Ict 1
Ict 1
Ict 1
Data refers to the raw, unorganized facts and figures that are typically stored in a database
or file. It's the input that is fed into a computer for processing. Examples of data include:
Numbers, Text, Images, Audio file and Videos
Information, on the other hand, is the result of organizing, analysing, and interpreting data
to extract meaning and value from it. It is the output that is derived from processing data.
Examples of information include: A summary of sales figures, a report on customer
behaviour, a conclusion drawn from a research study and recommendation based on data
analysis.
Question 2
An operating system (OS) is a software that manages and controls a computer's hardware
and software resources, providing a platform for running applications and performing
various tasks. It acts as an intermediary between computer hardware and user-level
applications, ensuring efficient and secure interaction between the two. (Deitel, H . M et al
2004)
Question 3
Utility programs are software applications that perform specific maintenance, optimization,
or management tasks on a computer or network. They are designed to help manage, tune,
or configure various aspects of a computer system, including hardware, software, and data.
(Aronesty,E.,2013).
Utility programs typically fall into categories such as:
System maintenance: Disk clean up, disk defragmentation, and registry cleaning.
Security: Antivirus software, firewalls, and password managers.
Performance optimization: Memory management, disk compression, and caching.
Data management: Backup and recovery software, file compression, and archiving.
Networking: Network configuration, troubleshooting, and monitoring tools.
Hardware management: Device drivers, firmware updates, and hardware diagnostics.
Troubleshooting: Error checking, debugging, and system analysis tools.
Examples of utility programs include:
1. Disk Clean up (Windows)
2. Disk Utility (macOS)
3. Norton Antivirus
4. Cleaner (Windows)
5. WinRAR (file compression)
Question 4
Middleware is software that connects and enables communication between multiple
systems, applications, or services, facilitating data exchange, integration, and
interoperability. It acts as a bridge or intermediary layer, enabling disparate systems to work
together seamlessly. (Razzague, M.A et al 2015)
Middleware can be used to:
(i).Integrate different applications, services, or systems
(ii). Enable communication between heterogeneous systems
(iii). Provide a common interface or API for multiple systems
(iv). Manage data flow and transformation between systems
(v) Offer security, authentication, and authorization features
Examples of middleware include:
1. Enterprise Service Bus (ESB)
2. Message-Oriented Middleware (MOM)
3. Remote Procedure Call (RPC) middleware
4. Web services middleware (e.g., SOAP, REST)
Question 5
1. Convenience: Email allows users to send and receive messages at any time and from any
location with an internet connection.
5. Attachments: Email allows users to send attachments, such as documents, images, and
videos.
7. Automation: Email can be automated using tools like autoresponders and email
marketing software.
8. Flexibility: Email can be accessed from various devices, including desktops, laptops,
mobile phones, and tablets.
1. Security risks: Email is vulnerable to cyber threats like spam, phishing, and malware.
2. Information overload: Email inboxes can become cluttered, making it difficult to prioritize
messages.
4. Lack of personal touch: Email lacks the personal touch and nonverbal cues of face-to-face
communication.
5. Technical issues: Email can be affected by technical issues like server downtime, internet
connectivity problems, and email client glitches.
6. Spam and junk mail: Email users often receive unwanted spam and junk mail.
Badran, H., Pluye, P and Grad, R .,2015. Advantages and disadvantages of email . jounal of
medical internet research ,17(2),p.e3773.
Deitel,H., Deitel,P.J and Choffnes DR.., 2004. Operating systems. Pearson/Prentice Hall.