Cloud Computing refers to data and programs being located on the Internet instead of one’s own computer. Example: http://www.apple.com/icloud/

Virtualization

Cloud Computing

Virtualization is the creation of a virtual (rather than actual) version of something, such as a hardware platform, operating system, or storage device.

Home Network Diagram

2010 Internet Usage as % of Population

InternetThe Internet is the largest computer network in the world. The word “Internet” comes from “Inter-connected networks” because the TCP/IP protocol allows for everyone’s own network to connect to others.

The company that provides you with Internet access is called an ISP (Internet Service Provider).

Name some ISP’s that you use?

The World Wide Web (WWW) refers to the collection of web pages that link to each other. Note that web pages are only one application the Internet is used for.

What else do we use the Internet for other than WWW?

Every computer and web server on the Internet is identified by its IP address (same idea as a telephone number). The domain name system (DNS) allows us to use domain names (e.g. Facebook.com) instead of its IP address (e.g. 69.63.189.16).

What’s the IP address of your computer?

Domain NamesA domain name identifies a web site on the Internet – e.g. Amazon.com

The top-level domain (TLD) was originallyintended to identify the type of organization:

Soon after, new 2 letter TLD’s were setup for each country (e.g. .us or .mx)

A few more have been added since thensuch as .jobs and .mobi

Go to a domain name registrar and search for yourname.comIs it already registered?

URL (uniform resource locater) uniquely identifies a web site. It is also just known as the web site’s address.

e.g. http://cis.eastfieldcollege.edu/kirk/cosc1301/default.html

What the protocol? TLD? folder(s)? file?

Protecting Your Computer

Do not open executable (.exe) e-mail attachments. These could be contained in a compressed zip folder.

You do not get viruses from pictures, music, or video. Be careful that you are not tricked into installing a program when viewing them. E.g. a new media player, plug-in, download manager, etc.

Think twice about installing any program. Do you really need it? Does it come from a reputable software company? Is the site you’re downloading it from reputable?

Password protect your computer’s login and your phone. If it gets stolen then your personal information could be compromised.

Backup!!!! You only need to brush the teeth you want to keep. You only need to backup the data you want to keep.

Intellectual Property

Name the different types of Intellectual Property (click)

Books, Music, Movies, Paintings, Trademarks, Inventions, Software

The three main types of intellectual property rights are

1. Copyrights – protects books, music, movies, software. They normally last for 70 years after the creator’s death.

2. Trademarks – protects a phrase, symbol, or design that identifies a product.

3. Patents – protects inventions.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cuIJRsAuCHQ