READING ASSIGNMENTS:

Information technology
(IT) refers to the use of computers, software, networks, and other digital
systems to store, process, transmit, and manage information.

Computers Technology vs. Communucations Technology

Computers Technology
refers to the study, design, development, and use of computer
systems to perform tasks such as processing data, storing
information, and running software.
It includes both hardware (physical components like CPUs and
memory) and software (programs and operating systems).
Communications Technology
deals with transmitting information electronically (e.g., internet,
telephones, satellites).
Together, they form ICT (Information and Communication
Technology).

Effect of IT to your job careers

Creates New Career Opportunities
IT has created entirely new fields like:
Software development
Cybersecurity
Data science
Cloud computing
Artificial intelligence (AI)
Example: Jobs like “App Developer” or “Cloud Engineer” didn’t
exist 20 years ago.
2. Improves Work Efficiency
IT tools help workers do tasks faster and more accurately.
Word processors, spreadsheets, and automation tools save time.
Communication tools (like Zoom, Teams) enable remote work.
Example: Accountants use software like Excel or QuickBooks
instead of doing calculations manually.
3. Enables Remote and Flexible Work
IT allows people to work from anywhere using the internet.
Many companies now offer remote jobs or hybrid work setups.
Example: A graphic designer can work for a U.S. company while
living in another country.

Net, Web, & Cyberspace

Net (Internet):
A global network that connects computers and allows them to share
data.
Example: Sending emails, using apps
Web (World Wide Web):
A system of websites and pages accessed through the Internet.
Example: Browsing Google or YouTube.
Cyberspace:
The virtual world where online communication and interaction
happen.
Example: Social media, online games.

Sizes of computer
Microcomputer
Smallest type (personal computers)
Example: Laptops, desktops
Minicomputer
 Mid-sized, more powerful than microcomputers
Example: Used in small businesses or labs
Mainframe Computer
Large and powerful, supports many users at once
Example: Used by banks, governments
Supercomputer
Fastest and most powerful
Example: Used for weather forecasting, scientific research

Fundamental key concepts about how a computer works

Input
Getting data into the computer.
Example: Keyboard, mouse, microphone
Processing
The computer's brain (CPU) processes the input.
It follows instructions (software) to do tasks.
Storage
Saving data temporarily or permanently.
Example: RAM (temporary), Hard Drive/SSD (permanent)

Output
Showing results to the user.
Example: Monitor displays, printer prints

Directions of Computer Development

Computer Development
Brief Explanation: Trends include faster chips (quantum computing), AI
integration, smaller devices (wearables), and improved energy efficiency.

Directions of Communications Development

Faster Transmission – Messages and data are sent instantly (e.g. 5G,
fiber optics).
Wireless Technology – Fewer cables; more use of Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and
satellites.
Global Connectivity – People can connect worldwide anytime.
Mobile Communication – Smartphones and portable devices allow
communication on the go.
Multimedia Communication – Combines text, voice, video, and images
in one message.
Smart & Automated Systems – Chatbots, virtual assistants, and AI in
messaging.
Secure Communication – Stronger encryption and privacy protection.

Principal ethical concerns in the use of IT

Privacy
Protecting personal data from being collected or shared without
permission.
Security
Keeping systems and data safe from hackers, viruses, and misuse.
Digital Piracy
Using or sharing software, music, or media illegally.
Cyberbullying & Online Harassment
Misusing technology to harm or threaten others online.
Plagiarism
Copying digital content without giving credit to the original creator.
Digital Divide
Unequal access to technology between different social or economic
groups.
AI & Automation Ethics
 Making sure machines make fair decisions and don’t replace human
jobs unfairly.
Surveillance
Monitoring users without clear consent or transparency

Means to connect to the internet

Wi-Fi
Wireless connection through a router.
Common in homes, schools, and public places.
Mobile Data (3G/4G/5G)
Uses cellular networks on smartphones and tablets.
Allows internet access anywhere with signal.
Broadband (DSL/Fiber)
High-speed wired connection through phone or fiber-optic cables.
Common for home and office use.
Satellite Internet
Connects through satellites in remote areas.
Used where cables or mobile networks aren’t available.
Ethernet (LAN)
Wired connection using an Ethernet cable.
Provides stable and fast internet, mostly in offices or gaming
setups.
Hotspot
Sharing internet from a mobile device or portable hotspot router.
Useful for temporary or travel use.

Basic structure of internet

Client Devices
Devices like computers, phones, or tablets that request information.
Example: You open a website on your phone.
Servers
Powerful computers that store websites, files, or data and respond
to client requests.
Example: Google’s servers send search results to your device.
Routers & Switches
Devices that direct traffic on the internet.
They decide the best path for data to travel.
Internet Service Providers (ISPs)
Companies that connect users to the internet (e.g., Globe, AT&T,
PLDT).
You need an ISP to access the web.
Transmission Media
The physical paths data travels through:
Fiber optic cables
Telephone lines
Wireless signals (Wi-Fi, 5G)
Protocols
Rules for communication.
Most common: TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet
Protocol)

Components of system software

Operating System (OS)
Manages all hardware and software on a computer.
Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android
Device Drivers
Help the OS communicate with hardware devices.
Example: Printer driver, graphics card driver.
Utility Programs
 Perform maintenance tasks to keep the system running well.
Examples: Antivirus, disk cleanup, file manager.
System Management Software
Controls system performance, resources, and user access.
Used in larger networks or servers.
Firmware
Software built into hardware devices to control them.
Example: BIOS in computers or firmware in a router.

Principal functions of operating system

Manage hardware (CPU, memory, devices)
Run applications
File and storage management
Security and user access control
Provide user interface (desktop, icons
Various ways to obtain software
1. Commercial Purchase
Buy software from a vendor (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe
Photoshop).
You may receive a license key or subscription.
Available via:
Official websites
Physical stores (CD/DVDs)
App stores (e.g., Microsoft Store, Apple App Store)
2. Freeware
Software that is free to use without payment.
Example: VLC Media Player, Skype
Often available from official websites or app stores.
3. Open Source Software
Software with public source code; usually free.
Can be modified and redistributed (depending on license).
Examples: Linux, GIMP, LibreOffice
Found on platforms like GitHub, SourceForge, or official project
sites.
4. Shareware / Trialware
Software offered for free on a trial basis.
After the trial, you may need to pay to unlock full features.
Examples: WinRAR, Adobe Creative Cloud (trial versions)
5. Subscription-Based Software (SaaS)
Access software through a monthly or yearly subscription.
Often cloud-based, with regular updates.
Examples: Microsoft 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, Zoom, Canva
6. Bundled Software
Comes pre-installed with hardware (laptops, printers, phones).
Examples: OS, drivers, antivirus, or utilities included with the
device.
7. Download from the Internet
From:
Official websites (safe and recommended)
App stores
Third-party sites (must verify safety)
Ensure you're downloading from legitimate sources to avoid
malware.
8. Enterprise Licensing
Large organizations may obtain software through volume licensing
or enterprise agreements.
Example: Microsoft Volume Licensing for businesses.
9. Pirated Software (Illegal and Unsafe)
Unauthorized copying/distribution.
 Illegal, risky (malware), and not recommended.
10. Custom-Built Software
Developed in-house or outsourced to software developers.
Tailored to specific business or personal needs.
- Three types of data files
- Types of application software
- Word Processing
- Spreadsheets
- Database Software

Classreps please inform me if AVR is available on that day. For discussions, we will
use the AVR.