Tools Used in Information Technology Flashcards
What is the function of a modem?
Converts digital data from a computer into analog signals for transmission over telephone lines (or vice versa).
What are the advantages of using a modem?
Essential for connecting to the internet, especially for dial-up or DSL connections. Provides reliable internet access in areas where high-speed broadband is not available.
What are the disadvantages of using a modem?
Slow speeds compared to modern broadband connections. Requires a physical phone line or cable, which limits mobility.
What is the function of a router?
Connects different networks (e.g., LAN to WAN) and manages the flow of data between them, ensuring packets reach the correct destination.
What are the advantages of using a router?
Efficiently directs data between different networks. Built-in firewalls and NAT help protect networks. Manages IP traffic and supports different network standards.
What are the disadvantages of using a router?
Can be difficult to set up, especially for larger networks. Routers can introduce delays as they process data. High-performance routers can be expensive.
What is the function of a hub?
Connects multiple devices on a network and broadcasts data to all devices, regardless of the destination.
What are the advantages of using a hub?
Easy to use and setup, with no complex configuration. Devices can be added without setup or special configuration.
What are the disadvantages of using a hub?
All devices share the same bandwidth, leading to slowdowns as more devices are added. Hubs broadcast data to all devices, causing network congestion. Lacks advanced features like traffic prioritization or network security.
What is the function of a switch?
Connects devices on a network and forwards data only to the intended recipient based on MAC addresses, improving efficiency.
What are the advantages of using a switch?
Reduces network congestion by forwarding data only to the relevant device. Handles large numbers of devices without significant performance loss. Offers features like port security and VLANs for better network protection. Can handle more devices without major impact on performance.
What are the disadvantages of using a switch?
More expensive than hubs due to advanced functionality. Can be more complex to configure than hubs.
What is the function of VoIP?
Allows voice calls to be made over the internet instead of through traditional telephone lines.
What are the advantages of VoIP?
Cost-effective, especially for long-distance calls. High-quality audio and video communication.
What are the disadvantages of VoIP?
Dependent on a stable internet connection. Quality can degrade with poor bandwidth or network congestion.
What is the function of SMS?
A text messaging service for sending short messages, typically via mobile devices.
What are the advantages of SMS?
Quick and easy way to send messages. Works even with low-bandwidth mobile networks.
What are the disadvantages of SMS?
Limited to short messages (usually 160 characters). May incur costs depending on the provider.
What is the function of search engines?
Help users find information on the internet by indexing websites.
What are the advantages of search engines?
Quick access to vast amounts of information. Advanced search options and algorithms that yield relevant results.
What are the disadvantages of search engines?
Search results may be influenced by paid ads and SEO strategies. Over-reliance on search engines can sometimes result in missing out on niche or diverse sources of information.
What is the function of Telnet?
A text-based protocol used to remotely access servers and other devices over a network.
What are the advantages of Telnet?
Simple to use for accessing remote systems. Effective for troubleshooting and remote administration.
What are the disadvantages of Telnet?
Security risks, as data (including passwords) is transmitted in plaintext. Being replaced by more secure protocols like SSH (Secure Shell).
What is the function of FTP?
Used for transferring files between computers over a network.
What are the advantages of FTP?
Supports large file transfers. Can be automated with scripts for regular backups or file updates.
What are the disadvantages of FTP?
FTP transfers are typically unencrypted, making them vulnerable to security breaches. Requires setting up a server or using a third-party FTP host.
What is the function of a discussion forum/board?
An online platform for discussions where users can post messages and reply to others.
What are the advantages of discussion forums/boards?
Community-driven, allows for rich, long-term discussions. Can cater to niche interests and provide specialized advice.
What are the disadvantages of discussion forums/boards?
Can be slow-moving, especially on less active forums. Moderation can sometimes be poor, leading to spam or off-topic content.
What is the function of a message board?
A virtual space where users can post messages in threads or topics.
What are the advantages of a message board?
Simple interface for communication. Used for asynchronous discussions.
What are the disadvantages of a message board?
Can be fragmented, with numerous sub-forums and topics making it harder to find specific content.
What is the function of a mailing list?
A system where users can subscribe to receive emails on a particular topic or from a specific group.
What are the advantages of a mailing list?
Convenient for sharing updates and information to a large group. Cost-effective for managing group communications.
What are the disadvantages of a mailing list?
Can result in spam if poorly managed. Subscribers may feel overwhelmed by frequent emails.
What is the function of social media tools?
Platforms that allow users to create content, share it with others, and engage with communities.
What are the advantages of social media tools?
Facilitates communication and networking globally. Allows for multimedia content sharing (text, images, video).
What are the disadvantages of social media tools?
Privacy concerns regarding personal data. Can become overwhelming or addictive due to constant notifications.
What is the function of web-conferencing tools?
Platforms that facilitate live video, audio, and chat communication for remote meetings.
What are the advantages of web-conferencing tools?
Ideal for remote work, webinars, and online learning. Easy to share files and collaborate in real-time.
What are the disadvantages of web-conferencing tools?
Dependent on internet speed and stability for good quality. Can be subject to “Zoom fatigue” with excessive use.
What is the function of cross-platform messaging tools?
Messaging apps that work across multiple devices and platforms.
What are the advantages of cross-platform messaging tools?
Seamless communication across devices (phone, desktop, tablet). Often includes multimedia capabilities, like voice messages, videos, and file sharing.
What are the disadvantages of cross-platform messaging tools?
Security and privacy concerns (some apps collect data, even end-to-end encrypted apps can have vulnerabilities). Dependence on a constant internet connection.
