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.

Mimo Application Review

This was an application that I began using at the start of my degree but did stop using for quite some time due to focusing on my gen eds. Since I have begun my degree-specific courses recently, I have been using it more often. 

Programming Languages

    Programming languages have been around since the beginning of technology. Growing from simple 1s and 0s, using an on/off switch, to high-level languages such as Python and even languages targeted at very early entry coders such as Scratch. After getting to experience each language, though just briefly, I have found that each language has its own unique benefits. As technology continues to grow, the number of languages has continued to grow with it, but even so, there will always be a need for programmers who have knowledge of the lowest levels of languages.