Exploring Computer Network Architecture

 How Network Architecture Relates to Concepts

            Network architecture is one of the fundamental concepts of information technology and computer science. It refers to how network devices and services are built to meet user’s devices’ needs (Cisco, n.d.). The history of computers dates back to the 1900s, where they originated from telephone switches using ones (on) and zeros (off) (Lysecky & Vahid, 2017). Through time, network architecture has evolved into smaller components, which consequently involved increasing its functionality. From the 19^th-century French silk weaver and inventor Joseph Marie Jacquard to the 20^th-century American inventor and creator of the punched card tabulating machine Herman Hollerith and beyond, the evolution of computer network architecture is a significant component of information technology and computing history (Lysecky & Vahid, 2017). Additionally, the combinations of multiple inventions led to the network architecture that we see today. The world has become increasingly reliant on computer connections, including accessing the web and is the fundamental concept behind network architecture. By understanding this technological topic, we see that it is vital to how information technology operates and communicates, as well as demonstrates the maintenance and evolution of computer science.

Why is Information and System Security Important?

Protect Information:

            In the evolving technological world, information and system security should be at the forefront of every individual’s and organization’s mind. The availability and access to information can be used for various purposes, in some cases malign. This concept’s foundation is that every piece of information shared online may have value to somebody, whether that be being sold to third-party companies, being used for marketing, or being used for blackmail or coercion (Lysecky & Vahid, 2017). For example, in the intelligence community, we use social media posts to gauge heuristics and events in a region. While a video on social media may not be of value to someone else, a federal agency may use that to determine valuable information about a particular region. Keeping in mind that information sent to and throughout the internet, whether private or public, can still be accessed, individuals and organizations must be careful with the information they share and post. Anything that is sent should be assessed how that information would be conveyed if it were to become public.

Demonstrating the Ping and Traceroute Commands

How do Packets Travel through a Typical Network?

        Typically, packets start at the originating machine. For me, this is my ASUS laptop. To reach the internet, they must travel through a router, then to a modem, and finally through the ISP. I have a DSL connection in my home, meaning that it uses a copper telephone wire to transmit data (not optimal because the maximum speed is 1.5 mb/s). My laptop sends packets wirelessly to my router/modem, which then gets directed to my ISP (CenturyLink). I thought it was funny learning about routers in a home since most devices are grouped nowadays. However, they are still very relevant in businesses. From there, the packets travel through several other computers on a path to their destination.

What are Computer Applications? How should we use them?

Word Processors, Spreadsheets, Presentations, and Databases:

            Word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, and database applications have unique functions that are suitable in most but not all cases. A common function found in word processors, spreadsheets, and presentations are editing the font size, color, and shape. Besides that function, these four applications have a broad range of tools and useful applicability to different tasks. A word processor allows you to compose, edit, save and print documents in digital format. A spreadsheet is a computer application designed to represent data tables that include text or numbers (Lysecky & Vahid, 2017). A unique function of a spreadsheet is that you can use formulas and create charts to manipulate and display your data. Also, spreadsheets are arranged in rows and columns of cells labeled chronologically by numbers and letters, respectively. A presentation application is used to create a slideshow, including text and graphics, and often with animation (Lysecky & Vahid, 2017). A slideshow is composed of individual slides where you can choose to use editing, animation, or presentation tools. A database application (commonly called a database management system (DBMS)) allows the user to create, maintain, and access database systems. Database functions include adding new data, editing existing data, deleting data, and querying for information (Lysecky & Vahid, 2017). Companies and vendors use database applications most frequently to keep track of inventory and to forecast trends. The unique functionality of each of these applications can be applied across a vast array of problem sets.

Reviewing the All Trails: Hike, Bike & Run Application

I decided to review an app from the Apple App Store called All Trails: Hike, Bike & Run. This app allows you to discover hiking, biking, and running trails around the world. I was first introduced to this app when I visited Hawaii on a military training exercise. I have now used it in Hawaii, North Carolina, and Virginia, so I am pretty familiar with the free version’s layout and functionality.

Learn Scratch: The Fundamentals of Programming Languages!

My Experience with Scratch:

               My experience building a program using Scratch is akin to other programming languages I have attempted to learn. At first, there is a steep learning curve where you must master the fundamentals of the language structure. Computer languages are analogous to spoken languages, where you must first learn the letters, sounds, and grammatical structure. In computer languages, you must learn the structure, syntax, and meaning of a statement. Without understanding these key concepts, you will be lost when building more complex and innovative scripts.