IT Flashcards
An electronic device that processes data according to a set of instructions called a program. It can store, retrieve, and manipulate data to perform a variety of tasks, such as calculations, communication, and information management. A computer typically consists of hardware components and software that controls its operations.
Computer
The abacus is one of the earliest known tools used for calculation. It was used in ancient civilizations for performing arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
500 BC: The Abacus Calculator
This refers to the invention of the first mechanical computer by Charles Babbage. His design, known as the Difference Engine, could perform complex mathematical calculations automatically.
1821: The First Computer is Invented
The first electric computer designed for regular use was built in 1939. Early examples include the Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC), which is considered the first electronic digital computer.
1939: The First Electric Computer for Routine Use
In 1971, the first email was sent by Ray Tomlinson. He is credited with developing the email system, using the “@” symbol to distinguish between the user and the computer system.
1971: First Email Sent
This refers to the development of the Xerox Alto, one of the earliest computers to feature a graphical user interface, keyboard, and mouse—elements that would become standard in personal computing.
1973: First Computer with Graphical User Interface (GUI), Keyboard, and Mouse
released in 1981 by Osborne Computer Corporation
Osborne 1
was introduced by Motorola in 1983
Motorola DynaTAC 8000X
refers to the physical components of a computer system that you can see and touch.
Hardware
the set of programs, applications, and data that instruct the hardware on how to perform specific tasks.
Software
the process of entering data into the computer
Input
performing operations on the data.
Processing
the computer saves data either temporarily (in RAM) or permanently (on storage devices).
Storage
the computer presents results through output devices
Output
The software that acts as an intermediary between computer hardware and the user. It manages the computer’s hardware resources and provides a variety of services to ensure that programs can function efficiently and that users can interact with the system in a user-friendly way. Essentially, the OS allows the computer to run applications, manage files, and perform tasks like input/output processing and memory management.
Operating System
is a command-line operating system that was widely used in the early days of personal computing. It provides a simple interface for managing files and running programs.
*Historically used on early IBM PCs and personal computers in the 1980s and early 1990s.
*While largely obsolete, it is still used in embedded systems or to run older legacy software.
*Occasionally used by hobbyists and retrocomputing enthusiasts for running classic software and games.
DOS (Disk Operating System)
is a popular, user-friendly operating system that provides a graphical user interface (GUI), multitasking capabilities, and support for a wide range of hardware and software.
- Mostly used on personal computers (PCs) for home, office, and business environments.
- Widely adopted in educational institutions and corporate environments due to its compatibility with various software applications.
- It is also commonly used in gaming due to broad support for a large variety of games.
Windows (by Microsoft)
operating system for Macintosh computers, known for its smooth, intuitive interface and tight integration with Apple’s hardware ecosystem.
*Primarily used on Apple’s desktop and laptop computers like the MacBook, iMac, and Mac Pro.
*Favored in creative industries (e.g., design, video editing, music production) due to its optimized performance for graphic-intensive applications like Adobe Creative Cloud and Final Cut Pro.
*Often used by developers due to its UNIX-based structure, which makes it ideal for programming and app development, especially for the iOS and macOS ecosystems.
macOS (by Apple)
is an open-source operating system that is known for its flexibility, security, and stability. It is freely available and can be customized to suit various needs.
*Predominantly used in servers, data centers, and cloud environments due to its stability, efficiency, and security. *Widely used in embedded systems (e.g., routers, smart TVs, IoT devices).
*Preferred by developers, network administrators, and tech enthusiasts for its open-source nature, flexibility, and extensive customization options.
*Popular distributions (distros) like Ubuntu and Fedora are used on desktops by users who prefer open-source alternatives to Windows or macOS.
Linux
is a mobile operating system based on the Linux kernel, designed primarily for touchscreen mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.
*Primarily used on smartphones and tablets, making it the most widely used mobile operating system in the world. *Also found on smart TVs, smartwatches, and other smart devices.
*Favored in mobile development for apps available in the Google Play Store, with Android’s open-source nature allowing developers and manufacturers to customize it.
Android (by Google)
is Apple’s operating system for mobile devices, designed specifically for iPhones and iPads. It is known for its strong security, smooth user experience, and integration with Apple’s ecosystem.
*Used exclusively on Apple’s mobile devices, including iPhones, iPads, and iPod Touch.
*Known for its high-security standards, it is widely used in consumer electronics and enterprise environments where security and privacy are important.
*Popular in the app development community, as iOS apps often generate higher revenue than Android apps, despite having a smaller user base.
iOS (by Apple)
is a global network that connects millions of private, public, academic, business, and government networks. These networks use standardized communication protocols to exchange data. Essentially, the internet allows different types of devices (computers, smartphones, tablets) to communicate with one another, forming the backbone of modern information sharing and connectivity.
Internet
operates on a set of protocols that regulate how data is transmitted
Internet
the core protocols that govern the flow of information across the web.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and Internet Protocol (IP)