Computer and Networking Basics

© 2012 M and K Solutions, LLC -- All Rights Reserved

Terms to Know

√ Hardware and Software √ Networks and

Computers √ Safe Practices

hardware network AUP

  software   standalone computer   virus

  systems software   logging on  

  operating system   password  

 application

software   file management  

system unit file type

Hardware and Software

Hardware is physical computer equipment. This is equipment that you can actually touch like the CPU, the keyboard, and the monitor.

Software is computer instructions. These fall into two categories:o System Softwareo Application Software

System Software System software refers to the operating system,

the utility programs, and drivers that manage the computer.

o The Operating System controls the basic operations of your computer. • Your operating system is probably Windows XP, Vista, or

Windows 7.

o Drivers are programs that control specific brands and models of devices, like specific printers.

o Utilities are programs that help manage the system. Some examples are virus scanning software, defrag, writing to a CD.

Application SoftwareApplication software helps to user to perform a specific task—to do their work, pursue their hobbies, etc.

Examples of Application Software

Word processor◦ Word, WordPerfect

Spreadsheet◦ Excel, Lotus 1-2-3

Presentation◦ PowerPoint

Database Management◦ Access

Desktop Publishing◦ Publisher, InDesign

Email software◦ Outlook, Eudora

Personal Finance Software◦ Money, Quicken

Accounting Software◦ Quickbooks

Games Graphics Editing

◦ Photoshop Web Design Software

◦ FrontPage, DreamWeaver

Hardware - Input Devices

Input Devices include:• Keyboards• Mouse• Scanners• Cameras• Bar Code Readers• Joysticks• Game Controllers

Mouse

Keyboard

Scanner

Game Controller

Camera

Peripherals are devices that are attached to the computer that

aren’t necessary for the computer to

function, like the scanner, webcam,

joystick.

Hardware - Processor

The processor is called the CPU (Central Processing Unit).

While people sometimes call the case the CPU, it is actually the system unit.

o The system unit is the computer case that contains the CPU, power supply, memory, and storage.

The CPU is actually a chip on the motherboard inside the case.

The CPU chip is called the microprocessor.

Motherboard

Microprocessor

Hardware - Memory Memory refers to computer

chips that store data and programs while the computer is running.

The memory chips are located on the motherboard inside the system unit.

RAM (random access memory) is another name for memory.

o It is the memory that is used to store programs and data.

Motherboard

RAM – Memory Chips

System Unit

Hardware - Output Devices

Output devices include:o Monitorso Printerso Speakerso Projectorso Robotic

controlso Speech

synthesizers

Monitor

Projection System

Robotic Control

Printer

Speakers

Peripherals are devices that are attached to the computer that

aren’t necessary for the computer to

function, like the scanner, webcam,

joystick.

Hardware – Storage Devices

Storage devices include:

o Disk drive

o CD/DVD drive

o Flash drive

o Tape drive

All of these devices can be external (often attached by USB or other cable).

Some are frequently internal (inside the case).

Disk drive

CD/DVD drive

Flash drive

Tape drive

Care of Storage Media Optical media (CDs and DVDs)

o Handle by edges or center, not touching surface.

o Clean with lint free closes with approved cleaning solution.

o Store upright in jewel case.

o Store at room temperature.

USB flash drives and external hard driveso Wait until operations have stopped before trying to remove.

o Use Safely Remove Hardware feature.

o Avoid static electricity.

o Store at room temperature.

o Don’t force USB connector into computer—You may have it upside down.

o Keep cap on when not in use. (Flash drive)

o Don’t move or drop while drive is spinning. (External hard drive)

USB External Disk drive

Optical media (CDs & DVDs)

Flash drive

File Management

File management refers to a group of programs on the computer that allows the user to create, edit, view, print, rename, copy, or delete files, folders, or an entire file system.

File Type and File Extension

File type—refers to the way the data is encoded for storage. The file type is indicated by the extension, like .docx for Word 2007.

File extension—an abbreviation that indicates the software used to save or open the file.

.docx – Word file .pptx– PowerPoint file .xlsx – Excel file

.mdb– Access 2007 file .html – Web page file .jpg– graphic file

Networks

A network is a system that transmits any combination of voice, video and/or data between users.

o The network includes the network operating system in the client and server machines, the cables connecting them and all supporting hardware in between such as bridges, routers and switches.

o In wireless systems, wireless access points, antennas, and towers are also part of the network.

A stand-alone pc refers to a computer that is self-contained, one that does not require any other devices to function. It may be attached to the network but will continue to work when disconnected from the network.

Logging On & Password

Logging On enables you to gain entrance into the network.

• In order to log on you will need a user name and password.

• A password is a keyword used to access information. (such as: network, website, etc).

AUPAcceptable Use Policy

Most schools and business have acceptable use policies which define unacceptable behavior and its results.

In many schools the punishment ranges from a

warning to expulsion.

In most business, violation of the AUP is grounds for firing.

Be sure you are aware of and follow your school’s AUP.

Common AUP Infractions

Misuse, disconnecting, or vandalizing hardware Changing setting on computers without permission Installation of software without permission Deliberate introduction of a virus Attempting to access unauthorized files or network

resources Usage of another person’s user name and password. Using the computers for harassment or to access or convey

objectionable material Copyright and plagiarism Visiting inappropriate sites Use of chat rooms

Ways to Avoid Viruses

Use antivirus softwareo It should run memory resident (continuously)

Update your software often

Be careful opening email attachmentso Do not open an attachment from an unknown

source.o Save the file and scan it before opening.

Scan all files on floppy disks or CDs or downloaded from the Internet before using

Virus—program that was written to cause corruption of data on a computer. • It is usually attached to an executable file.

It can cause major damage to the computer‘s data.