Introduction to Object Oriented Programming: Java

Learning to program can be a fun and rewarding experience. You can take your ideas and bring them to life within a programming environment. There are many languages to learn out there these days, but we’ll start with the basics to ensure we don’t get overwhelmed. Java is an object-oriented language used by coders of all experience levels, which allows you to create web and mobile applications. It’s among the most common languages used today, alongside Python or C#.

To start coding, you will first need to download an independent development environment (IDE). There are many out there to choose from, but as someone who plans to learn languages in the future, I recommend utilizing Visual Studio Code. This program allows users to install extensions for many languages, such as Java, providing endless possibilities for learning.

Once you’re ready to get started, you can follow the steps within Java VSC to create programs such as Hello World, a simple yet great introductory program, to mark your first step in your development journey. After you feel comfortable with the basics, be sure to take a look at the endless resources out there to take you from a beginner to an expert!

 

Happy Coding! 

Fundamentals of Operating Systems

Operating systems (OS) are the foundation of every computer. At first glance, the operating system seems like software that lets you use a laptop, but it's doing much more than that under the surface. They constantly manage memory, organize your files, handle input and output devices, and ensure users and programs only access the resources they are allowed to. No matter what operating system you use, it's essential that the hardware and users can work together in a reliable, secure, and efficient way.

Quantum Computing: The Majorana One Chip

     As humans continue to evolve, the tools we use continue to evolve with us. Today, we rely heavily on computers to ensure we are able to perform our everyday tasks. From embedded computers within our household that we don't even realize are there to supercomputers that execute trillions of instructions per second to solve some of the most complex scientific questions (Vahid & Lysecky, 2019), computers are indeed the core of our existence in the modern world. However, when it comes down to it, we are only at the starting line for what computers can truly accomplish. Every day, we are finding new ways to revolutionize the computer science and information technology industry.

Network Security

POD and DDOS Attacks

    The Ping command is a handy tool for troubleshooting. The command sends packets of information to an organization's IP address/domain and requests an echoed response, allowing the user to ensure no connection issues. When used maliciously, it can wreak havoc on a network system. These attacks are referred to as Ping of Death (POD), a type of denial-of-service (DOS) attack (Newman, 2024). Attackers overwhelm the targets' system with packet requests, often from multiple compromised systems, causing an abrupt increase in traffic on the network and servers. This causes the system to become slow for the typical site user, eventually crashing the entire system.

Computers in Telecommunications: Customer Service

    Individuals within customer service heavily depend on computers to perform their daily tasks. This is arguably more prevalent within telecommunications than other customer service jobs. From the front-line customer service employees to the senior leadership members, every individual relies on their computer to review accounts, troubleshoot device and network issues, and assist customers with obtaining new products and services. The web-based softphones act as a portal for connecting customers with their representatives to address concerns about their services and accounts. Computers also bridge the gap between employees across the company, up to the executives, providing a line of communication for changes within the business.

Traveling Through a Network

   Ping and Traceroute help diagnose internet connection issues. Both commands send packets through a network; Ping ensures the packets reach the destination, requesting a response and calculating the roundtrip time in milliseconds. In comparison, a Traceroute sends packets to the destination and maps (or traces) their path, showing each router/hop they hit along the way and giving a more detailed idea of where a connection was unsuccessful regarding a connection issue. These insights allow for a troubleshooter to determine if there is an issue with the connection between the computers and where that issue may lie, allowing for a more advanced look into the device's connection. 

Computer Applications

   
    As technology continues to expand, so do the applications we use. Today, there are millions of applications that are essential to businesses, schools, and even the everyday person. The most commonly used computer-based applications are word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, and databases. Each has its own unique use and offers endless possibilities for users to store information that can be shared with those around them. Computer applications enable us to quickly and efficiently store data, providing us with tools we need to excel in our day-to-day lives, but there can be challenges when learning how to utilize them to their fullest potential.