WGU C182 Introduction to IT

WGU C182 Introduction to IT Information Technology The technology used in creating, maintaining, and making information accessible. IT Professional Roles Administration and Support System Administrator Maintains all aspects of the system including hardware, software, and programming. Network Administrator In charge of all aspects of the computer network Database Administrator Focuses on the design, development, and support of database management systems (DBMSs). Security Administrator Installs, configures, and administers firewall security to protect systems and proactively work to stop intrusions. Web Administrator Installs, configures, maintains, secures, and troubleshoots web severs. Support IT Professionals Help desk and training. Information Processed data. DIKW Hierarchy Defines the transition of data to information to knowledge to wisdom. (Data Information Knowledge Wisdom) Data in DIKW The input directly received by the user (or computer). It is generally not usable until it has been converted into a relevant form. Information in DIKW Having been inferred from data; one or more processes have been applied to the data to transform it into a more useful form. Knowledge in DIKW Information that has been put to use; information placed into a context. Refined information such that the user of the knowledge is able to call forth only relevant portions of information when needed. Wisdom in DIKW Provides a social setting to knowledge; an understanding of the "why". Can only come by having both knowledge and experience. Information Systems A collection of data and information used to support the management of an organization. Also refers to the technical components and human resources that enable the assembly, storage, and processing of data and the delivery of information. This has existed for a lot longer than computers. Characteristics of Quality Data Relevance - the data being used must apply directly to the decision being made Timely - data must be efficient and must be provided in a timely manner Thorough - the data must be complete Accurate - data should be captured only once, where possible and should be captured as close to the point of activity as possible. Reliable - data should reflect stable and consistent data collection processes across collections points and over time IPOS The Input-Procession-Output-Storage Cycle Input Raw data is entered by the user. Processing Raw data is organized or structured for usefulness. Output Information is output so user can see results. Storage Processed information is stored for permanent record. Computer System A collection of components that work together to meet the needs of the user; typically categorized as either hardware, software, networks, or users. Hardware Physical components of a computer system which include the system unit and its components and peripheral devices; tangible aspects of the computer. Software Computer programs that tell the computer what to do--how to execute commands and process information Network A collection of computers and resources connected by various media so that they can communicate with each other. User Those who use a computer. Software Categories Systems Software and Applications Software Evolution of Users First users were the engineers who built and programmed computers, then employees who had received specialized training were users, and now today, anyone and everyone can be a user. Protocol Rules provided by which networks communicate with each other. TCP/IP Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. Most commonly used protocol; is required of all computers that communicate over the Internet. Protocol Stack A collection of protocols. TCP/IP is an example. Components of a Computer