Post #7 - Tech Topic Connection

 




Cybersecurity: Connecting IT Fundamentals

This course has helped to start viewing Cybersecurity as more than just protecting passwords. Cybersecurity is a core part of how modern technology works for us on today. As I’ve learned in TEC 101, cybersecurity connects to every major aspect in information technology, from hardware and software to networks and databases. In this post, I’ll show how cybersecurity actually ties into the fundamentals of IT and why it matters for small businesses like mine.


History and Operation of Computers

Cybersecurity has grown alongside the history of computers. Early machines were pretty much isolated, but today’s systems are connected to global networks which now makes them more vulnerable. Understanding how computers operate from binary code to operating systems is what helps to explain how threats like malware and phishing attacks work.


Hardware Components

Cybersecurity also depends on hardware like routers, firewalls, and servers. These devices manage data flow and protect against unauthorized access. If hardware is outdated or misconfigured, it can become a weak point for any corporation or organization. Connolly et al. (2020) found that poor system maintenance often leads to ransomware attacks, showing how hardware and security go hand in hand.


Programming Languages

When I began this academic journey, I vowed to stay clear from programming. Since then, I have actually begun to learn that Security tools are built using languages like Python and C++. These programs work to detect threats, encrypt data, and monitor systems. to understand how programs run, whether compiled or interpreted helps identify how malware spreads and how to stop it.


Application Software


Software like antivirus tools, password managers, and monitoring apps play a major role in cybersecurity. Even business apps that I have worked with in my small business like GorillaDesk or ServiceTitan need secure logins and encrypted data to protect customer information.


Database Management


Databases store all of the super sensitive data like customer records and billing info. Protecting the private information of my clients is one most important aspect of my profession. Cybersecurity ensures these databases are encrypted, backed up, and protected with access controls. A breach in database security can lead to identity theft or financial loss.


Network Architecture and Security

Cybersecurity is deeply tied to network design. Firewalls, VPNs, and secure Wi-Fi setups help protect data in transit. Network monitoring tools detect unusual activity, and segmentation limits how far an attacker can go. Training staff to recognize phishing and smishing attacks is also part of network defense.


My Final Thoughts

Cybersecurity connects to every part of IT—from how computers run to how data moves across networks. TEC 101 helped me understand these connections and gave me the tools to protect my business and prepare for a future in cybersecurity. Whether I’m securing a pest control app or defending a network, I now see how every piece of technology plays a role in keeping systems safe.







References:


Ghazi-Tehrani, A. K., & Pontell, H. N. (2021). Phishing evolves: Analyzing the enduring cybercrime. Victims & Offenders, 16(3), 316–342.

Connolly, L. Y., Wall, D. S., Lang, M., & Oddson, B. (2020). An empirical study of ransomware attacks on organizations: An assessment of severity and salient factors affecting vulnerability. Journal of Cybersecurity, 6(1).

TestOut Corp. (2024). CertMaster Learn Tech+. http://www.testout.com

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Post #2 – My Review of the Samsung Health App

Image
  The Ole Reliable Samsung Health App... For Week 2 of this course, we were given an assignment to discuss a familiar web or mobile application. I chose to review one of my favorite mobile applications which is the Samsung Health mobile application. I have used this app for years to track my fitness goals, sleep patterns, and overall wellness. As someone who values physical health and is learning more about technology, I found this assignment both useful and personal. Usability Samsung Health is one of my favorite applications because it is very easy to use. The home screen allows me to view my daily steps, my heart rate, sleep patterns, and other key health stats. I can also swipe through different sections and customize what I specifically want to track to track. The app also allows me to connect with my smartwatch and other devices, which makes tracking automatic and convenient. Design The design is super clean and simple. It uses calming colors and clear icons works for me. Eac...
Read more

From Pest to Protect: About Me

Image
My Journey from Exterminator to Cyber Defender.... 🧠 Introduction For over two decades, I built my life around solving problems—first with my hands, then with me  business. From crawling under homes to eliminate infestations to mentoring others in pest control, I’ve  always believed in protecting what matters. Now, I’m taking that same mindset into the digital world,  where the threats are invisible but just as real. 🔄 Why the Shift? After years of running a successful pest control company, I felt a pull toward something deeper. I  wanted to protect not just homes, but data, identities, and communities. Cybersecurity isn’t just about  firewalls and passwords—it’s about defending people. That mission aligns perfectly with who I’ve  always been. 🎓 Back to School After 20 Years Enrolling in college again after two decades wasn’t easy. I had doubts. But I also had driven. I’m now  studying Cyber and Data Security Technology at UAGC, learning everything...
Read more

Post #1- " A Programmer in the Making"

Image
  My First Programming Experience with Scratch This week, I created my very first program using Scratch, a beginner programming platform developed by the world-renowned MIT. At first, I was completely clueless on what to do. I’ve built a career working in pest control for years, and now I’m diving into tech!! What was I thinking!!The Scratch platform actually helped me to understand a little bit better and made it easier than I thought. I was able to build a simple animation where my character (called a sprite) moved across the screen, changed costumes, and responded to user input. I actually creating a soccer themed animation!! The drag-and-drop blocks helped me understand basic programming concepts like motion, loops, and events. I was able to learn that the order of blocks matters even if they’re out of place, the program won’t work right. I had to test and fix things until everything ran smoothly. That process of trial and error taught me a lot about problem-solving. One of the...
Read more