UoZ ICT Course

Prepared in Collaboration by the

Department of Computer Science and the UoZ / Statistics and ICT Center

Version 2.1

October 2024
 Table of Contents
Table of Contents ....................................................................................................................... 1
List of Figures ............................................................................................................................ 2
1. COMPUTER ESSENTIALS .............................................................................................. 3
1.1. ICT and types of ICT Services .................................................................................... 3
1.2. Definition of Computer ................................................................................................ 3
1.3. Hardware vs. Software ................................................................................................ 4
1.3.1. Hardware ......................................................................................................................... 4
1.3.2. Software ......................................................................................................................... 10
2. COMPUTER PARTS ....................................................................................................... 12
2.1. Main Parts of a Personal Computer ......................................................................... 12
2.2. Computer Peripherals ............................................................................................... 16
3. NETWORKS ..................................................................................................................... 28
3.1. Types of Networks ...................................................................................................... 28
3.1.1. Local Area Network .................................................................................................... 28
3.1.2. Personal Area Network .............................................................................................. 29
3.1.3. Metropolitan Area Network ...................................................................................... 30
3.1.4. Wide Area Network .................................................................................................... 30
3.2. Mobile Network Operator (MNO) ........................................................................... 33
4. ONLINE AND WEB ESSENTIALS ............................................................................... 35
4.1. Internet Basics ............................................................................................................ 35
4.1.1. What is the Internet? .................................................................................................. 35
4.1.2. What is the World Wide Web (www)? ................................................................... 36
4.1.3. Types of Internet Connection ................................................................................... 36
4.1.4. Data Transfer ............................................................................................................... 39
4.1.5. How does the Internet work? .................................................................................... 40
4.1.6. Other things you can do on the Internet ................................................................ 40
4.2. Web Browsers ............................................................................................................. 41
4.2.1. Navigating websites ..................................................................................................... 41
4.2.2. Google Chrome............................................................................................................. 42
PRACTICAL PART .............................................................................................................. 46

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 List of Figures
Figure 1.1: Computer hardware. ............................................................................................... 4
Figure 1.2: Main computer hardware parts. .............................................................................. 5
Figure 1.3: The most popular types of computers. ................................................................... 6
Figure 1.4: Desktop computer. ................................................................................................. 6
Figure 1.5: Laptop computer. ................................................................................................... 7
Figure 1.6: Tablet computer...................................................................................................... 7
Figure 1.7: Server computer. .................................................................................................... 8
Figure 1.8: Super computer. ..................................................................................................... 8
Figure 1.9: Mainframe computer. ............................................................................................. 9
Figure 1.10: Other types of mini computers. .......................................................................... 10
Figure 1.11: Computer software types. ................................................................................... 10
Figure 2.1: Computer case. ..................................................................................................... 12
Figure 2.2: Motherboard. ........................................................................................................ 13
Figure 2.3: CPU on motherboard. ........................................................................................... 14
Figure 2.4: RAM. .................................................................................................................... 14
Figure 2.5: Storage Devices. ................................................................................................... 15
Figure 2.6: Graphics Processing Unit. .................................................................................... 15
Figure 2.7: Power Supply. ...................................................................................................... 16
Figure 2.8: Keyboard. ............................................................................................................. 16
Figure 2.9: Types of computer mice. ...................................................................................... 17
Figure 2.10: Monitor / Screen. ................................................................................................ 17
Figure 2.11: Printer. ................................................................................................................ 18
Figure 2.12: Optical Drive. ..................................................................................................... 18
Figure 2.13: Input/Output Ports. ............................................................................................. 19
Figure 2.14: Network Interface Card. ..................................................................................... 19
Figure 2.15: Network Interface Card. ..................................................................................... 20
Figure 2.16: Computer with two speakers. ............................................................................. 20
Figure 2.17: Sound card. ......................................................................................................... 21
Figure 2.18: Sound card. ......................................................................................................... 21
Figure 2.19: External Wi-Fi. ................................................................................................... 22
Figure 2.20: ROM on the Motherboard. ................................................................................. 22
Figure 2.21: Hard disk. ........................................................................................................... 23
Figure 2.22: PC vs MAC. ....................................................................................................... 26

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Figure 2.23: Personal Computer. ............................................................................................ 26
Figure 2.24: Apple MAC computer. ....................................................................................... 27
Figure 3.1: Computer networking simulation sample. ........................................................... 28
Figure 3.2: Local area network. .............................................................................................. 29
Figure 3.3: Personal area network. ......................................................................................... 29
Figure 3.4: Metropolitan area network. .................................................................................. 30
Figure 3.5: Wide area network. .............................................................................................. 31
Figure 3.6: Network interface card. ........................................................................................ 32
Figure 3.7: Computer firewall. ............................................................................................... 32
Figure 3.8: Mobile networking. .............................................................................................. 33
Figure 3.9: Providing mobile networks. ................................................................................. 34
Figure 3.10: Client / server networks...................................................................................... 34
Figure 4.1: Internet sharing. .................................................................................................... 35
Figure 4.2: Educational website (UOZ). ................................................................................. 36
Figure 4.3: DSL principle. ...................................................................................................... 37
Figure 4.4: Cable medium. ..................................................................................................... 37
Figure 4.5: Internet using satellite. ......................................................................................... 38
Figure 4.6: Wireless connection. ............................................................................................ 38
Figure 4.7: Cellular technology. ............................................................................................. 39
Figure 4.8: Data Transfer (upload and download). ................................................................. 39
Figure 4.9: Communication using internet. ............................................................................ 40
Figure 4.10: Common web browsers. ..................................................................................... 41
Figure 4.11: Browsing a website. ........................................................................................... 42
Figure 4.12: Security alarm from google chrome browser. .................................................... 43
Figure 4.13: Chrome customization........................................................................................ 43
Figure 4.14: Chrome translation tool. ..................................................................................... 44

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1. COMPUTER ESSENTIALS
This module introduces us to the world of computers, ICT, and software,
helping to start a journey into using computers and digital devices for work and
leisure. Almost every industry in the world utilizes computers and digital devices in
some way, and having the core skills to complete common technology tasks is
essential for workers.

1.1. ICT and types of ICT Services

Terms such as IT or ICT are commonly used in relation to the application of
technology in the modern world. "ICT" stands for Information and Communication
Technology. This is a general term for describing the use of digital technology to
access, store, and process information into an organized and understandable form.

ICT has changed people's lives as it allows people to better explore ideas,
manage information, find answers to questions, solve problems, and become more
productive. Different types of ICT services and their uses include:

• Internet services: Online banking, online shopping, e-mail, and sharing

documentation are all facilitated by Internet technology.
• Mobile technology: Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets
support Internet access in a range of environments.
• Office productivity applications: Software applications such as word
processors, spreadsheets, presentations, databases, e-mail systems.

1.2. Definition of Computer

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It
has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you
can use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web.

A computer has two main parts: hardware and software. The hardware is
responsible for executing tasks, and the software provides the hardware with
directions for what tasks to perform - and how to perform them.

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 Computer hardware, firmware, peripherals, and software work together to
input, process, store, and output data.

1.3. Hardware vs. Software

Before we talk about different types of computers, let's talk about two things
all computers have in common: hardware and software.

1.3.1. Hardware

Hardware is a generic term for any part of the computer that you can
physically touch, pick up, hold, move around the room etc. In other words, hardware
are the physical parts that make up the computer, you can see in the figure 1.1.

Figure 1.1: Computer hardware.

Examples of external hardware (not inside the computer):

• Monitor - so you can see what you are working on.

• Printer - so you can get a paper copy of your work.
• Keyboard - so you can type text, numbers and symbols into your work.
• Mouse - so you can point, click and select things on your screen.
• Microphone - so you can input voice or sound recordings.

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Examples of internal hardware (inside the computer):

• Motherboard - the main printed circuit board in the computer with sockets
to connect the other parts.
• CPU (Central Processing Unit) - the 'brains' of the computer.
• RAM - Volatile storage in a computer that holds data while the machine is
running.
• Hard disk - to store all of your applications and files.
• Fan - to keep the CPU cool and stop it overheating.
• Sound card - used to generate and capture sounds.

Main parts of Computers and Devices Hardware are the physical parts or
components of a computer or device, such as the mouse, monitor, keyboard, system
unit and speakers. They are physical, tangible objects, see figure 1.2.

Figure 1.2: Main computer hardware parts.

Two of the most popular types of personal computing devices are the desktop
computer and the laptop computer. Of course, one of the most popular ICT devices
in the world today is the mobile phone.

What are the different types of computers?

When most people hear the word computer, they think of a personal
computer such as a desktop or laptop. However, computers come in many shapes
and sizes, and they perform many different functions in our daily lives. When you

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withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or use a calculator, you're
using a type of computer, figure 1.3 shows those most popular types of computers:

Figure 1.3: The most popular types of computers.

Desktop computers

Many people use desktop computers at work, home, and school as shown in
figure 1.4. Desktop computers are designed to be placed on a desk, and they're
typically made up of a few different parts, including the computer case, monitor,
keyboard, and mouse.

Figure 1.4: Desktop computer.

Laptop computers

The second type of computer you may be familiar with is a laptop computer
(as shown in figure 1.5) commonly called a laptop. Laptops are battery-powered

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computers that are more portable than desktops, allowing you to use them almost
anywhere.

Figure 1.5: Laptop computer.

Tablets

Tablet computers - or tablets - are handheld computers that are even more
portable than laptops as shown in figure 1.6. Instead of a keyboard and mouse,
tablets use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and navigation. The iPad is an
example of a tablet.

Figure 1.6: Tablet computer.

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Servers

A server: is a computer that serves up information to other computers on a

network (a sample has been shown in figure 1.7). For example, whenever you use
the Internet, you're looking at something that's stored on a server. Many businesses
also use local file servers to store and share files internally.

Figure 1.7: Server computer.

Super computer

The most powerful computers are super computers. They are large, extremely
fast, and expensive computer used for complex calculations. These computers used
by large companies like NASA. See figure 1.8.

Figure 1.8: Super computer.

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Mainframe Computer

Mainframe computer: A high-level, typically large and expensive.

Mainframe computers are characterized by their ability to simultaneously support
many users connected to the computer by terminals. See figure 1.9.

Figure 1.9: Mainframe computer.

Other types of computers

Many of today's electronics are basically specialized computers, though we

don't always think of them that way. Here are a few common examples.

• Smartphones: Many cell phones can do a lot of things computers can do,
including browsing the Internet and playing games. They are often called
smartphones.
• Wearables: Wearable technology is a general term for a group of devices—
including fitness trackers and smartwatches—that are designed to be
worn throughout the day. These devices are often called wearables for

short.
• Game consoles: A game console is a specialized type of computer that is
used for playing video games on your TV.
• TVs: Many TVs now include applications—or apps—that let you access
various types of online content. For example, you can stream video from
the Internet directly onto your TV.

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 Figure 1.10: Other types of mini computers.

1.3.2. Software
Software is a program which consists of the step-by-step instructions that tell
the computer how do its work. The purpose of software is to convert data to
information.

Data: raw facts.

Information: data that is organized, meaningful, and useful.

There are two main types of software:

• Systems software: These systems, and their related utilities, enable the
computer to function. An example of an operating system is Microsoft
Windows 7.
• Application software: This software carries out specific tasks for users.
An example of an application is a word processing tool such as Microsoft
Word or a web browser such as Google Chrome (as shown in figure 1.11).

Figure 1.11: Computer software types.

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 Everything you do on your computer will rely on both hardware and software.
For example, right now you may be viewing this lesson in a web browser (software)
and using your mouse (hardware) to click from page to page.

Operating System

The computer’s operating system manages its memory, processes, and all of
its software and hardware in personal computers as well as in mobile devices such
as smartphones or tablets. The three most common operating systems for personal
computers are: Microsoft Windows, Apple OS and Linux. Examples of mobile
operating systems are: Apple iOS and Google Android.

An application is a type of software that allows you to perform specific tasks.

They fall into many different categories:

• Office productivity: These include word processing and spreadsheet

applications, such as those contained in Microsoft Office, iWork, or Open
Office application suites.
• Communications: These include email applications, such as Microsoft
Outlook, and messaging / voice applications such as Skype or Viber.
• Social networking: These include mobile applications and websites that
allow users to connect and exchange status updates and comments.
Examples of these are Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
• Media: These include tools that allow media to be viewed or listened to,
such as Windows Media Player or iTunes.
• Design: These include applications for working with images, such as
Adobe Photoshop or GIMP, or publishing, such as Adobe InDesign.
• Mobile applications: These include a range of applications that can be
used in mobile devices and smartphones. Examples are online storage
applications or e-mail.

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2. COMPUTER PARTS
The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor,
keyboard, mouse, and power cord. Each part plays an important role whenever
using the computer.

Computer Case

Firstly, computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main
components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit
(CPU), and power supply.

The front of the case usually has an on / off button and one or more optical
drives (you can see figure 2.1).

Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat
on a desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next
to the monitor or on the floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal
components built into the monitor, which eliminates the need for a separate case.

Figure 2.1: Computer case.

2.1. Main Parts of a Personal Computer

• Microprocessor (Central Processing Unit CPU).

• Memory (Random Access Memory RAM).
• Read Only Memory (ROM).
• System Board (Motherboard).
• Disk Drivers (CD, DVD, Floppy and Hard Disk Drivers).

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Motherboard

• Definition: The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It's a

thin plate that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and
optical drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, and
connections to your computer's ports (such as USB ports).
• Example: When you plug in a USB drive, the motherboard routes this
information to the CPU, look at figure 2.2.

Figure 2.2: Motherboard.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

• Definition: The central processing unit (CPU), also called a processor, is

located inside the computer case on the motherboard. It is sometimes
called the brain of the computer, and its job is to carry out commands.
• Example: When you open a program, the CPU is what processes the
necessary operations to make that program run, you can see figure 2.3.

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 Figure 2.3: CPU on motherboard.

Memory (RAM)

• Definition: Volatile storage in a computer that holds data while the

machine is running; RAM is cleared when the computer is turned off.
• Example: Having more RAM allows your computer to run more programs
simultaneously without slowing down. See figure 2.4 below:

Figure 2.4: RAM.

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Storage Devices

• Definition: Devices that store data persistently for long-term access, such
as Flash memory, CD, DVD, Floppy Disk, Micro card, HDDs and SSDs.
• Example: You save your documents and photos on a storage device so you
can access them anytime, see figure 2.5.

Figure 2.5: Storage Devices.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

• Definition: A specialized electronic circuit designed to accelerate the

creation of images in a frame buffer intended for output to a display.
• Example: Gamers need powerful GPUs to render high-quality graphics
smoothly. Figure 2.6 show types of GPU.

Figure 2.6: Graphics Processing Unit.

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 Power Supply Unit (PSU)

• Definition: Converts mains AC to low-voltage regulated DC power for the

internal components of a computer.
• Example: When you turn on your computer, the PSU supplies power to all
components from the motherboard to the hard drives. See figure 2.7.

Figure 2.7: Power Supply.

2.2. Computer Peripherals

A computer peripheral, technically speaking, is any device that connects to the
computing unit but is not part of the core architecture of the computing unit.

Keyboard

• Definition: An input device consisting of a set of individual keys similar

to those of a typewriter.
• Example: You use a keyboard to type your essays or to input commands
into the computer. See figure 2.8:

Figure 2.8: Keyboard.

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Mouse

• Definition: A hand-held pointing device that detects two-dimensional

motion relative to a surface.
• Example: You use a mouse to click on icons, open files, and navigate
through your computer’s operating system. See figure 2.9 for more
information.

Figure 2.9: Types of computer mice.

Monitor

• Definition: An output device that displays information in pictorial form.

• Example: A monitor shows the visual outputs from your computer, such
as the desktop environment or movies you watch. Look at figure 2.10
below:

Figure 2.10: Monitor / Screen.

Printer

• Definition: A peripheral device that makes persistent representations of

graphics or text on paper.

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 • Example: You use a printer to produce hard copies of documents and
photos. See figure 2.11 below:

Figure 2.11: Printer.

Optical Drive

• Definition: A disc drive that uses laser light as part of the process of
reading or writing data to or from optical discs.
• Example: You might use an optical drive to read DVDs or CDs that contain
data or media. Look at figure 2.12.

Figure 2.12: Optical Drive.

Common Input/Output Ports

• Definition: Devices are often physically connected to a device through an

input/output (I/O) port.
• Example: The best-known of these ports is the Universal Serial Bus
(USB). See figure 2.13 below:

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 Figure 2.13: Input/Output Ports.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

• Definition: A hardware component that allows computers to connect to a

network.
• Example: The NIC in your computer allows it to connect to the Internet or
local network resources. Figure 2.14 shows sample of NIC

Figure 2.14: Network Interface Card.

Cooling System (Fans)

• Definition: Keeps the computer from overheating by circulating air or

cooling liquid.
• Example: Computer fans kick in to cool down the components when you
are running intensive programs or games. Look at the next figure (figure
2.15):

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 Figure 2.15: Network Interface Card.

Speakers

• Definition: Output devices for sound.

• Example: Connect speakers to your computer to listen to music or the
audio from movies. Look at figure 2.16.

Figure 2.16: Computer with two speakers.

Sound Card

• Definition: An internal computer expansion card that facilitates the input

and output of audio signals to and from a computer under control of
computer programs.

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 • Example: A sound card is needed to provide the audio capabilities for
multimedia applications like games and music players. You can see figure
2.17 for mor explanation.

Figure 2.17: Sound card.

Bluetooth card (or adapter)

Bluetooth is a technology for wireless communication over short distances.

It's often used in computers to communicate with wireless keyboards, mice, and
printers. It's commonly built into the motherboard or included in a wireless
network card. For computers that don't have Bluetooth, you can purchase a USB
adapter, often called a dongle as shown in figure 2.18.

Figure 2.18: Sound card.

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Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that uses radio waves to provide

wireless high-speed Internet access. The term Wi-Fi is short for "wireless fidelity".
See figure 2.19 which display an external Wi-Fi.

Figure 2.19: External Wi-Fi.

What is ROM Memory?

ROM (Read Only Memory) is a type of computer memory that stores

permanent data and instructions for the device to start up. See figure 2.20:

Figure 2.20: ROM on the Motherboard.

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The role of ROM in computers

No matter what type of computer you have - desktop PC, laptop, tablet - it will
almost certainly contain some form of non-volatile RAM or ROM. These types of
memories store important information such as BIOS settings and operating system
instructions that your computer needs in order to operate correctly. Without them
your computer would essentially be "brain dead" so it’s important that they remain
functional at all times.

Hard drive

The hard drive is where your software, documents, and other files are stored.
The hard drive is long-term storage, which means the data is still saved even if you
turn the computer off or unplug it, look at figure 2.21.

Figure 2.21: Hard disk.

When you run a program or open a file, the computer copies some of the data
from the hard drive onto the RAM. When you save a file, the data is copied back
to the hard drive. The faster the hard drive, the faster your computer can start up
and load programs.

Types of Hard Drives

Currently, there are two common types of hard drive:

• Hard Disk Drive (HDD).

• Solid State Drive (SSD).

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List of Computer Storage Devices

• Floppy Disk
• Hard Drive
• Zip Disk

Optical Storage Devices

• CD-ROM
• Blu-Ray Disc
• DVD
• CD-R

Flash Memory Devices

• USB Drive
• Memory Card
• Memory Stick
• SD-Card

Storage Measurements Units

• Bit: All computers work on a binary numbering system, i.e. they process
data in ones or zeros. These 1 or 0 levels of storage is called bit.
• Byte: A byte consists of eight bits, 1 Byte= 8 bit.
• Kilobyte: A kilobyte (KB) consists of 1024 bytes.
• Megabyte: A megabyte (MB) consists of 1024 kilobytes.
• Gigabyte: A gigabyte (GB) consists of 1024 megabytes.
• Terabyte: A terabyte (TB) consists of 1024 gigabytes.

Computer Input and Output Devices

• Input Devices: Peripheral devices whose purpose is to allow the user to

provide input to a computer system, while Input is an information entered
into a computer or program for processing using input devices.

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Input Devices

• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Microphone
• Barcode
• Scanner
• Joystick
• Digital camera

• Output devices: Peripheral devices used to show the processes information

from computer system includes items such as screens (monitors),
projector, printers, speakers and headphones.

Input and Output device

• Some devices are both input and output devices

• Alternatively referred to as an IO device, an input/output device is any
hardware used by a human operator or other systems to communicate with
a computer.
• As the name suggests, input/output devices are capable of sending data to
a computer and receiving data from a computer.

Examples of I/O devices:

• Network adapter
• CD-R/RW
• A modem can be used for downloading information from web sites, sending
and receiving emails.
• A touch screen can display a menu system (output device), and accept input
when people touch the menus displayed on the screen.

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PCs and Macs

Personal computers come in two main styles: PC and Mac. Both are fully
functional, but they have a different look and feel, and many people prefer one or
the other, see figure 2.22.

Figure 2.22: PC vs MAC.

PCs

This type of computer began with the original IBM PC that was introduced in
1981. Other companies began creating similar computers, which were called IBM
PC Compatible (often shortened to PC). Today, this is the most common type of
personal computer, and it typically includes the Microsoft Windows operating
system, figure 2.23 shows sample of PC.

Figure 2.23: Personal Computer.

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MACs

The Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984, and it was the first widely
sold personal computer with a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey).
All Macs are made by one company (Apple), and they almost always use the Mac
OS operating system, see figure 2.24.

Figure 2.24: Apple MAC computer.

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3. NETWORKS
A network consists of two or more computers that are linked in order to share
resources (such as printers and CDs), exchange files, or allow electronic
communications. The computers on a network may be linked through cables,
telephone lines, radio waves, satellites, or infrared light beams, see figure 3.1.

Figure 3.1: Computer networking simulation sample.

3.1. Types of Networks

Two very common types of networks include:

• LAN (Local Area Network).

• PAN (Personal Area Network).
• MAN (Metropolitan Area Network).
• WAN (Wide Area Network).

3.1.1. Local Area Network

• LAN is a group of computers connected to each other in a small area such as
building, office, look at figure 3.2.
• LAN is used for connecting two or more personal computers through a
communication medium such as twisted pair, coaxial cable, etc.
• It is less costly as it is built with inexpensive hardware such as hubs, network
adapters, and ethernet cables.
• The data is transferred at an extremely faster rate in LAN.
• Provides higher security.

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 Figure 3.2: Local area network.

3.1.2. Personal Area Network

• PAN is a network arranged within an individual person, typically within a

range of 10 meters.
• PAN covers an area of 30 feet.
• Personal computer devices that are used to develop the personal area network
are the laptop, mobile phones, media player and play stations, see figure 3.3.

Figure 3.3: Personal area network.

There are two types of Personal Area Network:

• Wired Personal Area Network: is created by using internet cables.

• Wireless Personal Area Network: developed by simply using wireless
technologies such as WiFi, Bluetooth. It is a low range network.

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3.1.3. Metropolitan Area Network

• MAN is a network that covers a larger geographic area by interconnecting

a different LAN to form a larger network, see figure 3.4.
• Government agencies use MAN to connect to the citizens and private
industries.
• In MAN, various LANs are connected to each other through a telephone
exchange line.
• It has a higher range than Local Area Network (LAN).

Figure 3.4: Metropolitan area network.

3.1.4. Wide Area Network

• WAN is a network that extends over a large geographical area such as states
or countries, see figure 3.5.
• WAN is quite bigger network than the LAN.
• WAN is not limited to a single location, but it spans over a large
geographical area through a telephone line, fiber optic cable or satellite
links.
• The internet is one of the biggest WAN in the world.
• WAN is widely used in the field of Business, government, and education.

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 Figure 3.5: Wide area network.

Computer networks serve a number of purposes, some of which include

• Communications such as email, instant messaging, chat rooms, etc.

• Shared hardware such as printers and input devices
• Shared data and information through the use of shared storage devices
• Shared software, which is achieved by running applications on remote
computers

Some of the basic hardware components that can be used in networks include:

• Interface Cards: These allow computers to communicate over the network

with a low-level addressing system using media access control (MAC)
addresses to distinguish one computer from another, see figure 3.6.

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 Figure 3.6: Network interface card.

• Repeaters: These are electronic devices that amplify communication

signals and also filter noise from interfering with the signals.
• Hubs: These contain multiple ports, allowing a packet of information/data
to be copied unmodified and sent to all computers on the network.
• Bridges: These connect network segments, which allows information to
flow only to specific destinations
• Switches: These are devices that forward, make forwarding decisions and
otherwise filter chunks of data communication between ports according to
the MAC addresses in the packets of information.
• Routers: These are devices that forward packets between networks by
processing the information in the packet.
• Firewalls: These reject network access requests from unsafe sources, but
allow requests for safe ones, see figure 3.7.

Figure 3.7: Computer firewall.

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3.2. Mobile Network Operator (MNO)
Mobile phones work by sending and receiving low power radio signals,
much like a 2-way radio system. The signals are sent to and received from antennas
that are attached to radio transmitters and receivers, commonly referred to as mobile
phone base stations. The base stations are linked to the rest of the mobile and fixed
phone network and pass the signal/call on into those networks, see figure 3.8.

Figure 3.8: Mobile networking.

These mobile operators also known as a wireless service provider, wireless

carrier, cellular company, or mobile network carrier, MNOs are providers of
wireless communication services (see figure 3.9) that own or control all the elements
necessary to deliver services to customers, this includes:

• Radio spectrum allocation: The airwaves used for transmitting signals.

• Wireless network infrastructure: This includes the cell towers, base
stations, and switches that make up the network.
• SIM cards: Identify subscribers and store their information.
• Core network: This handles call routing, data transmission, and billing.

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 Figure 3.9: Providing mobile networks.

Client / Server Networks

• A client-server network is a form of internet network that consists of a

single central computer functioning as a server and directing several other
computers, referred to as clients, see figure 3.10.
• Clients can access shared files and information kept on the serving machine
by connecting to the server.
• The medium through which clients access resources and services from a
central computer, via either a Local Area Network (LAN) or a Wide-Area
Network (WAN), such as the Internet.

Figure 3.10: Client / server networks.

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4. ONLINE AND WEB ESSENTIALS
Today, the internet has become an important part of everyday life for people
around the world. Appropriate use of the internet makes our life easy, fast and
simple. The internet helps us with facts and figures, information and knowledge for
personal, social and economic development. There are many uses of the internet,
however, the use of the internet in our daily life depends on individual requirements
and goals. That is why we have internet plans that suit those needs, whether that be,
internet plans for the home, personal or business internet, each one has a part to play.

4.1. Internet Basics

The Internet is an increasingly important part of everyday life for people
around the world. But if you've never used the Internet before, all of this new
information might feel a bit confusing at first.

4.1.1. What is the Internet?

The Internet is a global network of billions of computers and other electronic
devices. With the Internet, it's possible to access almost any information,
communicate with anyone else in the world, and do much more. You can do all of
this by connecting a computer to the Internet, which is also called going online.
When someone says a computer is online, it's just another way of saying it's
connected to the Internet.

Figure 4.1: Internet sharing.

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4.1.2. What is the World Wide Web (www)?
The World Wide Web - usually called the Web for short - is a collection of
different websites you can access through the Internet. A website is made up of
related text, images, and other resources. Websites can resemble other forms of
media - like newspaper articles or television programs - or they can be interactive in
a way that's unique to computers. The purpose of a website can be almost anything:
a news platform, an advertisement, an online library, a forum for sharing images, or
an educational site (figure 4.2 shows an example of an educational site).

Figure 4.2: Educational website (UOZ).

Once you are connected to the Internet, you can access and view websites
using a type of application called a web browser.

Note: The web browser itself is not the Internet; it only displays websites that
are stored on the Internet.

4.1.3. Types of Internet Connection

Digital Subscriber Line (DSL):

It provides an internet connection through the telephone line(network). DSL

is a form of broadband communication that is always on. Speed: between 128 k to
8 Mbps, see figure 4.3.

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 Figure 4.3: DSL principle.

Cable

It is a form of broadband access cable modem that can provide extremely fast
access to the internet. The speed of this connection varies which can be different for
uploading data transmission or downloading. Speed: between 512k to 20Mbps,
see figure 4.4.

Figure 4.4: Cable medium.

Satellite

This type of connection is provided mainly in rural areas where a broadband

connection is not yet offered. It accesses the internet via a satellite that is in Earth’s
orbit. Speed: between 512k to 2Mbps.

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 Figure 4.5: Internet using satellite.

Wireless Connection

As the name suggests wireless connection does not use telephone lines or
cables to connect to the internet. The wireless connection uses a radio frequency
band to connect to the internet, see figure 4.6.

It is also an always-on connection and this connection can be accessed from

anywhere. Speed: between 5Mbps to 20Mbps.

Figure 4.6: Wireless connection.

Cellular

• Cellular technology provides wireless Internet access through cell phones.

Speed may vary depending on the service provider. The most common are
3G and 4G, see figure 4.7.

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 • Speed of 3G: around 2Mbps.
• Speed of 4G: around 21Mbps.

Figure 4.7: Cellular technology.

4.1.4. Data Transfer

• Uploading is the process of putting web pages, images and files onto a web
server.
• To make a file visible to everyone on the internet, you will need to upload it.
• Downloading is the process of getting web pages, images and files from a
web server.
• When users are copying this file to their computer, they are downloading it.

Figure 4.8: Data Transfer (upload and download).

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4.1.5. How does the Internet work?
It's important to realize that the Internet is a global network of physical cables,
which can include copper telephone wires, TV cables, and fiber optic cables. Even
wireless connections like Wi-Fi and 3G/4G rely on these physical cables to access
the Internet. When you visit a website, your computer sends a request over these
wires to a server. A server is where websites are stored, and it works a lot like your
computer's hard drive. Once the request arrives, the server retrieves the website and
sends the correct data back to your computer.

4.1.6. Other things you can do on the Internet

One of the best features of the Internet is the ability to communicate almost
instantly with anyone in the world. Email is one of the oldest and most universal
ways to communicate and share information on the Internet, and billions of people
use it. Social media allows people to connect in a variety of ways and build
communities online, see figure 4.9.

Figure 4.9: Communication using internet.

There are many other things you can do on the Internet. There are thousands
of ways to keep up with news or shop for anything online. You can pay your bills,
manage your bank accounts, meet new people, watch TV, or learn new skills. You
can learn or do almost anything online.

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4.2. Web Browsers
A web browser allows you to connect to and view websites. The web browser
itself is not the Internet, but it displays pages on the Internet. Each website has a
unique address. By typing this address into your web browser, you can connect to
that website and your web browser will display it. Here are the most common web
browser over the worlds (see figure 4.10 for more explanation):

• Chrome: Best Browser for Stability.

• Safari: Best Browser for Battery Life (MacOS and iOS Only).
• Edge: Fast and secure browser from Microsoft.
• Firefox: Best Non-Chromium Privacy-Based Browser.
• Brave: Best Privacy-Based Browser for Crypto-Enthusiasts.
• Opera: Staying Relevant but Serious Privacy Concerns.
• Arc Browser: Most Innovative Browser.

Figure 4.10: Common web browsers.

4.2.1. Navigating websites

Websites often have links to other sites, also called hyperlinks. These are
often parts of the text on the website. They are usually colored blue, and sometimes
they are underlined or bold. If you click the text, your browser will load a different
page. Web authors use hyperlinks to connect relevant pages. This web of links is
one of the most unique features of the Internet, lending to the old name World Wide
Web. Each website has a unique address, called a URL. You'll notice that when you
click a link, the URL changes as your browser loads a new page. If you type a URL
in the address bar in your browser, your browser will load the page associated with

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that URL. It's like a street address, telling your browser where to go on the Internet.
You can see figure 4.11 which shows an example of browsing website.

Figure 4.11: Browsing a website.

When you're looking for specific information on the Internet, a search engine
can help. A search engine is a specialized website that's designed to help you find
other websites. If you type keywords or a phrase into a search engine, it will display
a list of websites relevant to your search terms.

4.2.2. Google Chrome

Google Chrome is a free web browser from Google. With its clean design and
advanced features, Chrome has quickly become one of the most popular web
browsers worldwide.

Chrome's features

Chrome has several features that make it easy to browse the web. Learn more
about some of Chrome's features below.

● Speed: Because Chrome was designed with web applications in mind,

performance with websites like Gmail and Facebook is especially fast and
reliable.
● Security: Chrome has a variety of tools to help keep you safe online. It is
constantly updating, so you're always protected from the latest malware and
phishing scams. For example, Chrome will show you a warning whenever you
visit a page that is potentially dangerous, see figure 4.12 security message.

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 Figure 4.12: Security alarm from google chrome browser.

● Customization: While Chrome's design is simple, the Chrome Web Store

makes it easy to customize Chrome with web apps, themes, and extensions, see
figure 4.13.

Figure 4.13: Chrome customization.

● Translation: Whenever you visit a website that's in a foreign language, Chrome

will automatically offer to translate the page to your native language. This
feature isn't always perfect, but it opens the door to millions of websites you
might never have visited otherwise, see figure 4.14.

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 Figure 4.14: Chrome translation tool.

Downloading Chrome

Unlike Internet Explorer or Safari, Chrome does not come pre-installed with
your operating system. To use Chrome, you must first download and install it to your
computer. The process is simple and should take no more than a few minutes.

To download and install Chrome:

1. Using your current web browser, navigate to www.google.com/chrome

2. The Google Chrome download page will appear. Locate and select the
Download now button.

3. A dialog box will appear. Review the Google Chrome Terms of Service,
then click Accept and Install.

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4. The Google Chrome Installer will open automatically. The download and
installation process may vary depending on your current web browser and
operating system. Step-by-step instructions will appear in the browser
window if you are not sure how to proceed.

5. The installer will close when finished, and Google Chrome will open.

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PRACTICAL PART

Practical section includes Windows (it doesn't make difference if

Windows 7, 8, 10, 11 is installed on lab computers), the following windows
essentials are the minimum requirements to be studied in the lab:

• Desktop Personalization (background, theme, lock screen, … etc.).

• Icons (move, arrange, group, … etc.).

• Right Click Menu (R.C on different places).

• Taskbar (icons, language bar, clock, ... etc.).

• Start Menu (shutdown, restart, user account, … etc.).

• Windows Explorer (moving windows, maximize, minimize, close,

arrange, … etc.).

• Files and folders (moving, copy, delete, rename, … etc.).

• File management (show, change properties, view, share, search… etc.).

• Date and time (regional format, clock, date, … etc.).

• Mouse (Properties, color and shape, speed, … etc.).

• User Accounts (Create, delete, change type, … etc.).

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