Applications of Information

&
Communication Technologies

Week 01: Components of Information and Communication

Technologies

Prof: Tahir Sabtain Syed.

 Define Computer
• An electronic machine that can accept data (input), manipulate
the data according to specified rules (process), produce results
(output), and stores the results for future use.
• An electronic device designed to accept data, perform prescribed
mathematical and logical operations at high speed, and display
the results of these operations.
• Computer System: A complete, working computer along with
software's and peripheral devices that are necessary to make
the computer function is called Computer system. Every
computer system requires an operating system to operate.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• ICT refers to a diverse and ever-evolving set of
technologies and systems that are used to manage,
process, transmit, and exchange information.
• These technologies play a fundamental role in our
modern world, transforming the way we work,
communicate, and access and share information.
• ICT encompasses both hardware and software
components, along with networks and platforms that
enable data and communication flow.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Key components of ICT:
– Hardware
– Software
– Communication Technologies:
– ICT Platforms:
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Hardware: components are the physical, tangible parts of a
computer system that enable it to function. They provide the
necessary infrastructure for processing, storing, and
interacting with data. Here's a more detailed explanation of
hardware components within the context of ICT:
• Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of the
computer. It executes instructions and performs calculations
for various tasks. It interprets and processes data, coordinates
all hardware components, and manages the execution of
software programs.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• RAM (Random Access Memory): RAM is a type of volatile
memory that stores data and instructions that the CPU needs
while it's actively processing tasks. It allows for quick access
and retrieval of data, making the computer run faster.
• Storage Devices (Hard Drives, SSDs): Storage devices store
data and software over the long term. Hard drives use
spinning disks to store data, while Solid State Drives (SSDs)
use flash memory for faster data access. These devices store
the operating system, applications, documents, and
multimedia files.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Input Devices: Input devices are used to provide data and
commands to the computer. Common examples include:
• Keyboard: Used for typing text and entering commands.
• Mouse: Enables pointing, clicking, and interacting with
graphical user interfaces.
• Touchscreens: Common in mobile devices and some
computers for touch-based input.
• Scanners: Used to convert physical documents or images into
digital format.
• Webcams: Capture video and images for video conferencing
and multimedia applications.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Output Devices: Output devices provide information and
results to the user. Common examples include:
– Monitor/Display: Displays visual information, text, images, and videos.
– Printers: Produce physical copies of digital documents.
– Speakers: Output audio for music, videos, and other multimedia
content.
• Networking Equipment: Networking hardware connects
computers and devices in a network, allowing them to
communicate and share data. Key components include:
– Routers: Manage data traffic between local networks and the internet.
– Switches: Direct data packets within a local network.
– Modems: Connect to the internet service provider and translate
digital data for transmission over communication lines.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Software: components in the context of
Information and Communication Technologies
(ICT) are the programs, applications, and code
that enable hardware to perform specific tasks
and functions.
• Software acts as an intermediary between
users and the computer's hardware, providing
a user-friendly interface and enabling the
execution of various operations.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
Software components within the realm of ICT:
• Operating Systems: Operating systems are the
foundational software that manage and coordinate
all hardware components in a computer or device.
They serve as an intermediary between applications
and hardware, handling tasks such as memory
management, file system operations, and device
communication.
• Common operating systems include Windows,
macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Applications: Application software, often referred to as "apps," includes a
wide range of programs that serve specific purposes and tasks. These can
be tailored to business, personal, or educational needs. Examples of
application software encompass:
• Word Processing Software: Such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and
LibreOffice Writer, used for creating and editing text documents.
• Web Browsers: Like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Microsoft Edge,
designed for internet browsing and access to online content.
• Spreadsheets: Such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice
Calc, used for data analysis and organization.
• Graphic Design Software: Like Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW, and GIMP,
for creating and editing images and graphics.
• Database Software: Such as Microsoft Access, MySQL, and Oracle, used
for managing and retrieving structured data.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Development Tools: Development tools and software are
used by software developers to create applications, websites,
and software systems. They include programming languages,
integrated development environments (IDEs), and libraries
that assist in the coding and testing process.
• Security Software: In the realm of ICT, security software is
crucial to protect data and systems from cyber threats. It
includes:
– Antivirus Software: Scans for and removes viruses and malware.
– Firewalls: Protect networks and systems by monitoring and controlling
incoming and outgoing traffic.
– Encryption Software: Secures data by converting it into an unreadable
format and back into readable data only with the right decryption key.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• ICT platforms: in the context of Information
and Communication Technologies (ICT), are
the environments or systems that enable the
delivery of various services and applications.
• These platforms serve as a foundation for a
wide range of digital interactions, data
processing, and communication.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Cloud Computing: Cloud computing is a platform that
provides on-demand access to a shared pool of computing
resources (e.g., servers, storage, databases) over the internet.
It allows users to rent resources as needed, eliminating the
need to invest in and manage physical hardware.
• Mobile Computing: Mobile computing refers to the use of
portable devices like smartphones, tablets, and wearables for
accessing and sharing information and services on the go.
Mobile computing enables users to stay connected, work,
and access applications and data regardless of their location.
It has transformed the way people communicate and
perform tasks. Examples of Mobile Operating Systems: iOS
(Apple), Android (Google).
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Social Media: Social media platforms are online environments
that facilitate social networking, content sharing, and
communication. Users can create profiles, connect with
others, and share various forms of media.
• Examples of Popular Social Media Platforms: Facebook,
Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube.
• Internet of Things (IoT):The Internet of Things is a network of
interconnected physical objects or devices (things) that are
embedded with sensors, software, and network connectivity.
These devices collect and exchange data over the internet.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Other ICT Platforms: Beyond the four major
platforms mentioned above, there are numerous
other ICT platforms that cater to specific needs:
– E-commerce Platforms: Enable online buying and selling
(e.g., Shopify, Woo Commerce).
– Content Management Systems (CMS): Facilitate the
creation and management of websites and online content
(e.g., WordPress, Drupal).
– Business Process Automation (BPA) Platforms: Streamline
and automate business processes (e.g., Salesforce,
Microsoft Power Automate).
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Local Area Network (LAN): LANs are used to connect devices
within a limited geographic area, such as a home, office, or
campus. They facilitate the sharing of resources like printers
and data.
• Wide Area Network (WAN): WANs connect devices over
larger geographical distances, often spanning cities, states, or
even countries. The internet is a global WAN.
• Wireless Networks: These include Wi-Fi (for wireless LANs)
and cellular networks (3G, 4G, 5G) for mobile devices.
• Internet: The global network of interconnected LANs and
WANs, providing access to a vast array of online resources.
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Local Data Storage:
• Hard Disk Drives (HDDs): These are traditional storage
devices that use spinning disks to store data. They are
commonly found in desktop and laptop computers.
• Solid-State Drives (SSDs): SSDs use flash memory and have no
moving parts. They are faster and more durable than HDDs.
SSDs are commonly found in laptops, tablets, and
smartphones.
• External Storage Devices: USB drives, external hard drives,
and memory cards provide additional storage that can be ea
 Information and Communication
Technologies (ICT):
• Cloud Storage Services: These services store data on remote
servers that can be accessed over the internet. Users can
upload, download, and synchronize data from any device with
internet access.
– Examples of Cloud Storage Services: Dropbox, Google Drive, iCloud,
Microsoft OneDrive.
• Benefits of Cloud Storage:
– Accessibility from anywhere with an internet connection.
– Scalability to meet changing storage needs.
– Backup and data recovery options.
– Collaboration and sharing features.