Computing
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Stored-Programme Computers
A stored-program computer is a digital computer that keeps its program instructions and data together in the same electronic memory. This revolutionary design allows for the computer to perform a variety of tasks in sequence or intermittently by simply loading new instructions into memory, rather than having to manually rewire hardware as is the case with programmable logic devices.
Such a stored-Program Computer comprises a central processing unit (CPU) and a large bank of memory.
Central Processing Unit
The central processing unit (CPU) is the principal part of any digital computer system, and is generally composed of a handful of memory registers, a control unit, and arithmetic-logic unit. It constitutes the physical heart of the entire computer system and is closely linked to the main memory, various peripheral equipment, including input/output devices and auxiliary storage units, such as hard-disk drives.
In modern computers, the CPU is contained on an integrated circuit chip called a microprocessor, whereas simple, less powerful devices rely on a single-chip microcontroller that contains both a CPU and memory bank.
The control unit of the central processing unit regulates and integrates the operations of the computer. It selects and retrieves instructions from the main memory in proper sequence and interprets them so as to activate the other functional elements of the system at the appropriate moment to perform their respective operations. All input data are transferred via the main memory to the arithmetic-logic unit for processing, which involves the four basic arithmetic functions (i.e., addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) and certain logic operations such as the comparing of data and the selection of the desired problem-solving procedure or a viable alternative based on predetermined decision criteria.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
The RAM is the computer main memory in which specific contents can be accessed (read or written) directly by the central processing unit in a very short time regardless of the sequence (and hence location) in which they were recorded.
Two types of memory are possible with random-access circuits: static RAM (SRAM) and dynamic RAM (DRAM). A single memory chip is made up of several million memory cells. In a SRAM chip each memory cell stores a binary digit (1 or 0) for as long as power is supplied. In a DRAM chip the charge on individual memory cells must be refreshed periodically in order to retain data. Because it has fewer components, DRAM requires less chip area than SRAM. Hence, a DRAM chip can hold more memory, though its access time is slower.
Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These cyberattacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information; extorting money from users; or interrupting normal business processes. Implementing effective cybersecurity measures is particularly challenging today because there are more devices than people, and attackers are becoming more innovative.
Cybersecurity covers many aspects of the modern digital landscape, such as security measures to deliver data protection, information security, application security, network security, cloud security, endpoint device security, and the protection of people—staff, clients, customers, and public users of IT services. Recent technological advancements have opened up new possibilities for cybersecurity, but unfortunately, adversaries have benefited from these advancements, as well.
There are a wide array of professional positions within the cybersecurity field. These positions generally fall into the following categories:
- Application security describes security used by applications with the goal of preventing data or code within the app from being hijacked or stolen. These security systems are implemented during application development but are designed to protect the application after deployment.
- Cloud security involves the technology and procedures that secure cloud computing environments against internal and external threats. These security systems are designed to prevent unauthorized access and keep data and applications in the cloud secure.
- Infrastructure security describes the physical and cyber systems that are so critical to society that their incapacity would have a debilitating impact on our physical, economic, or public health and safety.
- Internet of Things (IoT) security involves the security of any device connected to the internet and/or other connected devices. The IoT is a network of connected things and people, all of which share data about the way they are used and their environments. These devices include appliances, sensors, televisions, routers, printers, and countless other home network devices. Securing these devices is very important, and security is often considered one of the biggest barriers to widespread IoT adoption.
- Network security is the protection of network infrastructure from unauthorized access, abuse, or theft. These security systems involve creating a secure infrastructure in which devices, applications, and users work together.
Applied Computing
Applied computing is a multidisciplinary field that blends the theoretical and practical aspects of computing to solve day-to-day business and industry problems—integrating computing with other subjects such as computer networks, cybersecurity, electrical engineering technology, healthcare, information systems, data science, industrial automation, network administration, robotics, and more.
What's The Difference Between Applied Computing and Computer Science?
Applied computing and computer science are separate disciplines, but there is considerable overlap between the two fields. Applied computing concentrates on real-world applications, such as, how to use skills in a business setting, how to manage technology projects, and how to communicate effectively with other professionals in the workplace. Applied computing professionals work as as software engineers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, electrical engineers, video game designers, and many other professions.
Computer science focuses more on the theoretical underpinnings of computing with knowledge of technical processes and theories, such as algorithms, artificial intelligence, and natural language processing. Computer scientists may also know advanced mathematics to help them understand these theories. Those in the computer science field often pursue advanced degrees, research or teaching positions in academia, or careers in business, industry, and government as research fellows, data scientists, cryptanalytic computer scientists, and more.