LESSON 1

INTRODUCTION TO INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION

TECHNOLOGY (ICT)

EVOLUTION OF COMMUNICATION
Communication has improved and evolved to facilitate our daily activities. In the 21st
century, everything related to communication utilizes technology to ‘send out’ or
disseminate information to a wider audience. Information can be ‘sent out’ in many
ways. The inventions of cellular phones, television and other electronic devices are
important in enhancing communication.

WHAT IS ICT?
ICT is the technology required for information processing, in particular, the use
of electronic computers, communication devices and software applications to
convert, store, protect, process, transmit and retrieve information from
anywhere, anytime.

INFORMATION
Information refers to the knowledge obtained from reading, investigation,
study or research.

The tools to transmit information are the telephone, television and radio.
We need information to make decisions and to predict the future. For example,
scientists can detect the formation of a tsunami using the latest technology and
warn the public to avoid disasters in the affected areas.

Information is knowledge and helps us to fulfill our daily tasks. For example,
forecasting the stock exchange market.

COMMUNICATION

Communication is an act of transmitting messages. It is a process whereby

information is exchanged between individuals using symbols, signs or verbal
interactions. Previously, people communicated through sign or symbols,
performing drama and poetry. With the advent of technology, these ‘older’ forms
of communication are less utilised as compared to the use of the Internet, e-mail
or video conferencing.

Communication is important in order to gain knowledge. With knowledge, we

are more confident in expressing our thoughts and ideas.

TECHNOLOGY
Technology is the use of scientific knowledge, experience and
resources to create processes and products that fulfill human
needs. Technology is vital in communication.
Aiding Communication
Telephone and fax machines are the devices used in extending
communication.

Spreading Information
To broadcast information such as news or weather reports
effectively. Radio, television, satellites and the World Wide Web
(www) are powerful tools that can be used.

TECHNOLOGY TIMELINE

Technology Year

In 3500 BC, the Sumerians

developed cuneiform writing.

In 1500 BC, the Phoenicians

developed the alphabet

In 105 BC, Tsai Lun of

China invented paper.

In 1454, the first printing

began with the creation of a
printing machine.
Technology Year

In 1793, the telegraph line was

invented.

In 1876, the first telephone was

introduced.

In 1925, television was made

known to public.

In 1941, the computer was

created.

In 1958, the photocopier machine

was introduced.
Technology Year

In 1963, the communication

Satellite was introduced.

In 1969, the first Internet known

as ARPANET was introduced.
LESSON 2
EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS

In the early years, before the computer was invented, there are several
inventions of counting machines.

Year Creator Machines

200
BC

CHINESE ABACUS

500
BC

EGYPTIAN ABACUS

1620

JOHN NAPIER NAPIER'S BONES

1653

BLAISE PASCAL PASCALINE

Year Creator Machines

1673

LEIBNIZ'S RECHNER
GOTTFRIED WILHELM VON
LEIBNIZ

1801

JOSEPH MARIE JACQUARD WEAVING LOOM

1823

MECHANICAL CALCULATOR
CHARLES BABBAGE MACHINE

1941

HARVARD UNIVERSITY
MARK 1
COMPUTER GENERATIONS FIRST

GENERATION (1940-1956)

The first generation of computer were huge, slow, expensive and often unreliable.
In 1946, two Americans, Presper Eckert and Willian Mauchly build the ENIAC
(Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer). It use vacuum tube instead of
mechanical switches of the MARK 1.

Vacuum tube

MARK 1

Presper Eckert Willian Mauchly

In 1951, Eckert and Mauchly build the

UNIVAC, which could calculate at the rate of
10,000 addition per seconds.

UNIVAC – UNIVERSAL AUTOMATIC COMPUTER

Hardware Technology
New invention of hardware were needed with the new computer technology.

Technology Details
The vacuum tube was an extremely
VACUUM TUBE important step of the advancement of
computers. In a computer, a vacuum tube
which is an electronic tube about the size of
light bulbs, was used as the internal
computer components. Thousands of them
were used.
PUNCHED CARD Punched card was used to store data.

MAGNETIC TAPE Magnetic tape was introduced in 1957. It

was a faster and a more compact method of
storing data. Using magnetic tape became
more reliable and cost-effective.
PROBLEMS

 the vacuum tubes generated a great deal of heat causing many

problems
 in temperature regulation and climate control
 the tubes also burnt out frequently
 people operating the computer did not know that the problem was in the
programming
 machine
 the second generation computer scientists invented something new due
to lots of problem created by vacuum tubes

SECOND GENERATION (1956-1963)

The famous computer scientists during the second generation era were:

The creation of transistor spark the production of a wave of second generation

computer. Transistor was small devices use to transfer electronic signals across
a resister. Transistors had many advantages compared to other hardware
technology.

 transistors were smaller than vacuum tubes

  they needed no warm up time
  consumed less energy
  generated much less heat
 faster and more reliable

THIRD GENERATION (1964-1971)

In the third generation era, the IBM 370 series were

introduced in 1964. It came in several models and sizes. It
was used for business and scientific programs. Other
computer models introduced were CDC 7600 and B2500.

The development of integrated circuit (IC), signal the

beginning of the third generation computers. Silicone
chips were manufactured in 1961 at the Silicone Valley.
Then came the integrated circuit technology, which had
reduced the size and cost of computers.

It is a complete electronic circuit on a small chip of silicone. Which is also known as

semi-conductor. Other than that, the Magnetic Core Memory was replaced by a
device called the microchip. Also the first 256 bit RAM was introduced and it was the
basis for development of 1K bit RAM.

Advantages
A new concept in this generation was that of a family of computer which
allowed computer to be upgraded and expanded as necessary.

 Silicone chips were reliable, compact

 and cheaper.
 Sold hardware and software separately
 which created the software industry.
 customer service industry flourished
(reservation and credit checks)

FOURTH GENERATION (1971-PRESENT)

It took only 55 years for the 4 generations to evolve. The

growth of the computer industry developed technologies
of computer inventions. There are many types of
computer models such as:
 Apple
 Macintosh
 IBM

 DELL

 ACER

In 1971 Intel created the first microprocessor. In 1976, Steve Jobs built the first
Apple computer. Then, in 1981, IBM introduced its first personal computer.

Steve Jobs Bill Gates Micheal Dell

During the fourth generation, hardware technology such as silicone chips,
microprocessor and storage devices were invented. A microprocessor is a
specialized chip which is developed for computer memory and logic.

Microprocessor Silicone Chips

The microprocessor is a large-scale integrated circuit which contained thousands of
transistors. The transistors on this one chip are capable of performing all of the
functions of a computer's central processing unit.

Advantages
 Computers became 100 times smaller than ENIAC (Electronic
Numerical Integrator and Computer) the first computer
 Gain
 in speed, reliability and storage capacity
 Personal and software industry boomed

FIFTH GENERATION (PRESENT & BEYOND)

The fifth generation computers are technologically

advance and are still being development to become
more efficient.

The inventions of new hardware technology in the fifth

generation have grown rapidly including many other
modern computer devices such as:
 silicone
 chips
 processor

 robotics

 virtual
 reality
 intelligent systems
 programs which translate languages
NEW ERA COMPUTER

After the fifth generation computer, the technology of computer has become
more advanced, modern and sophisticated. The latest invention in the era of
computers are:

 Super Computers
 Mainframe
 Computers
 Mini
 Computers
 Personal Computers
 Mobile Computers

In the new era of computers, expert system such as teleconferencing and speech-
recognition system have been invented as part of modern world communication
tools.

Super Computers

Mini Computers

Mainframe Computers

Mobile Computer

Personal Computers
LESSON 3
USAGE OF ICT IN DAILY LIFE

EDUCATION

Today, most schools and higher educational institutions have computers in the
classroom for teacher and students. In education, teachers, students, researchers
and school administrators benefits from the usage of ICT.

Teachers use computers to

research for teaching
materials, participate in online
forums and online conferences
as well as to aid their teaching.

Teachers

Students use the computers as

a reference tool. They use
computers to browse the
Internet to look for information.

Students
 Researchers use computers
to collect and process data.

Researchers

School administrators use

computers for administrative
purposes to make sure that the
entire operation runs smoothly.

School administrators

BANKING

The computer is the nerve Centre of the banking

system around the world. It functions to control the
entire banking system that also includes 'Electronic
Banking Services'.

Electronic banking provides 24 hour services.

The services include:

  Automated Teller Machine (ATM)

  Cheque Deposit
  Electronic Fund Transfer
  Direct Deposit
 Pay by phone system
 Personal computer banking/
internet banking

In the banking sector, customers, businessman and

bank administrator benefits from the usage of ICT.
 Customers can make any
transactions at the 24 hour service
centres or via online. These
services allow them to do
transaction at anytime they want.

Customers

Businessmen can save their time

by using the online services
offered by banks. They can
access company accounts for
loan applications, business
transactions and update on
their cash flow at any time.

Businessmen

Bank administrators can oversee

the entire banking activities such
as reconciliations, inter-branch
transactions (IBT), telegraphic
transfer and others by referring
to the banking system.

Bank administrators

INDUSTRY

Computers are used to facilitate production planning

and control systems, to support chain management
and to help in product design in the industrial sector.
In the industrial sector, workers, researchers and
administrator benefits from the usage of ICT.

Workers use machines that

are connected to computers to
operate. In some productions,
robots are used to take over
jobs that are dangerous to the
workers.

Workers
 Researchers use computers to
analyse and collect research
data for future reference.

Researchers

Administrators use computers

to oversee the entire operations
in the plant or factory to detect
specific errors or defects that
occurred in the process.

Administrators

E-COMMERCE

E-commerce helps in boosting the economy. It

makes buying and selling activities easier, more
efficient and faster. For this application, computers,
Internet and shared software are needed.

In the e-commerce sector, customers’, suppliers and employees benefits

from the usage of ICT.

Customers use computers to be

connected online with suppliers
to purchase products. This
method can save time and cost
as they do not have to go to
any outlets.

Customers
 Suppliers use computers to keep
track of their transactions. All
products are bar coded and can
be read by the computer
scanner to help in determining
prices and managing inventory.

Suppliers

Employees use computers and

telephones to communicate with
their customers for any enquiries.

The system helps employees

to get the latest updates on
inventory to be informed to
the customers.

Employees

OTHER SECTOR
LESSON 4
COMPUTERISED AND NON-COMPUTERISED SYSTEMS

COMPUTER SYSTEM

A system is an arrangement of elements that when it is

put together it becomes an organised and established
procedure. A system typically consists of components
connected together in order to facilitate the flow of
information, matter or energy.

A computer system consists of a set of hardware and software which

processes data in a meaningful way.

EDUCATION

 education
 is the science of teaching and learning of specific skills
 it also imparts knowledge, good judgement and wisdom

BANKING SYSTEM

BANKING BEFORE ICT

 banking was done manually by taking deposits
directly

 transactions can only be made during working
hours

 takes time to approve any loan applications

BANKING WITH ICT

 all transactions are done by computers
 transaction
 can be done at anytime and place
 online services, phone banking system, credit cards
are available
INDUSTRY

INDUSTRY BEFORE ICT

Production was slow because everything was done
manually and totally depended on human labour.

INDUSTRY WITH ICT

Computers and telecommunications industry became
very popular and profitable since production can be
increased through an all-day operation.

COMMERCE

Commerce is an activity of exchanging, buying and selling of commodities on a

large scale involving transportation from place to place.

COMMERCE BEFORE ICT

 Trading was made using the barter system and it was
then
 later developed into currency.
 Advertisement was in the form of word of mouth,
billboards
 and printed flyers.
 Trading globally was extremely slow, late and expensive.
Traders had to find ways to market local products in the
global market.

COMMERCE WITH ICT

E-commerce plays an important role in the economic scene.
It includes distribution, buying, selling and servicing
products that are done electronically.
LESSON 5
THE IMPACT OF ICT ON SOCIETY

FASTER COMMUNICATION SPEED

In the past, it took a long time for any news or messages
to be send. Now with the Internet, news or messages are
sent via e-mail to friends, business partners or to anyone
efficiently. With the capability of bandwidth, broadband and
connection speed on the Internet, any information can
travel fast and at an instant. It saves time and is
inexpensive.

LOWER COMMUNICATION COST

Using the Internet is cost-effective than the other modes of communication such
as telephone, mailing or courier service. It allows people to have access to large
amounts of data at a very low cost. With the Internet we do not have to pay for
any basic services provided by the Internet. Furthermore, the cost of connection
to the Internet is relatively cheap.

RELIABLE MODE OF COMMUNICATION

Computers are reliable. With the internet, information could be accessed and
retrieved from anywhere and at any time. This makes it a reliable mode of
communication. However, the input to the computer is contributed by humans. If
the data passed to the computer is faulty, the
result will be faulty as well. This is related to the term
GIGO.

GIGO is a short form for Garbage In Garbage Out. It refers

to the quality of output produced according to the input.
Normally bad input produces bad output.

EFFECTIVE SHARING OF INFORMATION

With the advancement of ICT, information can be shared by people
all around the world. People can share and exchange opinions,
news and information through discussion groups, mailing list and
forums on the Internet. This enable knowledge sharing which will
contribute to the development of knowledge based society.
PAPERLESS ENVIRONMENT

ICT technology has created the term paperless environment. This term means
information can be stored and retrieved through the digital medium instead of
paper. Online communication via emails, online chat and instant messaging also
helps in creating the paperless environment.

BORDERLESS COMMUNICATION

Internet offers fast information retrieval, interactivity, accessibility and versatility.

It has become a borderless sources for services and information. Through the
Internet, information and communication can be borderless.

SOCIAL PROBLEMS

There are some negative effects of ICT. It has created social problems in the
society. Nowadays, people tend to choose online communication rather than
having real time conversations. People tend to become more individualistic and
introvert.

Another negative effect of ICT is:

 fraud

 identity theft
 Pornography

 Hacking
This will result a moral decedent and generate threads to the society.
HEALTH PROBLEMS

A computer may harm users if they use it for long hours frequently. Computer
users are also exposed to bad posture, eyestrain, physical and mental stress.
In order to solve the health problems, an ergonomic environment can be
introduced. For example, an ergonomic chair can reduces back strain and a
screen filter is used to minimize eye strain.
LESSON 6
COMPUTER HARDWARE
HARDWARE
 The term hardware refers to the physical components of your computer such as the
system unit, mouse, keyboard, monitor etc.

WHAT IS A PERSONAL COMPUTER?

 IBM invented the PC (Personal Computer) way back in 1981. All PCs released since
then are in many ways compatible with the original design, though many extensions
have been made. The term PC compatible relates to PCs manufactured by companies
other than IBM which are compatible with the traditional PC specification. In the early
days, most PCs ran an operating system called DOS (Disk Operating System). These
days most PCs will be running a version of Microsoft Windows such as Microsoft Vista.

Capacity: Large hard disks combined with a large working memory (RAM)

Speed: Fast. Normally measured in GHz.

Costs: Getting cheaper by the day.

Typical Users: Home users, large and small office users. Education, Doctors. In fact
just about everyone needs to know how to operate a PC these days.
Apple computers
 The Apple Mac is a computer, but NOT a PC. It uses a different operating system, and
may require special versions of application programs (such as word- processors or
spreadsheets). Even the hardware add-ons have to be customised to some extent to be
able to be connected to a Mac. In the early days the thing which really distinguished the
Mac over the PC was the GUI (Graphical User Interface), or in plain English the way you
could use the mouse to drive the computer. In the early days of the PC, you really had
to be a bit of an expert to use and maintain your PC. Recently the differences between
the PC and the Mac have blurred, with Microsoft buying a stake in Apple.

Laptop & palmtop computers

 Laptop computers, as the name implies, are small portable computers which can run
on batteries as well as mains power. They use special screens, rather than the traditional
bulky VDUs (Visual Display Units), which allows for longer battery life as well as
portability. A newer term, “Notebooks”, simply indicates a VERY small laptop. These are
especially popular with salespersons on the move or people giving presentations. While
they tend to still be more expensive than an equivalent Desktop computer, they can now
match the power of a Desktop computer. Palmtops are even smaller computers which
can literally fit into the palm of your hand.

Capacity: Large hard disks combined with a large working memory (RAM) – Often less
powerful than for a PC of equivalent price.
Speed: Fast. Normally measured in GHz. Often speed specifications are less than for a
PC of equivalent price.
Costs: Components need to be much more compact, so there is a price overhead
when compared to a PC of equivalent power.
Typical Users: Business users, people on the move, educational users.
Features of handheld portable digital devices
 A range of small portable digital devices are now available including:
- Personal digital assistants (PDAs)
- Mobile (Cell) phones
- Smartphones
- Multimedia players

Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)

 These devices use a special pen, rather than a keyboard and can be used for storing
and retrieving information. Like most computer devices, many can connect to the
Internet. They are extremely compact.
 PDAs have many built-in features such as a calculator, a clock and a calendar.
 Many allow you to send and receive emails and even browse the web.
 PDAs can also be used for accessing the Internet, sending and receiving e-mails, video
recording, typewriting and word processing, use as an address book, making and
writing on spreadsheets, scanning bar codes, playing computer games, recording
survey responses, and Global Positioning System (GPS).
Newer PDAs also have both colour screens and audio capabilities, enabling them to be
used as mobile phones (smartphones), web browsers, or portable media players. Many
PD As can access the Internet, intranets or extranets via Wi-Fi, or Wireless Wide-Area
Networks (WWANs). Many PD As employ touch screen technology.

Capacity: Much smaller storage capacity compared to a PC.

Speed: Much less than a PC unless you pay alot extra.

Costs: In relative terms expensive when compared to a PC.

Typical Users: Mostly business users.

 Mobile phones (cell phones)
 A mobile phone or cell phone is used for mobile communication. As well a speech they
may be used for text messaging, emailing accessing the Web. Many also allow you to
send and receive pictures and video. Most mobile phones use a signal from a local
transmission tower and will not work when you are out of range or if the signal is
blocked by mountains, or even buildings.

Satellite phones use a signal coming from a satellite. They tend to be much more
expensive to purchase and use. While you should never be out of range, the satellite
signal may be blocked by tall buildings.

Media players
 Media players allow you to store digital music and video. A famous example is the
iPod from Apple, which lets you store your digital music which you can then listen
to at your leisure. Thousands of songs can be stored on these devices.
 You can also get devices with a built-in screen which will allow you to watch films
and video clips that you download to these devices.

WARNING: Remember that most music and films are covered by copyright and should
only be downloaded from legitimates sources.

Smartphones
 A smartphone is a mobile phone (cell phone) offering advanced computer like features.
Capabilities and standards vary from one manufacturer to another. Most smartphones
have some sort of operating system allowing you to connect to other devices and also
to install applications. Most smartphones allow you to send and receive emails and may
even allow you to browse the Web. Some have a personal organizer built into them
and some sort of contact management organiser. Some even have a miniature
computer-type keyboard built into them, while others have a touch screen. Some have
GPS positioning systems. Some smartphones allow you to read documents in Microsoft
Word or Adobe PDF format. Other features can include a built-in camera, the ability to
play music, display photos and video clips, media software for playing music, browsing
photos and viewing video clips.
PARTS OF A COMPUTER
 You should understand some of the basic elements that make up a computer
including:

- Central processing unit (CPU)

- Types of memory
- The hard disk
- Input and output devices

THE CPU
 The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is normally an Intel (or equivalent) and it is one
of the most important components within your computer. It determines how fast
your computer will run and the CPU speed is measured by its MHz or GHz speed.
Thus, a 2 GHz Pentium is much faster than say a 1 GHz Pentium CPU. It is the CPU
which performs all the calculations within the computer, when running programs
such as word-processors, spreadsheets and databases. The CPU contains following
elements:

Control Unit:
The control unit is responsible for controlling the sequencing and timing
of the other elements making up the CPU.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):

The ALU performs the mathematical calculations using data stored within the
CPU registers.

Registers:
The registers are memory storage areas within the CPU that hold the data
that is worked on by the ALU.

BUS:
The computer bus transports data between the memory and registers.
MEMORY (RAM)
 The RAM (Random Access Memory) within your computer is where the operating
system is loaded to when you switch on your computer and also where your
applications are copied to when you start an application, such as a word processor
or database program. When you create data, (e.g. letters and pictures), these are
initially created and held in RAM and then copied to disk when you save the data.
As a rule of thumb, the more RAM you have installed in your computer the better.
These days you will commonly find over 512 Megabytes of RAM installed.

ROM-BIOS
 The ROM-BIOS (Read Only Memory - Basic Input Output System) chip is a
special chip held on your computer's system (mother) board. It contains software
which is required to make your computer work with your operating system, for
instance it is responsible for copying your operating system into RAM when you
switch on your computer.
DISKS
 You use disks to store any data that you create. This can range from a memo
created within a word processor to a video file created using a video camera. There
are many different types of disk.

THE HARD (FIXED) DISK

 Hard disks are the main, large data storage areas within your computer. Hard disks
are used to store your operating system, your application programs (i.e. your word
processor, games etc.) and your data. They are much faster than CD/DVDs and can
also hold much more data. Hard disks are installed within the system unit of your
computer.

INPUT/OUTPUT PORTS
 The Input and Output ports are normally located at the back or on the side of your
computer. These include ports such as USB, serial, parallel, network and FireWire
ports. You plug cables into these ports to connect your computer to other devices,
such as printers, scanners and cameras.
Universal Serial Bus (Usb) Port
 The Universal Serial Bus is a relatively new item within the PC. You will see one or
more USB sockets at the back of the system unit, allowing you to plug in devices
designed for the USB. These devices include printers, scanners and digital cameras.
Memory sticks can also be plugged into a USB port allowing you to copy data to or
from your hard disk.

Serial Port
 The serial port is a socket located at the back of your computer which enables you
to connect items to the computer, such as a modem. They are commonly labelled
as COM1 or COM2.

Parallel Port
 The parallel port is a socket located at the back of your computer which enables you
to connect items to the computer, such as a printer. It is commonly labelled as
LPT1 or LPT2.

NOTE: The parallel port used to be the main way the computer connected to a
printer. These days you are more likely to use a USB cable to connect the
computer to a printer.

Network Port
 The network port allows you to plug a ‘network cable’ into your computer, which
then lets you communicate with other computers connected to your local network
or to other computers via the Internet.
FireWire Port
 FireWire is an interface from Apple Inc. that allows high data transfer between your
computer and a compatible device such as a digital camera. FireWire has largely
replaced earlier ways of transferring data, such as parallel or SCSI cables. There
are numerous versions of FireWire including fibre optic, coaxial and wireless
versions. Most multimedia computers will have FireWire ports built into them.
Firewire connectors usually look like this:

COMPUTER PERFORMANCE
Factors affecting computer performance
 There are a wide range of factors that can affect the performance of your computer.
These include CPU speed, RAM size, type of graphics card processor and memory
plus the number of applications running. It is important to realise that it is not just
the speed of the CPU that affect the overall performance of your computer. There
is no point in having a very fast CPU if the other parts of a computer may slow down
the real world performance.

CPU Clock speed

 The computer clock speed governs how fast the CPU will run. The higher the clock
speed the faster the computer will work for you. The clock speed is given in
megahertz (MH z). The higher the MHz speed the faster the computer.

RAM size
 As a rule the more memory you have the faster the PC will appear to operate.
Windows also uses the hard disk a lot, so logically the faster the hard disk can
operate then again the faster the PC will appear to run.

Hard disk speed and storage

 Hard disks are also measured by their speed, defined by the disk access time, which
is measured in milliseconds. The smaller this access time the faster the hard disk
will store or retrieve data. The data storage capacity of hard disks continues to
increase as new products are released. The disk storage capacity is measured in
Gigabytes (GBytes). 1 GByte is equivalent to 1024 Mbytes.
Free hard disk space
 To get the most out of your Windows based PC, you not only need a fast hard disk
but also a large hard disk with plenty of "spare space". This is due to the fact
Windows is constantly moving data between the hard disk and RAM (Random
Access Memory). Microsoft Windows will create many so-called “temporary files”
which it uses for managing your programs. In fact, if you have very little free hard
disk space you may find that Microsoft Windows will not be able to run your
programs at all.

De-fragmenting files
 If you are running Windows you may find that if you click on the Start menu,
select Programs, and then select the Accessories / System tools group, there
is a de-fragmentation program. Running this periodically may noticeably speed up
the operation of your PC. When you use a PC, over a period of time the files get
broken up into separate pieces which are spread all over the hard disk. De-
fragmentation means taking all the broken up pieces and joining them back
together again.

Multitasking considerations
 Windows is a multitasking system, which means that it can run more than one
program at a time. However the more programs which are running at the same
time, the slower each one will run. To some extent this slowing effect depends on
what each program is doing. Editing a large high definition video for instance can
take up a lot of CPU time.

CPU speeds
 The speed (operating frequency) of the CPU is measured in megahertz (MH z) or
gigahertz (GH z). The higher the value the faster the CPU will operate. The original
IBM PC released way back in 1981 ran at 4.77 MHz whereas modern PCs can run
at over 4000 MHz, which gives you an idea of how far things have progressed.
 1 MHz means that the device will run at one million cycles per second. 1 GHz is a
thousand times faster, so that 1 GHz = 1000 MH z.

MEMORY AND STORAGE

WHAT IS COMPUTER MEMORY?
 You can store data on your hard disk, while data which is being processed is
stored in RAM (Random Access Memory). Data which is stored on a hard disk can
be permanent, while data in RAM is only temporary. Normally when people talk
about memory in relation to a PC, they are talking about RAM.

RAM
 Random Access Memory (RAM) is the main 'working' memory used by the
computer. When the operating system loads from disk when you first switch on the
computer, it is copied into RAM. The original IBM PC could only use up to 640 KB of
memory (just over half a megabyte), whereas a modern computer can effectively
house as much RAM as you can afford to buy. Commonly modern computers are
supplied with over 128 MB of RAM. As a rough rule, a Microsoft Windows based
computer will operate faster if you install more RAM. When adverts refer to a
computer having 128 Mbytes of memory, it is this RAM which they are talking about.
Data and programs stored in RAM are volatile (i.e. the information is lost when you
 switch off the computer).

ROM
 Read Only Memory (ROM) as the name suggests is a special type of memory chip
which holds software which can be read but not written to. A good example is the
ROM-BIOS chip, which contains read-only software. Often network cards and video
cards also contain ROM chips.

ROM-BIOS
 The 'Read Only Memory Basic Input Output System' chip is a chip located on the
computer's system (mother) board, which contains software. This software
performs a variety of tasks. When you first switch on the computer the ROM-BIOS
software performs a self-diagnostic to check that the computer is working OK. This
software then loads your operating system from the disk into the RAM.

VIDEO (GRAPHICS) MEMORY

 The picture which you see on your screen is a form of data and this data has to be
stored somewhere. The on-screen pictures are held in special memory chips called
video memory chips; these chips are usually located on the video card. A modern
computer will be supplied with several Megabytes of video memory.

MEASUREMENT OF STORAGE CAPACITY

 It is important that you understand a little about the measurements used to define
storage capacities:
Bit:
Computer are digital. This means they work by processing ones and zeros. The
basic one or zeros is called a bit of information.

Byte:
There are eight bits in a Byte.

KB - Kilobyte:
There are approximately a thousand bytes in a KB (also called a KByte)

MB - Megabyte:
There are approximately a million bytes in a MB (also called a MByte)

GB - Gigabyte:
There are approximately a thousand, million bytes in a GB (also called a GByte)

TB - Terabyte:
There are approximately a million, million bytes in a TB (also called a TByte).

TYPES OF STORAGE MEDIA

 These days there are a range of storage media to choose from including CDs, DVDs,
USB flash drives, memory cards, internal hard disks, external hard disks, network
drives and on-line file storage. Some are more suitable than others for a particular
job, for instance a flash drive is great for quickly transferring relative small amounts
of data from one computer to another.
INTERNAL HARD DISKS
 All PCs are supplied with an internal hard disk. This is where the operating
system (such as Windows) is stored. It is also were you store your data. When

you install new applications, they are copied from CD or DVD to your internal hard
disk.

EXTERNAL HARD DISKS

 As the name suggests these are secondary hard disks that you can plug into your
computer. They are normally connected via a USB cable. They are available in
a range of speeds and storage capacities and are an ideal way to back up your data,
such as photos or movies.

CDs
 Most computers are now supplied with a CD-ROM (Compact Disc - Read Only
Memory) drive. CD-ROM discs look exactly like music CDs but contain computer
data instead of music. The advantage of a CD-ROM is that it can hold a vast amount
of data (equivalent to the storage capacity of over 450 floppy disks). The other big
advantage of CD-ROMs is that they are interchangeable. This means that you can
own a range of different CD-ROMs and choose which one to insert into your CD-
ROM drive.

DVDs
 Short for "Digital Versatile Disk”. Similar to CD-ROM drives but allows you to use
DVD disks, which contain vastly more information than a traditional CD-ROM disk.
These also transfer the data from the disk to the computer far faster, allowing you
to watch movies on your computer screen. A CD-ROM can store 650 MB of data,
while a single-layer, single-sided DVD can store over 4 GB of data.

RECORDABLE CD & DVD DRIVES

 CD-ROMs are read-only devices, but increasingly people are purchasing a special
type of CD drive unit which allows you to record data, music or video to your own
CDs. These devices require the purchase of special CDs to which you can write,
 called CD-R (Compact Disc – Recordable).

USB FLASH DRIVES (MEMORY STICKS)

 Flash drives plug into the USB port and when viewed via the Windows Explorer, look
just like any other drive. They are supplied in a range of sizes with the 1 GB devices
being a very cheap way of transferring relatively small amounts of data between
computers.

MEMORY CARDS
 A memory card (also called a flash memory card) is a card containing memory chips
that is often used in devices such as digital cameras, telephones, music players,
video game consoles, GPS system and similar devices where there is a need to store
data in a compact from, often using a battery power source. There are a number of
different types of memory cards with different storage capacities. Many new PCs
have built-in slots for different types of memory cards.

NETWORK DRIVES AND ON-LINE FILE STORAGE

 Within an office it is normal that the computers are connected together via a
network. This allows you to store your data centrally, on a network server. This
network server should be backed-up by the IT support staff on a daily basis. This
means that your data is safely backed up for you.
 Alternatively you may create and store your data on your own PC or laptop and
periodically copy it across the network to be stored safely on a central network
server. In many companies network software automatically backs up selected
folder on each computer to the central server.
FLOPPY DISKS (DISKETTES)
 Floppy disks are also known as diskettes. They are very slow compared to hard
disks or CD-ROMs, and hold relatively small amounts of data (1.44 Mbytes).
Sometimes people will backup (i.e. copy) important data from their hard disk to
floppy disks. However, as diskettes are notoriously unreliable this is not the best
way of backing up valuable data (but is better than nothing). Modern computers
are not normally supplied with this type of drive. Floppy disks have almost entirely
been replaced by CD or DVD disks.

INPUT DEVICES
 Input devices allow you to input information to the computer and include
things such as the keyboard and mouse.

KEYBOARD
 The keyboard allows you to type information into the computer. It has evolved over
the years. The keyboard is built into laptop computers but is a separate item if used
with a Desktop computer. They can be connected via cables or may be wireless.

MOUSE
 When using an operating system, such as Microsoft Windows, you use the mouse
to select drop down menus, to point and click on items, to select items and to drag
and drop items from one place to another.

SCANNERS
 A scanner allows you to scan printed material and convert it into a file format which
may be used within the PC. You can scan pictures and then manipulate these inside
the PC using a graphics application of your choice. In addition, you can scan printed
 text and convert this not just to a picture of the text but also to, actual text which
can be manipulated and edited as text within your word-processor. There are a
number of specialist programs, generically called OCR (Optical Character
Recognition) programs which are specifically designed for converting printed text
into editable text within your applications.

TRACKER BALLS
 A tracker ball is an alternative to the traditional mouse and favoured by graphic
designers. Tracker balls often give much finer control over the movement of the
items on the screen. They may take a while to get used to if you are used to the
traditional mouse, but offer a lot in terms of added flexibility.

TOUCH PADS
 A touch pad is a desktop device and responds to pressure. Used in conjunction with
a special pen they can be used by graphic artists wishing to create original, digital
artwork.

JOYSTICKS
 Many games require a joystick for the proper playing of the game. There are many
different types, the more sophisticated respond to movement in 3 axis directions,
as well as having a number of configurable buttons. Like most things in life you get
what you pay for with joysticks and it is worth investing in a good, strongly
constructed model, especially bearing in mind that children will hammer these
devices whilst playing games.

WEB CAMS
 Ever since it was invented, the Web has become increasingly interactive. You can
now use a small digital movie camera (a Web cam) mounted on the PC monitor to
allow two-way communication involving not just text communication but sound and
video communication as well. While not yet considered a standard piece of PC kit,
it is only a matter of time …
DIGITAL CAMERAS
 A digital camera can be used in the same way a traditional camera can, but instead
of storing images on rolls of film which require developing, the images are stored
digitally in memory housed within the camera. These pictures can easily be
transferred to your computer and then manipulated within any graphics programs
which you have installed on your computer. Currently they are limited by the quality
of the image recorded and the number of pictures which you may store within the
camera.

MICROPHONES
 Early voice recognition systems offered very poor results, due to the limitations of
the software combined with hardware limitations. It takes an awful lot of CPU
processing power to convert the spoken word into text which appears on the screen.
Things are changing rapidly however and recent systems allow you to talk to a PC
and see text appear on the screen. Most of these systems require an initial training
period, where you train the software to respond to your particular voice. Whilst still
not perfect this is a key technology of the future.

OUTPUT DEVICES
 Includes items such as screens (monitors), printers, speakers and headphones.

TRADITIONAL COMPUTER MONITOR

 An output device. The original computer monitors were TV type screens on which
you viewed your programs. They were supplied in different sizes, common sizes
range from 15" to 21" screens. You should be aware that poor quality or badly
maintained monitors could harm your eyesight.
FLAT SCREEN COMPUTER SCREENS
 Traditional computer monitors are based on the same sort of technology which is
used within a television screen.
More recently, flat screen computer screens have become available. These take up
a lot less room on a desk and use less energy than the traditional, more bulky
monitors.

 You should be aware that often if you specify a screen of a certain size, say a 17-
inch screen, this is the size measured diagonally, not horizontally across the screen.
If you are upgrading you should also ask for the "visible viewing area" of the screen.

PROJECTION DEVICES
 These are projection devices which can be attached to your computer and are useful
for displaying presentations to a group of people. They are best used in combination
with presentation programs, such as Microsoft PowerPoint. They are used within
education and are also very popular for sales presentations. The price of these
devices has dropped dramatically recently. When purchasing one of these devices
the two things to look out for are the resolution (go for a minimum of XGA) and the
brightness of the lamp (the brighter the better). Other factors to be aware of are
the quietness (or otherwise) of the device, as well as the cost of replacement bulbs.

SPEAKERS AND HEADPHONES

 Most computers are sold with the capability to add a pair of speakers to your system
unit. In fact, in some cases, the computer screen may have speakers built directly
into the unit. This enhances the value of educational and presentation products and
can now be considered a standard PC component.
 Most computers allow you to plug headphones into one of the computer sockets.
This is useful as the sound will then not annoy others in the room.
SPEECH SYNTHESIZERS
 A recent development is the ability not only to display text on a monitor but also
to read the text to you. Thus, you could receive a text email from a colleague and
the system could read that email to you. This is of enormous benefit to the visually
impaired when using a computer. On the flip side, it is now possible to use a
microphone to talk to the computer and for the computer to directly convert the
spoken word into text which will be displayed within say your word-processor.
Whilst these systems are far from foolproof they are getting better as more
advanced software is being made available.

PRINTERS
 Most data is printed once you have created it and there are a vast number of
different printers available to accomplish this. Most common are ink jet and laser
printers both of which can now produce coloured output (at a cost).

DIFFERENT TYPES OF PRINTER

 There are many different types of printers. In large organizations’, laser printers
are most commonly used because they can print very fast and give a very high
quality output. In most organizations’, the printers are connected to the computers
via a network. This means that each person with a computer does not require his
or her own printer. Each computer connected to the network can print using a
particular shared printer.
 When you buy a printer, one of the things the salesperson will not necessarily stress
is how much it will cost to keep that printer running. Laser printers do not use ink;
they use something called toner which is normally supplied in a sealed unit called a
toner cartridge. Each toner cartridge will allow you to print a certain amount of
pages and when the toner is used up it needs to be replaced. In some cases the
costs of these toner cartridges is very high. Ink jet printers can work out even more
expensive to run.
LASER PRINTERS
 Laser printers produce high print quality at high speed. They are called "laser
printers" due to the fact that they contain a small laser within them. There is a wide
range of laser printer manufacturers and one buzzword to be aware of is Postscript,
a type of printer which is designed to give very high quality reproduction of pictures.

COLOUR LASER PRINTERS

 Originally, most laser printers would only print in black and white (mono). More
recently colour laser printers have dropped in price and are entering wide spread
use. While many of these produce excellent results, you should be aware of the
fact that the "price per page", especially if you are using a lot of colour on a page
can be very high compared to the cost of printing in black and white.

INKJET PRINTERS
 Inkjet printers work by using tiny jets to spray ink onto the paper. Inkjet printers
are very quiet in operation and produce print quality comparable to that of laser
printers, though laser printers still have the edge in terms of speed. Inkjet printers
are ideal for low volume printing where high quality print is required and speed is
not a high priority, e.g. printing letters in a small office or in the home.

DOT MATRIX PRINTERS

 Dot matrix printers work by firing a row of pins through an ink ribbon onto the
paper. The more pins the print head has the higher the quality of the print, most
modern dot matrix printers have 24 pins. Unfortunately, dot matrix printers can
generate a lot of noise and do not produce a very high quality of print, especially
when printing graphics. As a result, the inkjet printer has now largely replaced the
dot matrix printer. Dot matrix printers are used for high volume / low quality
printing, e.g. printing company pay slips.
INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES

Some devices are both input and output devices.

 A modem can be used for downloading information from web sites and receiving
emails. It can also be used for uploading and sending emails. A touch screen can
display a menu system (output device), and accept input when people touch the
menus displayed on the screen.
LESSON 7
COMPUTER SOFTWARE
WHAT IS SOFTWARE?
 The software is the collection of instructions which makes the computer work. For
instance, when you type in words via the keyboard, the software is responsible for
displaying the correct letters, in the correct place on the screen. Software is held either
on your computer’s hard disk, CD-ROM, DVD or on a diskette (floppy disk) and is
loaded (i.e. copied) from the disk into the computers RAM (Random Access Memory),
as and when required.

WHAT IS AN OPERATING SYSTEM?

 The operating system is a special type of program which loads automatically when you
start your computer. The operating system allows you to use the advanced features of
a modern computer without having to learn all the details of how the hardware works.
There are a number of different types of operating system in common use. The IBM PC
(Personal Computer) was introduced way back in 1981 and was originally supplied with
an operating system called DOS (Disk Operating System). This operating system
was very basic, and you had to be a bit of a computer expert just to understand how
to use it. It was NOT user- friendly. Later on, Microsoft introduced Windows and this is
the operating system which is most widely used on PCs today. To complicate matters
further, there are a number of different types of Windows. Most people are today
running either Windows XP, Windows Vista Windows 7, 8, 8.1 or Windows 10.

 IBM produced an operating system called OS/2 but this was largely ignored and is only
used by a few companies.
 UNIX and Linux are other examples of operating systems which may be run on PCs.
 Other types of computers, such as those manufactured by Apple have a completely
different operating system.
EXAMPLES OF SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS
 An application program is the type of program which you use once the operating system
has been loaded. Examples include word-processing programs (for producing letters,
memos etc.), spreadsheets (for doing accounts and working with numbers), databases
(for organising large amounts of information), games programs and graphics programs
(for producing pictures, advertisements, manuals etc.).

 It is important that you recognise examples of application programs covering the

following areas:
- Word processing
- Spreadsheets
- Databases
- Presentations
- E-mailing
- Web browsing
- Photo editing
- Computer games

WORD PROCESSING APPLICATIONS

 A word processing program (such as Microsoft Word) allows you to produce letters,
memos, etc., easily. You can easily mail merge a list of names and addresses to
produce mass mailers, individually addressed to customers or subscribers.

SPREADSHEETS APPLICATIONS
 A spreadsheet program (such as Microsoft Excel) allows you to work out a Company’s
income, expenditure and then calculate the balance. It enables you to make 'what if'
type projections of how the company will fair in the future and to forecast how changes
in prices will affect profits.

DATABASE APPLICATIONS
 A database program (such as Microsoft Access) allows you to compile information and
then to search this information to extract just the information you require. For instance,
if you have a database of all the equipment housed within an office you can very simply
produce a report listing only the equipment above a certain value.

PRESENTATION APPLICATIONS
 A presentation program (such as Microsoft PowerPoint) allows you to produce
professional looking presentations, which can be printed out directly onto slides for use
with an overhead projector. Alternatively, you can display your presentations directly
on a computer screen or via a computerised projector.

E-MAILING APPLICATIONS
 There are many emailing programs available. As the name suggests you use these to
send and receive emails. Microsoft Outlook is supplied within Microsoft Office. Another
well know example is the Thunderbird email program.

WEB BROWSING APPLICATIONS

 Applications used to view and interact with the World Wide Web (WWW).
PHOTO EDITING APPLICATIONS
 These programs allow you to edit digital photos. You can adjust items such as the
picture brightness, contact and colour balance. You can remove defects such the red
eye effect often caused when using a flash. You can apply interesting special effects
and filters to visually enhance your photographs. Examples include Photoshop from
Adobe and Paint Shop Pro from Correl.

COMPUTER GAMES
 Computer games started off as simple bat and ball games and today have evolved into
an enormous worldwide business. There are many different types of games ranging
from the educational, to the ‘shoot them up’ variety. The level of graphical detail on
the screen gets better each year.

There are many different formats available for games. Some games can be played on
a standard computer, while others require a dedicated console such as a Sony
PlayStation.
Famous example include Doom (a shoot them up game) and Simms (a game where
you build your own little world within the computer).

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE OPERATING SYSTEM AND

APPLICATION PROGRAMS
 The operating system works closely with the hardware that you have installed within
your computer. It interprets the input via the mouse or keyboard and outputs data to
the screen.
 The application programs sit above the operating system, and make use of the
functionally built into the operating system. They are specific to a particular task. For
instance Microsoft Word is designed as a word processing program, while Microsoft
Excel is a spreadsheet program.

ACCESSIBILITY OPTIONS
 There are a range of options to improve computer accessibility. These cover:
- Voice recognition software
- Screen reader software
- Screen magnifier software
- On-screen keyboard.
 In addition many web sites are now written to be compatible with software designed
to increase accessibility.

VOICE RECOGNITION SOFTWARE

 Voice recognition software lets you talk to a computer and use simple commands or
sentences. These systems are easily confused by regional accents and background
noise, but are getting better each year as the software improves.
 This type of software is commonly used when phoning large organizations’, typically
banks. You may be requested to read your credit card number.
 The software at the other end of the phone will recognise the numbers that you tell it,
and put your call through to the correct person.
 Voice recognition software has obvious benefits as far as improving accessibility option
is concerned. If you are unable to use a keyboard then the ability to talk to a computer
offers tremendous opportunities, however we are a long way from the talking computes
found on Star Trek.
SCREEN READER SOFTWARE
 Screen reader software is designed for the visually impaired and tries to interpret the
contents of the computer screen and then communicate that information in different
formats, such as speech output, sound icons or as Braille output.
 Recent versions of Microsoft Windows are supplied with basic screen reader options.

The Windows XP Narrator options look like this:

 There are many rival commercial options available. Try searching the web for ‘screen
reader software’ for an idea of what is available.

SCREEN MAGNIFIER SOFTWARE

 This type of software magnifies the screen contents, making it easier to read for the
visually impaired. Microsoft Windows has basic screen magnifier software included.
 The options include the following:

ON-SCREEN KEYBOARD
 An on-screen keyboard is a representation of the physical keyboard on the screen. It
is designed for use by individuals would are not be able to use a physical keyboard.
 Windows has a basic on-screen keyboard option located within the Accessories
group.

It looks like this.

LESSON 8
COMPUTER ETHICS

ETHICS IN GENERAL
A guideline is needed to stop the current technology products from being exploited
for example replicating original CDs and selling them as pirated software, this
unethical behaviour can be controlled by the code of conducts.

Unethical refers to any code of conducts that are not conforming to

approved standards of social or professional behaviour.

Computer ethics is a system of moral standards or values used as a

guideline for computer users.

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS OF COMPUTER ETHICS

The United States Institute of Computer Ethics has come out with the Ten
Commandments of Computer Ethics. These principles consider the effective code
of conducts for the proper use of information technology. The Ten commandments
of computer ethics are:
1. You shall not use a computer to harm other people.
2. You shall not interfere with other people's computer work.
3. You shall not snoop around in other people's computer files.
4. You shall not use a computer to steal.
5. You shall not use a computer to bear false witness.
6. You shall not copy or use proprietary software for which you have not
paid.
7. You shall not use other people's computer resources without
authorisation or proper compensation.
8. You shall not appropriate other people's intellectual output.
9. You shall think about the social consequences of the program you are writing
or the system you are designing.
10. You shall always use a computer in ways that ensure consideration and
respect for your fellow humans.

GUIDELINES ON THE E-MAIL AND INTERNET USAGE

Some guidelines from the Department of Public Services of Malaysia:
 use only individual e-mail address to forward individual opinion
 keep the identity name and password a secret to avoid the misuse of
your
 e-mail without your knowledge
 e-mail must be active to promptly reply the necessary actions needed for
any matters
 ensure the total mail kept in the box is within the computer storage
capacity

 scan files regularly to avoid the transmission of virus from one computer
to another
 do not send e-mails that contain classified information which can
be used to tarnish other people or country
 choose a suitable time to search the Internet to save access time and cost
 beware of prohibited sites which could affect one's moral,
organisation
 or nation
 print only relevant documents that you think can be used in future to
save cost

UNETHICAL COMPUTER CODE OF CONDUCTS

With the advancement of ICT, it is easy for anyone to retrieve your information
from the Internet. You may not realise that when you fill a form on the
Internet, your information may be exposed and stolen.

Examples of unethical computer code of conducts include:

 modifying certain information on the Internet, affecting the accuracy of the

information

 selling information to other parties without the owner’s permission
 using information without authorization
 involvement
 in stealing software
 invasion of privacy

Intellectual property refers to any product of human intellect that is unique and
has value in the market place. This covers ideas, inventions, unique name,
computer program codes and many more.

ETHICAL COMPUTER CODE OF CONDUCTS

Examples of ethical computer code of conducts include:

 sending warning about viruses to other computer users

 asking permission before sending any business advertisements to others
 using information with authorization
LESSON 9
THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ETHICS AND LAW

DEFINITION OF ETHICS
In general, ethics is a moral philosophy where a
person makes a specific moral choice and sticks to it.
On the other hand, ethics in computing means moral
guidelines to refer to when using the computer and
computer networks. This includes the Internet.

DEFINITION OF LAW
Law is a legal system comprising of rules and principles that govern the
affairs of a community and controlled by a political authority.

Law differs from one country to another. In the era of

technology, computer law is needed to clarify goods or
actions that fall under the computer law. Computer law refers
to all areas in law that requires an understanding of computer
technology such as hardware, software and Internet.

Examples of laws of computing in Malaysia include the Malaysian

Communication and Multimedia Act, the Computer Crime Act 1997 and the
Telemedicine Act 1997.

WHY DO WE NEED ETHICS AND LAW IN COMPUTING?

 Respecting Ownership
 Respecting
 Privacy
 Respecting Property

RESPECTING OWNERSHIP
We must respect ownership by not stealing other people’s work either by
duplicating or distributing it. Duplicating and distributing copies of audio
tapes, video tapes and computer programs without permission and
authorisation from the individual or company that created the program are
immoral and illegal.

RESPECTING PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY

We should respect other people's privacy and confidentiality by refraining
ourselves from reading their mails or files without their permission. If we do so,
it is considered as violating an individual’s rights to privacy and confidentiality.
RESPECTING PROPERTY
Property here means ownership. Since an individual data and information are
considered as property, therefore, an act of tampering and changing electronic
information is considered as vandalism and disrespect for other people’s
property.

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN ETHICS AND LAW

Both ethics and law are complimentary to each other and are made:

 to guide user from misusing computers

 to create a healthy computer society, so that computers are used to
contribute
 to a better life
 to prevent any crime

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ETHICS AND LAWS

ETHICS
GUIDELINE As a guideline to computer users.
MORAL STANDARDS Ethical behaviour is judged by moral
Standards.
FREE TO FOLLOW Computer users are free to follow or
ignore the code of ethics.
NO PUNISHMENTS No punishment for anyone who
violates ethics.
UNIVERSALS Universal, can be applied anywhere,
all over the world.
PRODUCE ETHICAL COMPUTER To produce ethical computer users.
USERS
IMMORAL Not honouring computer ethics
means ignoring the moral elements
(immoral).

LAW
CONTROL As a rule to control computer users.
JUDICIAL STANDARDS Law is judged by judicial standards.
MUST FOLLOW Computer users must follow the
regulations and law.
PENALTIES, IMPRISONMENTS Penalties, imprisonments and other
AND OTHER PUNISHMENTS punishments for those who break the
law.
DEPENDS ON COUNTRY Depends on country and state where
the crime is committed.
PREVENT MISUSING OF COMPUTERS To prevent misuse of computers.
CRIME Not honouring the law means
committing a crime.
 UNETHICAL VS. LAW BREAKING CONDUCTS

Unethical:

 using the office computer to do personal things

  reading your friend’s e-mail without his or her permission
 Plagiarising and using materials from the Internet for your
class assignment without giving credit to the original author.

Law breaking:

 sending a computer virus via e-mail

 hacking into your school’s database to change your
 examination results.
 selling pirated software in a night market
 LESSON 10
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS

DEFINITION OF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

Intellectual Property refers to works created by inventors, authors and
artists. These works are unique and have value in the market place. In
our daily lives, we are surrounded by things that are protected by IP.
Your school bags, your shoes and even your socks are protected by
Intellectual Property rights. Nike, Bata or Adidas, for example, are all
protected by a group of legal rights.

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW

Intellectual Property laws cover ideas, inventions, literary creations, unique
names, business models, industrial processes, computer program codes
and more.

INVENTIONS PROTECTED BY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

LAWS
As businesses continue to expand globally, business owners must realise the
importance of getting professional advice on how to establish and safeguard
their intellectual property rights. These include:

 Trademarks
  Service marks
  Trade/company names
  Domain names
 Geographical indications
  Copyrights
 Patents

Example: Protected by property law.

 INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY PROTECTION
There are four types of Intellectual Property protection. They are patents
for invention, trademarks for brand identity, designs for product
appearance and copyright for material.

  Patents for inventions

 Trademarks for brand identity
  Design for product appearance
 Copyright for material

Patents for inventions

Utility, design or plant patents that protect inventions and improvements
to existing inventions

Trademarks for brand identity

Words, names, symbols, devices and images that represent products,
goods or services.

Design for product appearance

Literary and artistic material, music, films, sound recordings and
broadcasts, including software and multimedia.

Copyright for material

The features of, in particular, the lines, contours, colours, shape, texture
or material of the product itself or its ornamentation.
 LESSON 11
PRIVACY IN COMPUTER USAGE

WHAT IS PRIVACY?
Privacy in IT refers to data and information privacy. Data refers to a
collection of raw unprocessed facts, figures and symbols. Then, computer
is used to process data into information. In general, data include texts,
numbers, sounds, images and video.

Information privacy is described as the rights of individuals and companies

to deny or restrict the collection and use of information about them.

WAYS COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY THREATEN OUR PRIVACY

Every time you click on an advertisement or register a software product
online, your information is entered into a database. Computer technology
can also threaten privacy through spam. Do you know what spam is?
Spam is unsolicited e-mail messages, advertisements or newsgroup
postings sent to many recipients at once.

How does computer technology threaten the privacy of our data?

It is done through:
  Cookies
  Electronic profile
 Spyware

Computer technology threatens our privacy through electronic profiling.

For example, when we fill out a form such as a magazine subscription,
purchasing products or contest entry form on the Internet, this data is
kept in the database. It will include age, address, marital status and other
personal details.

Cookies
 are used to identify users by web casting,
 e-commerce and other web applications
 contain user information and are saved in
 the computer hard disk
 are used by some websites to store passwords
and track how regularly we visit a website,
that’s how we become potential targets for
 web advertisers
 enable web sites to collect information about
 your online activities and store them for future
use, then the collected details will be sold to any company
that requests for it.
 Electronic profile
 electronic profile is the combining of data in a
database that can be sold to the Internet by
the company to the interested parties.
 this database is in a form such as magazine
subscription or product warranty cards that
had been filled by online subscribers.
 the information in electronic profile includes
personal details such as your age, address and marital status.

Spyware
 refers to a program that collects user
information without the user’s knowledge.
  can enter computers, sneaking in like a virus.
  is a result of installing new programs.
 communicates information it collects to
some outside source while we are online.

WHY DO WE NEED PRIVACY?

We need privacy for anonymity. For example, the Internet creates an
elaborate trail of data detailing a person surfing on the Web because all
information is stored inside cookies. We do not want our trail to be detected.

We also need privacy for confidentiality. For example, online information

generated in the course of a business transaction is routinely used for
a variety of other purposes without the individual’s knowledge or consent.

We do not want our private lives and habits exposed to third parties.

CAN PRIVACY BE PROTECTED?

Privacy can be protected by:

(a) Privacy law

The privacy laws in Malaysia emphasises on the following:
  Security Services to review the security policy
  Security Management to protect the resources
  Security Mechanism to implement the required security services
 Security Objects, the important entities within the
system environment

(b) Utilities software
Example: anti-spam program, firewall, anti-spyware and antivirus.
LESSON 12
AUTHENTICATIONS

Authentication is a process where users verify that they are who they say
they are. The user who attempts to perform functions in a system is in
fact the user who is authorised to do so.

For Example : When you use an ATM card, the machine will verify the
validation of the card then the machine will request for a pin number.
This is where the authentication process takes place.

AUTHENTICATION

Identification
present what the user has (e.g. smart card)

Verification Not valid (F)

verify the Access
validity of denied
the ID

Valid (T)
Valid (T)
Identification
present what the user is (e.g. biometric)

False
Authentication
authenticate
who
the user is

True

Access granted
METHODS OF AUTHENTICATION
There are two commonly used authentication methods, which are
biometric device and callback system.

Biometric device is a device that translates

personal characteristics into a digital code
that is compared with a digital code stored in
the database.

Callback system refers to the checking system that authenticates the user.

BIOMETRIC DEVICES

Fingerprint Recognition
In order to prevent fake fingers from being used, many
biometrics fingerprint systems also measure blood flow,
or check for correctly arrayed ridges at the edges of the
fingers.

Facial Recognition
Facial recognition analyses the characteristics of an
individual's face images captured through a digital
video camera. Facial recognition is widely used, touted
as a fantastic system for recognising potential threats
(whether terrorists, scam artists, or known criminals).

Hand Geometry Scanning

Hand scanning involves the measurement and
analysis of the shape of one's hand.

Unlike fingerprints, the human hand isn't unique.

Individual hand features are not descriptive enough
for identification. It is possible to devise a method by
combining various individual features and measurements of fingers
and hands for verification purposes.
Iris Scanning
Iris scanning analyses the features that exist in the
coloured tissues surrounding the pupil which has
more than 200 points that can be used for
comparison, including rings, furrows and freckles.

The scans use a regular video camera and can be done from further away
than a retinal scan.It will work perfectly fine through glasses and in fact
has the ability to create an accurate enough measurement that it can be
used for identification purposes.

The accuracy of this method is excellent while the cost involved is high.

Retinal Scanning
Retinal biometrics involves the scanning of retina and
analysing the layer of blood vessels at the back of the
eye.

Retinal scanning involves using a low-intensity light

source and an optical coupler and can read the
patterns at a great level of accuracy.

Retina scanning requires the user to remove glasses, place their eye close
to the device, and focus on a certain point. Whether the accuracy can
outweigh the public discomfort is yet to be seen.

The accuracy in retinal scanning is very good and the cost involved is fair.

Voice Recognition
Voice recognition system compares a person’s
live speech with their stored voice pattern.

Voice recognition biometrics requires user to

speak into a microphone. What he speaks can be
his password or an access phrase.

Verification time is approximately 5 seconds. To prevent recorded voice

use, most voice recognition devices require the high and low frequencies
of the sound to match, which is difficult for many recording instruments to
recreate well. Also, some devices generate random number of sequences
for verification.

The accuracy in voice recognition is fair and the cost involved is

very reasonable.
Signature Verification System
Signature verification system uses special pen and
tablet. After pre-processing the signature, several
features are extracted.

The authenticity of a writer is determined by comparing

an input signature to a stored reference set (template) consisting of
three signatures.

The similarity between an input signature and the reference set is computed
using string matching and the similarity value is compared to a threshold.

The accuracy in signature verification system is fair and the cost involved
is excellent.

CALLBACK SYSTEM
The callback system is commonly used in the
bank operation and business transaction.

For example, when you book for the taxi service, the
operator will ask you to hang up and she will call you
back to confirm for the service required.

WHY IS AUTHENTICATION IMPORTANT?

Authentication is important in order to safeguard against the
unauthorised access and use.
 LESSON 13
VERIFICATIONS

Verification is the act of proving or disproving the correctness of a

system with respect to a certain formal specification.

IDENTIFICATION
present what the user has (e.g ATM card) Access Granted

Valid
VERIFICATION
verify the validity of the ID
Not Valid Access Denied

IDENTIFICATION
present what the user has (e.g pin number)

METHODS OF VERIFICATION
There are two methods commonly used in
verification, which are user identification
and processed object. User identification
refers to the process of validating the user.
Processed object refers to something the
user has such as identification card, security
token and cell phone.

USER IDENTIFICATION
The examples of validating process using the user identification are:
 Key in the user name to log-in to a system and the
system will verify whether the user is valid or
invalid user
 Show the exam slip to verify that you are the
 valid candidate for the exam.
 show a passport before departure.

PROCESSED OBJECT
The examples of validating process using the
processed object are:
 the policeman will check on the driver’s license
 to identify the valid driver
 employees have to swipe their security card to
 enter the building
 buy blouses at the mall using a credit card
LESSON 14
CONTROVERSIAL CONTENT

A controversial content is information that causes disagreement in opinions

and may cause the disruption of peace because different people or culture
will have different views about the contents.

ISSUES ON CONTROVERSIAL CONTENTS

The issues on controversial contents are always focusing on pornography
and slander. Malaysia considers pornography and slander as illegal.

Pornographic and slanderous activities can be in the forms

of plots and actions displayed on video games, controversial
rhythm or lyrics of music, controversial contents of books
and controversial issues on religion and philosophy.

Pornography Creative activity (writing or pictures or films etc.) of

no literary or artistic value other than to stimulate sexual desire.

Slander Oral communication of false statements injurious to a person's

reputation. A false and malicious statement or report about someone.

PORNOGRAPHY
What is pornography? Why pornography is considered “negative” content?

Both pictures are very cute pictures of innocent babies. Neither can
be considered pornographic by normal standards.

DEFINITION OF PORNOGRAPHY
The definition of pornography is any form of media or material (like books
or photographs) that depicts erotic behaviour and is intended to cause
sexual excitement.

Pornography tends to exploit men, women and children in a

distasteful manner.
 SLANDER
Slander is another example of controversial content.

Slander is a legal term for false and malicious

statement (meaning knowing that it is false, or
“reckless disregard” that it was false) about someone.

Examples :
You wrote an e-mail that a fellow classmate was having an affair with a
teacher, even though it was not true. You then sent it to five other friends.

Ahmad is a muslim. One day, he received a “spam” e-mail stating that his
favourite soda drink “Soda Moda” uses non-halal food colouring, but he
does not know if the source of the content is credible or true. He decides
to forward the e-mail to 50 of his friends.

Chin Wei spreads a rumour that a Government Minister is receiving

bribes from an enemy government.

IMPACTS ON MALAYSIAN SOCIETY

What can you conclude about the impact of controversial content on
the Malaysian society?

Pornography
 can lead to criminal acts such as exploitation of women and children
  can lead to sexual addiction or perversion
  can develop low moral value towards other men, women or children
 can erode good religious, cultural and social beliefs and behaviour

Slander
  can develop into a society that disregards honesty and truth
  can develop bad habit of spreading untruths and rumours
  can lead to unnecessary argument
 can cause people to have negative attitudes towards another person
 LESSON 15
THE PROCESS OF INTERNET FILTERING

INTERNET FILTERING
It is our responsibility to ensure that the teenagers are
protected from these corruptions of the mind by
filtering access to the Internet. Internet filtering is a
process that prevents or blocks access to certain
materials on the Internet.

It is our responsibility to ensure that the teenagers are protected from

these corruptions of the mind by filtering access to the Internet.

What is Internet filtering?

Internet filtering is a process that prevents or blocks access to certain
materials on the Internet. Filtering is most commonly used to prevent
children from accessing inappropriate material and to keep employees
productive on the Internet.

CONTROLLING ACCESS TO THE INTERNET

Controlling access to the internet by means of filtering software has
become a growing industry in Malaysia and elsewhere. Its use has
increase as the mandatory response to the current plague of society,
namely internet pornography, politically incorrect site, hatred, violence,
hate and in general anything viewed to be unpleasant or threatening.

The current preferred method of choice to limit access on the Internet is

to filter content either by:
  keyword blocking
  site blocking
 web rating systems

These methods require software to be installed at a client of server level.

KEYWORD BLOCKING
One of the strategies is by using the keyword
blocking method. This method uses a list of banned
words or objectionable terms.

As the page is downloading, the filter searches for any of

these words. If found, it will block the page completely,
stop downloading the page, block the banned words and even shut down
the browser.
 SITE BLOCKING
  software company maintains a list of ‘dubious Internet sites’
  the software prevents access to any sites on this list
  ‘denial lists’ regularly updated
 some software provides control over what categories of
 information you block
 Who decides what goes on the ‘denial list’ and what criteria are
 they using?
  can you keep track of the whole of the Internet?
 filters can use both site blocking and word blocking

WEB RATING SYSTEMS

Web sites are rated in terms of nudity, sex, violence and language. The
Recreational Software Advisory Council (RSACI) is responsible for the
rating of the websites on the content on the internet.

 ratings done either by the web page author or by

 the independent bureau.
 browsers set to only accept pages with certain levels of ratings.
 LESSON 16
CYBER LAW

WHAT IS CYBER LAW?

Cyber law refers to any laws relating to protecting the
Internet and other online communication technologies.

NEEDS FOR CYBER LAW

In the recent years, many concerns and issues were raised on the
integrity and security of information, legal status of online transactions,
privacy and confidentiality of information, intellectual property rights and
security of government data placed on the Internet.

Integrity and Security Security of

of Information Government Data
CYBER LAW

Legal Status of Online Intellectual Property

Transactions Rights

Privacy and Confidentially

of Information

These concerns and issues clearly indicate why cyber laws are needed
in online activities.

THE CYBER LAW ACTS IN MALAYSIA

The Malaysian Government has already passed several cyber laws to
control and reduce the Internet abuse.

These cyber laws include:

 Digital Signature Act 1997

  Computer Crimes Act 1997
  Telemedicine Act 1997
 Communications and Multimedia Act 1998

Beside these cyber laws, there are three other cyber laws being drafted.

 Private Data Protection Bill

  Electronic Government Activities Bill
 Electronic Transactions Bill
DIGITAL SIGNATURE ACT 1997
The Digital Signature Act 1997 secures electronic
communications especially on the Internet.

Digital Signature is an identity verification standard

that uses encryption techniques to protect against e-
mail forgery. The encrypted code consists of the user’s
name and a hash of all the parts of the message.

By attaching the digital signature, one can ensure that nobody

can eavesdrop, intercept or temper with transmitted data.

COMPUTER CRIMES ACT 1997

The Computer Crimes Act 1997 gives protection
against the misuses of computers and computer
criminal activities such as unauthorised use of
programmes, illegal transmission of data or
messages over computers and hacking and cracking
of computer systems and networks.

By implementing the Computer Crimes Act 1997, users can protect their
rights to privacy and build trust in the computer system. At the same
time, the government can have control at a certain level over cyberspace
to reduce cyber-crime activities.

TELEMEDICINE ACT 1997

The Telemedicine Act 1997 ensures that only qualified
medical practitioners can practice telemedicine and
that their patient's rights and interests are protected.

These act provides the future development and

delivery of healthcare in Malaysia.

COMMUNICATIONS AND MULTIMEDIA ACT 1998

The implementation of Communication and
Telecommunication Act 1998 ensures that information
is secure, the network is reliable and the service is
affordable all over Malaysia.

This Act also ensures high level of user's confidence

in the information and communication technology
industry.
 LESSON 17
COMPUTER CRIMES

COMPUTER CRIMES
A computer crime is defined as any criminal activity
that is related to the use of computers. These activities
include computer fraud, copyright infringement,
computer theft and computer attack.

COMPUTER FRAUD
Computer fraud is defined as having an intention to take advantage over
or causing loss to other people, mainly on monetary basis through the use
of computers.

There are many forms of computer fraud which include e-mail hoaxes,
programme fraud, investment schemes, sales promotions and claims
of expertise on certain fields.

Students need to be aware of other computer frauds

such as health frauds, scams and hacking. Students will
also most likely get false information while researching
information on the Internet.

COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT
Copyright infringement is defined as a violation of
the rights secured by a copyright. Copyright
infringement involves illegal copy or reproduction of
copyrights material by the black market group. The
open commercial sale of pirated item is also illegal.

With the current technology, the most perfect copy of the original copy
can be downloaded from the internet.

COMPUTER THEFT
Computer theft is defined as the unauthorised use of
another person’s property with the intention to deny
the owner the rightful possession of that property or
its use.

Examples of computer theft include:

 transfer of payments to the wrong accounts

  tap into data transmission lines on database at no cost
 divert goods to the wrong destination
 COMPUTER ATTACK
Computer attack may be defined as any activities taken
to disrupt the equipment of computer systems, change
processing control or corrupt stored data.

Computer attack can be in the forms of:

 physical attack that disrupt the computer facility or

 its transmission lines.
 an electronic attack that uses the power of
 electromagnetic energy to overload computer circuitry.
 a computer network attack that uses a malicious code to
exploit a weakness in software, or in the computer
security practices of a computer user
LESSON 18
COMPUTER SECURITY

DEFINITION OF COMPUTER SECURITY

Computer security means protecting our
computer systems and the information
they contain against unwanted access,
damage, destruction or modification.

We need to protect our computer from any

intruders such as hackers, crackers and
script kiddie.

We do not want strangers to read our e-mail, use our computer to attack
other systems, send forged e-mail from our computer, or examine personal
information stored on our computer such as financial statements.

TYPES OF COMPUTER SECURITY

Three types of computer security are:

a) hardware security
b) software security/data security
c) network security

a) HARDWARE SECURITY
Hardware security refers to security measures
used to protect the hardware specifically the
computer and its related documents.

The examples of security measures used to

protect the hardware include PC-locks, keyboard-
locks, smart cards and biometric devices.

b) SOFTWARE AND DATA SECURITY

Software and data security refers to the security
measures used to protect the software and the
loss of data files.

Examples of security measures used to protect the

software are activation code and serial number.

An example of security measure used to protect the

loss of data files is the disaster recovery plan method. The idea of this plan
is to store data, program and other important documents in a safe place
that will not be affected by any major destruction.
 c) NETWORK SECURITY
The transfer of data through network has become
a common practice and the need to implement
network security has become significant.

Network security refers to security measures used

to protect the network system. One example of
network security measures is firewall. With firewall, network resources
can be protected from the outsiders.

PERSONAL COMPUTER SECURITY CHECKLIST

In order to make sure our computers are secured, here are the
computer security checklist to follow.

 Do not eat, drink or smoke near the computer

 Do not place the computer near open windows or doors
 Do not subject the computer to extreme temperatures
 Clean the equipment regularly
 Place a cable lock on the computer
 Use a surge protector
 Store disks properly in a locked container
  Maintain backup copies of all files
 Stores copies of critical files off sites
 Scan a floppy disk before you open it
 Do not open any unknown email received
 LESSON 19
INTRODUCTION COMPUTER THREATS

The computer is a great tool to store important information. In certain

cases, the information is very vital that losing it will harm the computer
system.

Computer threats can come from many ways either from human or natural
disasters. For example, when someone is stealing your account information
from a trusted bank, this threat is considered as a human threat. However,
when your computer is soaked in heavy rain, then that is a natural disaster
threat.

MALICIOUS CODE
Malicious code is also known as a rogue program. It is
a threat to computing assets by causing undesired
effects in the programmer’s part. The effect is caused
by an agent, with the intention to cause damage.

The agent for malicious code is the writer of the code,

or any person who causes its distribution. There are
various kinds of malicious code. They include virus, Trojan horse, logic
door, trapdoor and backdoor, worm and many others.

a) VIRUS
 a program that can pass on the malicious
 code to other programs by modifying them
 attaches itself to the program, usually
 files with .doc, .xls and .exe extensions
  destroys or co-exists with the program
 can overtake the entire computing
system and spread to other systems
 b) TROJAN HORSE
  a program which can perform useful and unexpected action
 must be installed by users or intruders
before it can affect the system’s assets
 an example of a Trojan horse is the login
script that requests for users’ login ID
and password
 the information is then used for
malicious purposes

c) LOGIC BOMB
 logic bomb is a malicious code that goes
 off when a specific condition occurs.
 an example of a logic bomb is the
 time bomb
 it goes off and causes threats at
a specified time or date

e) TRAPDOOR OR BACKDOOR
 a feature in a program that allows
someone to access the program
with special privileges

f) WORM
 a program that copies and spreads
itself through a network

Primary Differences Between Worms And viruses

Worm Virus

Operates through the network Spreads through any medium

Spreads copies of itself as a Spreads copies of itself as a program

standalone program that attaches to other programs
HACKER
Hacking is a source of threat to security in computer.
It is defined as unauthorised access to the computer
system by a hacker.

Hackers are persons who learn about the computer

system in detail. They write program referred to as
hacks. Hackers may use a modem or cable to hack
the targeted computers.

NATURAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL THREATS

Computers are also threatened by natural or environmental disaster. Be it
at home, stores, offices and also automobiles. Examples of natural and
environmental disasters:
 Flood
 Fire
 Earthquakes, storms and tornados
 Excessive Heat
 Inadequate Power Supply
THEFT
Two types of computer theft:

1) Computer is used to steal money,

goods, information and resources.
2) Stealing of computer, especially notebook
and PDAs.

Three approaches to prevent theft:

1) prevent access by using locks, smart-card

or password
2) prevent portability by restricting the
hardware from being moved
3) detect and guard all exits and record
any hardware transported
LESSON 20
SECURITY MEASURES

Today, people rely on computers to create, store and manage critical

information. It is important that the computer and the data they store
are accessible and available when needed. It is also important that
users take measures to protect their computers and data from lost,
damage and misused.

Security measures mean the precautionary measures taken toward

possible danger or damage. There are 6 type of security measures.

1) DATA BACKUP
Data Backup is a program of file duplication.
Backups of data applications are necessary so that
they can be recovered in case of an emergency.

Depending on the importance of the information,

daily, weekly or biweekly backups from a hard
disk can be performed.
2) CRYPTOGRAPHY
Cryptography is a process of hiding information
by altering the actual information into different
representation, for example, an APA can be
written as I?

Almost all cryptosystems depend on a key such as a

password like the numbers or a phrase that can be used to encrypt
or decrypt a message.

The traditional type of cryptosystem used on a computer network is called

a symmetric secret key system.

3) ANTIVIRUS
An antivirus program protects a computer against
viruses by identifying and removing any computer
viruses found in the computer memory, on storage
media or incoming e-mail files.

An antivirus program scans for programs that

attempt to modify the boot program, the operating
system and other programs that normally are read from but not modified.

IDENTIFYING VIRUS
Two technique are used to identify the virus.

VIRUS SIGNATURE INOCULATING A PROGRAM FILE

Also called a virus definition is a The antivirus program records
specific pattern of the virus code. information such as the file size and file
creation date in a separate inoculation
file.

The antivirus program then uses this

information to detect if a virus tampers
with the data describing the inoculated
program file.

If an antivirus program identifies an infected file, it attempts to remove

its virus, worm or Trojan horse. If the antivirus program cannot remove
the infection, it often quarantines the infected file. Quarantine is a
separate area of a hard disk that holds the infected file until the infection
can be removed. This step ensures other files will not become infected.
Patents for inventions Utility, design or plant patents that protect
inventions and improvements to existing inventions
4) ANTI-SPYWARE
Spyware is a program placed on a computer without
the user’s knowledge. It secretly collects information
about the user.

The spyware program communicates information

to the outside source.

An anti-spyware application program sometime called tracking software or

a spybot is used to remove spyware.

Among of the popular anti-spyware programs are:

• Spybot Search and Destroy

• Ad-aware
• Spyware Blaster

5) FIREWALL
Firewall is a piece of hardware or software which
functions in a networked environment to prevent
some communications forbidden by the security
policy.

Firewall implement a security policy. It might permit

limited access from in or outside the network perimeters
or from certain user or for certain activities.
6) HUMAN ASPECTS OF SECURITY MEASURES

Human aspects refer to the user and also the

intruder of a computer system.

It is one of the hardest aspects to give protection to.

The most common problem is the lack of achieving

a good information security procedure.
LESSON 21
RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN SECURITY THREATS AND
SECURITY MEASURES

Security threats may come from in many forms. For example, when
someone is invading your account information from a trusted bank, this
act is considered as a security threat.

Security measures can be used to prevent this invader

from getting the account information. For example, the
bank can use a firewall to prevent unauthorised access
to its database.

SECURITY THREATS
Security threats may come from in many forms. For example, when
someone is invading your account information from a trusted bank, this
act is considered as a security threat.

Security measures can be used to prevent this invader from getting the
account information. For example, the bank can use a firewall to prevent
unauthorised access to its database.

MALICIOUS CODE THREATS VS. ANTIVIRUS AND ANTI-

SPYWARE
Security threats include virus, Trojan horse, logic bomb, trapdoor
and backdoor, and worm.

Antivirus and anti-spyware can be used to protect the computer from

the threats by:

 limiting connectivity
 allowing only authorised media for loading data and software
 enforcing mandatory access controls
 blocking the virus from the computer program

HACKING VS. FIREWALL

Hacking is an unauthorised access to the
computer system done by a hacker. We can use
firewall or cryptography to prevent the hacker
from accessing our computers.

A firewall permits limited access to unauthorised

users or any activities from the network environment. Cryptography is
a process of hiding information by changing the actual information into
different representation, for example, an APA can be written as 7&*.
 NATURAL DISASTER VS. DATA BACKUP
The natural and environmental disasters may include:
• flood
• fire
• earthquakes
• storms
• tornados

Natural disasters may threaten a computer’s hardware and software

easily. Computers are also sensitive to their operating environment such
as excessive heat or the inadequacy of power supply.

The backup system is needed to backup all data and applications in the
computer. With the backup system, data can be recovered in case of
an emergency.

THEFT VS. HUMAN ASPECTS

Computer theft can be of two kinds:

 can be used to steal money, goods,

 information and computer resources
 the actual stealing of computers,
especially notebooks and PDAs

Measures that can be taken to prevent theft:

 prevent access by using locks, smart-card or password

 prevent portability by restricting the hardware from being moved
 detect and guard all exits and record any hardware transported

BE SUSPICIOUS OF ALL RESULTS

There are many instances where non-programmers
develop applications which are not built with proper
understanding of software engineering practices.

Data produced by such applications may not be

correct and may risk corrupting data received
from other sources that are not compatible with
the application.
 LESSON 22
SECURITY PROCEDURES

Computers should have alarm systems to guard them from any attacks
such as viruses and data corruption. The alarm system is the security
measures that we take to ensure its safety.

DATA PROTECTION
We need to protect the data in the computer as it
may somehow get lost or corrupted due to some
viruses or mishap like fire, flood, lightning,
machine failures and even human errors.

There are a few ways to protect the information namely:

• make backup files
• detect the virus and clean the computer
• warn others on virus attacks

1) BACKUP FILES
Users can do backups of file systems by:
 keeping the duplicated files in external storage
such as in the floppy disk and thumb drive
 do backup frequently

2) DETECT VIRUS AND DO CLEANUP
A computer virus is able to affect and infect the way
the computer works. Viruses can be detected when
we run an antivirus program.We can also delete the
infected files and documents.

3) WARN OTHERS ON VIRUS ATTACK

We can warn others on virus attacks or new
viruses by sending e-mails to them.

DETECTING ILLEGAL ACCESS TO SYSTEMS

The computer system is able to detect any illegal access to the system by a
user who does not have any authorisation. Basically, a corporation will
simply use tcpwrappers and tripwire to detect any illegal access to their
system. User's access will be reviewed periodically by computer operations.
Ongoing internal audits will be made to ensure detection of violations of
security and unauthorised modifications to software and data.
TCPWRAPPERS

Tcpwrappers stop the attempted connection

examines its configuration files

will decide whether to accept or reject the request.

Tcpwrappers will control access at the application level, rather than at

the socket level like iptables and ipchains. The system will run
tcpwrappers to log access to ftp, tftp, rch, rlogin, rexec and telnet.

TRIPWIRE
Tripwire will detect and report on any changes in
the thousands of strategic system files.

The system will run tripwire to determine if

system files have changed.

PREVENTING ILLEGAL ACCESS TO SYSTEMS

Have any of you ever been to an airport? Do you know the do’s and
don’ts when you are at the airport?

There are things that cannot be taken inside the airplane. It is for
the purpose of security procedures.

It is the same as computer systems. It would not allow any

unauthorised users to simply access the system.

Ways to prevent illegal access to systems:

1. Run anlpassword to make password cracking difficult.

2. Run tcpwrappers to check if the name for an ip address can
be provided by DNC
3. Use a callback system to prevent unauthorised use of
stolen passwords.

PREVENTING ILLEGAL ROOT ACCESS

To prevent any illegal root access, we should have
Sudo, so that people can perform on some
machine without getting access to the entire root if
that is not required. In addition, with Sudo we did
not have to give out the root password.
Sudo stands for (Superuser do) and is a program in Unix, Linux and similar
operating systems such as Mac OS X that allows users to run programs in the
form of another user (normally in the form of the system's superuser).

Sudo allows a permitted user to execute a command as the superuser

or another user, as specified in the sudoers file.

PATCH
Patch supplies small updates to software,
provided that the source code is available.

Patch is a name of an UNIX utility. It applies a

script generated by the different program to a set
of files that allows changes from one file to be
directly applied to another file.

Resources are not enough to patch all security holes that we hear
about through the bugtraq list.

(Bugtraq is a full disclosure mailing list dedicated to the issues of computer

security. On-topic discussions are new discussions about vulnerabilities,
methods of exploitation and how to fix them. It is a high volume mailing list
and almost all new vulnerabilities are discussed there.)
LESSON 23
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS IN THE SOCIETY

The computer has change the society today as much as industrial

revolution changed society in 18th and 19th century. People interacts
directly with computer in education, finance, government, health care,
science, publishing, tourism, and industry.

Computers help them to do their work faster and more efficient by using
the software application that consist of special program for specific task.

SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS
Software applications are used for many reasons. Such as to enhance
the learning process, to help in business activities, to assist the graphics
and multimedia project and to facilitate communication.

Area Examples of software applications

Home and Integrated software, Personal finance, Legal, Tax
Education Preparation,
Clip Art/Image Gallery, Home Design/Landscaping and
Reference
Business Word Processing, Spreadsheet, Database, Presentation
Graphics, Personal Information Manager, Software Suite,
Project Management and Accounting
Graphics Computer-aided design (CAD), Desktop Publishing,
and Multimedia Paint/Image Editing, Video and Audio Editing, Multimedia
Authoring and Web Page Authoring
Communication E-mail, Web Browsers, Chat Rooms, Newsgroups, Instant
Messaging, Groupware and Video Conferencing
SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS PACKAGES
Software Application Examples of Popular Packages
Word Processing Microsoft Word and Lotus Word Pro
Spreadsheet Microsoft Excel and Lotus 1-2-3
Database Microsoft Access and Microsoft Visual FoxPro
Presentation Graphics Microsoft Power Point and Lotus Freelance
Graphics
Personal Information Microsoft Outlook and Palm Desktop
Manager
Software Suite Microsoft Office and Lotus SmartSuite
Project Management Microsoft Project and Corel CATALYST
Accounting MYOB and Peachtree Complete Accounting

HOME AND EDUCATION

Today, computers are used in schools, colleges and
universities in order to promote better education
by using computers. In the labs, students use
software packages to complete their assignments.
At the same time, some educators use the
computer-based training and web-based training
as replacements for lecture presentation.

Some of the software applications that are usually used in schools and
universities include Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, Macromedia
Flash, AutoCAD, Macromedia Dreamweaver and Macromedia Director.

COMPUTERS FOR HIGHER EDUCATION

Open Distance Learning (ODL) or online learning can
be implemented as computers are the main medium
in delivering the knowledge from one location to the
other locations.

This type of learning consists of online forum,

discussion, quizzes, test questions and many more.
The example of the Open Distance Learning institution is the
Open University of Malaysia (www.oum.edu.my).

BUSINESS
People use finance or accounting software to balance check books, pay
bills, track personal income and expenses, manage investments and
evaluate their financial plans.

Accounting software helps companies to record and report their financial

transactions. Examples of these software applications include MYOB,
Intuit Quick Books and Peachtree Complete Accounting.
COMPUTERS IN BANKING
In the banking sector, many financial institutions offer
online banking. People can access their financial records
from anywhere in the world. One example of online
banking is Maybank2u. (www.maybank2u.com)

Most of the packages on banking offer a variety of

online services. Which requires access to the web.
For example we can track our investment online, compare insurance
rates and do online banking.

INDUSTRY
By using the CAM system, computers record actual
labour, material, machine and computer time used
to manufacture a particular product.

Computers process this data and automatically

update inventory, production, payroll and accounting
records on the company’s network.

Examples of companies using this system are Proton

(www.proton.com.my) and Perodua (www.perodua.com.my).

GRAPHICS AND MULTIMEDIA

Computers are crucial in publishing especially in
the process of making works available to the
public. These works include magazines, books,
newspapers, music and film production.

Special software applications are used to assist graphic designers to develop

graphics, texts, photographs and composing songs.

Computer-Aided Design, Desktop Publishing, Paint/Image Editing, Video

and Audio Editing and Multimedia Authoring are among the popular
applications software.

COMMUNICATION
A government provides society with direction by
making and administering policies. Most government
offices or agencies have websites in order to provide
citizens with up-to-date or latest information.

Examples of software applications used for communication include e-mail,

web browsers, newsgroups, instant messaging and video conferencing.

People can access government websites to:

  check information on taxes (www.hasil.org.my)
 apply for permits and licenses (www.jpj.gov.my)
  check for MyKad (www.jpn.gov.my)
 pay parking tickets and check summons (www.jpj.gov.my)
 renew vehicle registration (www.jpj.gov.my)
 register online for IPTA/IPTS application (www.moe.gov.my)

COMPUTERS IN TOURISM
Today, people will go online to get all related
information about traveling. They can visit websites
to get information on destinations, prices, hotels,
flights and car rentals.
They can also purchase ticket online, all payments
can be made by using credit card.

COMPUTERS IN THE HEALTHCARE

In the medical field, computers are very important
in running the operations. Medical staffs use
computers for various purposes, namely:

 maintaining patient records

  monitoring patients’ vital sign
 assisting doctors, nurses and technicians with medical tests by
 using computer and computerised devices .
 using medical software to help with researching and diagnosing
health conditions.

Furthermore, computers and the internet are important sources for

people to get all information on medical, nutrition, fitness and other tips
from several available websites. The latest development in the medical
field is telemedicine. This technology is meant to help professional to
conduct live conference in separate locations around the globe.

SCIENCE
In the scientific world, computers are used in
all fields of science from biology to astronomy
to meteorology and others. These are things
that can be done by computers, namely:

  collecting, analyzing and modelling data

  serving as medium of communication with colleagues around the world
 contributing to new inventions or breakthrough in surgery,
 medicine and treatment
 imitating functions of the central nervous system, retina of the
 eye and others by tiny computers
 allowing a deaf person to listen through cochlear implant
 LESSON 24
COMPUTER USERS

People around the world rely on computers to do so many things. They

are from different backgrounds and are divided in 5 categories.

HOME USER
The computer is a basic necessity. Each home user
spends time on the computer for different reasons:
 business
 communication
 entertainment
 education

SMALL OFFICE/HOME OFFICE (SOHO) USER

SOHO users use computer to manage their
work effectively. They advertise their products
and services through websites. They also take
orders from the websites.

To save cost, SOHO connects one printer to many

employees to share. SOHO also have their own
basic business software such as word processing and spreadsheet software
to assist them in documents preparation and their financial tasks.

Small Office or Home Office users include:

 accounting firms, travel agencies, florists and many
 more These SOHO users:
 use desktop or notebook computers as well as telephone,
 handphones and PDAs in completing their tasks and communicating
 work in a small company or work as an individual at home

MOBILE USER
Network services are expanding to serve people
across the country and the world. More users are
becoming mobile users, who work on computer while
they are away from their home or main offices.

Mobile users:
 include real estate agents, insurance agents, meter readers
 and journalists
  use notebook computers, Internet-enabled PDAs or smart phones
 work with basic business software such as word processing
 and spreadsheet business software
 use presentation graphics software to create and deliver
 presentations to a large
 audience by connecting a mobile computer or device to a
video projector
 POWER USER
Power users require the capabilities of
workstation computers or other types powerful
computers. The software that is used by power
users is normally expensive because of their
specialize design. Their computer have network
access connections and internet connections.

Power users:
  include engineers, scientists, architects and virtual reality animators
 use computers with extremely fast processor, bigger storage
 and customised software
 work with mini computers that uses design to meet the
 organisational needs
 use software such as CAD, CAM and MATLAB Examples :

LARGE BUSINESS USER

Each employee or customer who uses computer in
large offices of company is a large business user.
Large business users use a large network of
computers. Use computers for basic business
activities such as preparing bills for millions of
customers, preparing payroll and managing
thousands of items in the inventory.

Large business users:

 bank, insurance company, hypermarket
  use computers for basic business activities
 have e-commerce that allow customers and vendors to interact and do
business transactions online therefore customers, vendors and other
interested parties can access information on the web
 have e-mail and web browsers to enable communications
 among employees, vendors and customers
 provide kiosks in public locations

Many employees of large business telecommute, which means they work

away from their offices workstation. They also have flexible schedule.
 LESSON 25
HOW TO CONDUCT A STUDY

There are five basic steps to follow when we do a study.

1. Get an overview of your topic.
2. Narrow down the topic and form some
specific questions related to it.
3. Find study materials related to the topic.
4. Evaluate study materials
5. Write out study papers and cite sources
Examples of the terms usually used in a study.
 compare: to examine similarities or differences
  define: to provide clear and concise meaning
 discuss: to examine in detail and present arguments for
 and against
 explain: to tell how things work or come to be the way they are

STEP 1 - GET AN OVERVIEW OF THE

TOPIC Familiarity
We need to familiarise ourselves with the topic before
we start doing a study. This will allow us to spend more
time developing a topic rather than using more time
learning about the topic.
We also have to get a broader picture of the subject by focusing on the
who, when, why, how and where questions.

Reference
Refer to a dictionary, encyclopedia, handbook, textbook, guide
or bibliography which can provide an overview of the topic.

Brainstorming
Spend some time brainstorming about the topic and write down
everything that we can think of about the topic.

STEP 2 - NARROW DOWN THE TOPIC

Narrow down the topic by reading the sources and
form some specific questions related to the topic. By
doing this, we may have awareness of the various
aspects that we may want to study. However we
need to understand that not all information is
reliable and we have to differentiate between facts
and opinions. Objective Information
 based on facts which can be verified
 presents results of original study
 often the view from experts in the subject area
 presents analysis of facts from all sides of issue
 Subjective Information
 based on what seems to be true
 reflects personal views or judgment
  often the views of individuals or groups
 may present an analysis of the facts from one side of an issue

STEP 3 - FIND STUDY MATERIALS

Study materials are available offline and online. We
can search for the information that we want in
books, journals, articles or other resource materials
found in the library and the Internet.

A list of all the books, journals and electronic

materials are available from the library. We can use
the online databases to find the most useful materials for our study.

STEP 4 - EVALUATE STUDY MATERIALS

All selected materials need to be evaluated in four aspects:

Aspects Sample
Relevance Does this publication help to answer the research
question?
If it does not find something else which does.
Reliability/Credibility is the information accurate?
has the information been peer reviewed?
are the authors and publishers reputable?
do they cite their credentials?
are there footnotes and a bibliography?
Perspective is this a primary source (presenting the author's own
research and ideas) or a secondary source
(summarising and discussing the research and ideas
of others)?
is the evident biased? Does the author attempt to
sway the reader's opinion?
Update how recent is the information published?
how recent has it been updated?
have there been new developments on the topic?
could the information you are using be misleading
because of the publication date?

STEP 5 - WRITING OUT THE STUDY PAPER

When all resources are gathered, start writing the paper and cite all the
sources of information used. These may include books, journals, articles
and magazines.
 LESSON 26
PRESENTING RESULT

A presentation should contain three well-defined sections, they are:

1. Introduction
 is at the beginning of the research
 includes the objectives of the research
 provides a clear statement on why the study was undertaken
 includes the limitations/assumptions and analytical techniques
2. Content
 consists of facts or arguments related to subject matter
  can be presented in an argument format or just as an overview
3. Conclusion
 is a review of content (not repetition of content)
 relates to the statement of objectives in the introduction
 should not introduce new issues
 should contain judgment or decision that has been reached

BASIC NEEDS OF A GOOD STUDY PAPER

There are a variety of ways to write out your research. However, there is a
set of basic requirements that must be followed when it comes to
submitting or presenting written presentation.

1. General Points
 number all pages
 use one side of A4 paper
 secure all pages with a staple (top left-hand corner)
 don’t use paper clips/pins or folders
 must be typed/word processed
 clear and easy to read print-out
  spell check your paper
 supply an estimated word count on the cover sheet
 include your name, course name and teacher’s name
2. Style
  double-spaced
 12 point minimum and 14 point maximum (with the exception
 of headings and footnotes)
 2 spaces after a full stop and 1 space following a comma,
 semi-colon or colon
 no abbreviation such as ‘e.g.’, ‘&’ or ‘etc.’ unless it is included
in a bracket. Write everything in full: ‘for example’, ‘that is’,
 ‘and so on’.
 numerals are used when the number is more than two words;
for tabulation; statistical discussion; sums of money;
addresses; dates; time; and page, chapter, volume numbers
 (for example, 2 June, 2000)
 consistency in style for example in writing out headings.
 3. Quote
  a direct quote must be placed in quotation
 block quotes are used if a direct quote is more than three
 lines long.
 if possible, paraphrase information in preference to using
 direct quotes.
 use quotes and paraphrasing to support argument
4. Clarity
 helps your readers understand your paper by organizing
 your paper well and don’t forget to insert the page numbers
 edit your work means reading through the paper several times
before submission and don’t just rely on the rough spelling and
grammar checks offered by your software.
5. Indicating your intentions
 in a complex study, the introduction of every section should
inform the reader what to expect in that section should
 contain judgment or decision that has been reached.
 the final paragraph in each section should tie the contents
 of that section together with a short conclusion.
 do not use too many words to say what you are going to do
and what you have done, keep to the necessary minimum

PREPARING A PRESENTATION
 LESSON 27
DELEGATION OF WORK

WHAT IS DELEGATION?
Delegation is the ability to assign tasks to others
with the authority, responsibility and accountability
to finish the tasks. This means it is not enough to
just give out orders to people but as a team leader
you also need to give specific instructions on what
to do. Tell your team members that they are
responsible for the task given to them and explain
to them what would happen to the project if they
failed to finish the task.

WHY DELEGATE TASKS?

Reasons why should I delegate tasks:

  will be able to save time

 help others to learn new skills, for example, how to negotiate
and cooperate
  utilise individual's additional strengths and expertise
  will be able to achieve large goals by dividing them into smaller tasks
 promotes creativity and diversity because others may have better
 way doing things
 cut down on tasks that can be done just as well by others

WHAT TO DELEGATE?
In order to complete a team project, you will be asked to use your skills in
research, presentation and task delegation. When working on a large
project you must know what task to delegate and how to assign them.
 1. Questioning
 Discover a problem
 Form a question to answer the problem
2. Planning
 Set out steps to find answers
 Select sources for possible answers
 Plan a basic draft for reporting
 Assign tasks to team members
 Agree on contingency plans
3. Gathering
 Go to agreed sources of information
  Collect information
4. Sorting
 Put similar information together
 Highlight valuable credible information
5. Synthesizing
 Discuss information with others
 Combine different information
6. Evaluating
 Discusses if the information gathered supports the answer
  Test out solution and decision that supports the answer
7. Reporting
 Write or type out the report
 Create an appropriate graphic or media
 Prepare for Q & A
 Prepare research

EXAMPLES OF TASK DELEGATION

Scenarios Good Techniques

“The head librarian wants us to finish the Set clear task deadline.
work by the end of the day, which is about 5
pm.”
“We have to sort out these books according Describe in detail the task
to their subjects. Remember to stick the objective.
correct book codes onto the books.”
“I will teach you the coding system.” Help team member to
perform task if needed.
“Chong, you take the science books and Delegate task to those
Indra, you take the art books.” qualified to do the job.
“I don’t know the coding system.” Inform limitation of abilities
or resource to other team
members.
“So, is everybody clear on what needs to Monitor task progress.
be done and when we should meet again
later.”
 LESSON 28
TOPICS FOR STUDY

In order to do the research, you need to follow this 5 steps.

STUDY TOPICS
Form into groups. Discuss with the team members and choose ONE (1)
of the study topics below:

1. Copyright and piracy from a moral and legal standpoint.

2. Credit card fraud on the Internet and its implications on the
industry/ economy/government.
3. Malaysian Cyber Law, Electronic Government Law.

The portfolio will contain:

1. Team journal
 study project introduction page
 minutes of team meetings
 initial project plan/calendar
  conflict resolution report
2. Initial framework for presentation
3. Final presentation
 The purpose of team journal is to keep track the progress of the project.

The team’s initial framework is where the team should do some basic study
on the topic and decide what should be included in the presentation.

The print out of the final presentation will be given to the teacher for
final grading.

SOURCE CITATION CARD

Source citation card is a note card in which you write the name of the
article, author, book name, page numbers, where you found it, why it
is good information and a short summary of the important points.

CREATING YOUR PRESENTATION

A presentation should:
  have at least 15 slides (not including the Title slide)
 have a Title slide
- introduce presentation
- include names of each member of the team
  use any design templates
 use at least 5 graphics (e.g.: clip art, photographs, word art
 and drawings)
 have some multimedia
- use animation on slides (be careful of very noisy ones!)
- use slide transitions
  use less text on the slides
- try presenting the information through pictures, graphs,
mind maps or any other form of visual (as oppose to textual)
presentation
  have a citation slide
- the last slide must list all of your citations and other
related resources (where you got the content)
- remember to give credit to others!
 THE FINAL PRESENTATION

Guidelines:
 each team member must speak during the presentation.
  each team will have 10 minutes to present.
 presenters should face the audience and not just read from the
screen or paper.

Tips:
  practice in advance.
 prepare notes on paper or cue cards to help you remember what
 you need to say during the presentation.
 remember to speak out clearly for people at the back to hear you.
 do not shout!