Jom support program pelajar

Summary

 

Keywords

• Cybercrime
• Malware
• Social Engineering
• Firewall
• VPN
• Backup
• Authentication
• Biometrics
• 2FA
• Encryption
• Privacy
• Green Computing
• Disaster Recovery
• Digital Inclusion

Digital Inclusion

 Digital inclusion ensures everyone has access to digital technologies regardless of background.

Goals

• Access to education
• Employment opportunities
• Government services
• Healthcare information

---

Barriers

Barrier	Example
Geographic limitations	Rural areas without Internet
Cost	Expensive devices
Government restrictions	Limited access
Lack of education	Low digital literacy

Disaster Recovery Planning

A disaster recovery plan helps organisations restore operations after disruptions.

---

Components

Emergency Plan

Immediate response procedures.

Backup Plan

Protects important data.

Recovery Plan

Restores systems.

Test Plan

Ensures plans work effectively.

Organisational Policies for Safety

Organisations implement policies to ensure safe technology use.

---

Code of Conduct

Guidelines on acceptable technology behaviour.

Examples:

• No cyberbullying.
• No illegal downloads.
• Respect intellectual property.

---

Content Filtering

Restricts access to inappropriate websites.

Examples:

• Gambling sites
• Adult content
• Harmful websites

---

Employee Monitoring

Employers may monitor:

• Email usage
• Internet browsing
• Productivity

Protecting Personal Information

Students should:

✓ Think before posting online.

✓ Review privacy settings.

✓ Avoid sharing sensitive details.

✓ Use strong passwords.

✓ Monitor financial transactions.

✓ Report suspicious activities.

Information Privacy

 Information privacy refers to controlling how personal information is collected and used.

---

Authentication

Verifying that users are genuine.

Methods

a) Password

Secret characters known only to users.

---

b) Biometrics

Uses unique body characteristics.

Examples:

• Fingerprint
• Face recognition
• Iris scan
• Voice recognition

---

c) Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)

Combines two methods.

Example:

Password + SMS code.

Benefit

Provides stronger security.

---

d) CAPTCHA

Distinguishes humans from automated programs.

Example:

Typing distorted letters shown on screen.

---

e) Encryption

Converts readable information into coded information.

Only authorized users can decrypt it.

Wireless Security

 

Risks of Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi may expose users to:

• Data theft
• Malware attacks
• Unauthorized monitoring

---

Safety Tips

✓ Use trusted networks

✓ Avoid online banking on public Wi-Fi

✓ Use strong Wi-Fi passwords

✓ Enable encryption

✓ Update router settings

✓ Secure router location

Access Controls and Backup

Access Control

Limits who can access information.

Examples:

• User accounts
• Passwords
• Permissions

---

Audit Trail

Records activities performed in a system.

Examples:

• Login attempts
• Data modifications

Purpose:

• Monitoring
• Investigation

---

Backup

Copies of important data.

Types of Backup

Backup Type	Meaning
Full Backup	Copies everything
Differential Backup	Copies changes since full backup
Incremental Backup	Copies changes since last backup
Selective Backup	User chooses files
Continuous Backup	Real-time backup

Secure IT: Protect Yourself and Your Data

 

Digital Footprint

A record of everything you do online.

Examples:

• Social media posts
• Comments
• Online purchases
• Search history

Important

Digital footprints are difficult to erase permanently.

---

Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN creates a secure connection over public networks.

Benefits

• Protects transmitted data
• Enhances privacy
• Allows secure remote access

---

Firewall

A security system that filters incoming and outgoing network traffic.

Purpose

• Blocks unauthorized access
• Protects sensitive information

Protecting Against Malware

 Good security practices include:

✓ Install antivirus software

✓ Use firewalls

✓ Avoid suspicious emails

✓ Download software carefully

✓ Scan USB drives

✓ Backup data regularly

✓ Keep software updated

Internet and Network Attacks

 

Malware

Malware means malicious software designed to harm computers.

---

Types of Malware

Malware	Description
Adware	Displays advertisements
Ransomware	Locks files and demands payment
Rootkit	Hides malicious activities
Spyware	Secretly collects information
Trojan Horse	Disguised as legitimate software
Virus	Replicates and damages systems

---

Botnet

A group of infected computers controlled remotely.

These computers are called:

Zombie computers

Used to attack other systems.

---

Denial-of-Service (DoS)

Overloads a server so legitimate users cannot access services.

Distributed DoS (DDoS)

Many infected devices attack simultaneously.

---

Spoofing

Pretending to be someone else.

Examples

• Fake email addresses
• Fake IP addresses

Ethics and Society

 

Ethics

Ethics are standards that determine whether actions are right or wrong.

Technology ethics guide responsible use of:

• Computers
• Smartphones
• Information systems

---

Information Accuracy

Information should be:

• Correct
• Reliable
• Complete
• Up-to-date

Example

Editing photos to spread false information is unethical.

---

Intellectual Property Rights

Rights protecting creators' work.

Examples:

• Books
• Music
• Movies
• Software

Copyright Infringement

Using others' work without permission.

Example:

Downloading pirated movies.

---

Green Computing

Using technology in environmentally friendly ways.

Practices

✓ Turn off unused devices

✓ Use energy-saving equipment

✓ Reduce printing

✓ Recycle electronic waste

✓ Use online meetings

Social Engineering

 Social engineering tricks people into revealing confidential information.

Common Techniques

Technique	Meaning
Authority	Pretending to be a boss
Threat	Using fear
Scarcity	Limited-time offers
Urgency	Immediate action needed
Familiarity	Acting as someone you know
Trust	Building confidence

Example

"Your bank account will be blocked unless you click this link immediately."

Cybercrime and Cybercriminals

 

Cybercrime

Cybercrime refers to illegal activities carried out using computers or the Internet.

Examples

• Identity theft
• Online scams
• Credit card fraud
• Hacking
• Phishing

---

Types of Cybercriminals

a) Hacker

Someone who gains unauthorized access to a computer system.

b) Cracker

A hacker with malicious intentions such as:

• Stealing information
• Destroying data

c) Script Kiddie

An inexperienced person using ready-made hacking tools.

d) Hacktivist

An attacker motivated by political or social beliefs.

e) Cyberterrorist

Uses technology to create fear and disrupt society.

Risks Associated with Technology Use

 

What is Risk?

A risk is the possibility that something harmful may happen, causing injury, loss, or damage.

Digital Security Risk

A digital security risk is any event that may cause damage to:

• Computer hardware
• Software
• Data
• Information
• Processing capability

Examples

Situation	Risk
Clicking suspicious links	Malware infection
Sharing passwords	Account hacking
Using weak passwords	Unauthorized access
Downloading unknown software	Virus attack

Learning Outcomes

 At the end of this topic, students should be able to:

1. Explain risks associated with technology use.
2. Identify cybercrimes and cybercriminals.
3. Discuss ethics and privacy issues.
4. Describe Internet and network attacks.
5. Explain methods to protect digital information.
6. Identify wireless security practices.
7. Understand authentication methods.
8. Explain organisational policies for digital safety.

Key Terms

 

Term	Simple Meaning
Network	A group of connected devices
Node	A device connected to a network
LAN	A network within a limited area
WAN	A network covering a large geographic area
PAN	A network around an individual
Topology	The arrangement of devices in a network
Server	A computer that provides resources
Client	A device that requests resources
Router	A device that connects networks
Switch	A device that sends data to the intended recipient
Modem	A device that connects a network to an ISP
Protocol	Rules for communication
TCP/IP	Protocol family used for Internet communication
Wi-Fi	Wireless network technology
Bluetooth	Short-distance wireless communication technology
RFID	Technology used for identification and tracking
NFC	Very short-range communication technology
VPN	A secure connection to a private network
Firewall	A security barrier that controls network traffic
Encryption	Converting readable data into coded form
Authentication	Verifying a user’s identity

Ethical Responsibilities of a Network Professional

 A network administrator may have access to confidential information. Therefore, the administrator must behave professionally and ethically.

Important Ethical Principles

Principle	Explanation
Professionalism	Perform duties carefully and responsibly
Personal integrity	Act honestly and avoid misuse of access privileges
Compliance with laws and policies	Follow organisational rules and legal requirements
Communication	Explain issues clearly to users and management
System integrity	Protect systems from damage or unauthorised changes
Social responsibility	Consider the impact of technical decisions on others
Privacy	Protect users’ personal and confidential information

Role of a Network Administrator

 A network administrator is responsible for ensuring that a network functions effectively and securely.

Main Responsibilities

Responsibility	Example
Planning	Identifying the network requirements of an organisation
Designing	Selecting an appropriate network structure
Purchasing	Obtaining routers, switches, servers and cables
Installing	Setting up devices and software
Securing	Applying passwords, firewalls and encryption
Maintaining	Updating equipment and solving technical problems
Monitoring	Checking network performance and unusual activity
Supporting users	Assisting employees who experience connection problems

Detecting Unauthorised Wi-Fi Users

 To determine whether an unknown person is using a wireless network:

1. Sign in to the router’s administrative interface.
2. View the list of connected devices.
3. Compare the list with known devices.
4. Remove unfamiliar devices.
5. Change the Wi-Fi password.
6. Ensure that encryption and firewall settings are activated.
7. Update the router software.

Network Security Tools

 

29.1 Encryption

Encryption changes readable data into coded data.

Only authorised users with the correct key can read the information.

Example

When a student uses a secure website to submit an assignment, encryption helps protect the data during transmission.

---

29.2 Authentication

Authentication verifies the identity of a user.

Examples:

• Username and password
• One-time password
• Fingerprint scan
• Facial recognition
• Security token

---

29.3 Firewall

A firewall monitors and controls network traffic.

It acts like a security checkpoint between a private network and the Internet.

---

29.4 Biometric Devices

Biometric devices identify users based on physical characteristics.

Examples:

• Fingerprint scanner
• Facial recognition system
• Iris scanner

---

29.5 Network-Attached Storage

Network-Attached Storage (NAS) is a storage device connected to a network.

It allows authorised users to store and retrieve files centrally.

Benefits

• Centralised storage
• Easier file sharing
• Easier backup management
• Controlled access

---

29.6 Network Monitoring Software

Network monitoring software observes the status and performance of a network.

It may help administrators:

• Monitor traffic volume
• Identify unusual activity
• Detect network failures
• Measure bandwidth usage
• Identify overloaded devices

---

29.7 Packet Sniffer

A packet sniffer monitors and records network traffic for analysis.

It may be used ethically by authorised administrators for troubleshooting and security monitoring.

Common Network Risks

Risk	Explanation
Adware	Displays unwanted advertisements
Spyware	Collects and transmits information without the user’s knowledge
Virus	Damages files or changes system settings
Worm	Spreads through computers or networks without requiring much user interaction
Trojan	Appears legitimate but contains harmful code
Ransomware	Locks files or systems and demands payment
Rootkit	Allows hidden administrator-level access to a device

Key Difference: Virus Versus Worm

Virus	Worm
Usually attaches itself to a file or program	Can spread automatically through a network
Often requires user action	May spread without direct user action

Basic Security Measures

 

Security Measure	Purpose
Change the default router password	Prevents unauthorised access to router settings
Use a strong Wi-Fi password	Reduces the risk of unauthorised users joining the network
Enable encryption	Protects data transmitted over the network
Update router software	Fixes known security weaknesses
Activate the firewall	Blocks suspicious access attempts
Check connected devices	Helps detect unknown users
Use authentication controls	Ensures that only authorised users gain access
Back up important data	Reduces the impact of data loss

Why Is Network Security Important?

 A network may contain valuable and sensitive information, such as:

• Personal details
• Passwords
• Financial records
• Customer information
• Academic documents
• Business plans

Wireless networks are particularly vulnerable because signals may be accessible from outside the building.

Improving a Weak Wi-Fi Signal

 If the signal is weak:

• Place the router in a central location.
• Avoid placing the router behind large furniture or thick walls.
• Extend the router antenna fully, when applicable.
• Use a Wi-Fi booster, repeater or mesh system.
• Replace outdated network hardware when necessary.
• Reduce unnecessary interference from nearby devices.

Adding a Wireless Printer

 A wireless printer can be shared by several computers and mobile devices.

Steps

1. Place the printer within range of the Wi-Fi network.
2. Switch on the printer.
3. Open the printer’s network settings.
4. Select the correct Wi-Fi network.
5. Enter the network password.
6. Install the required printer application or driver.
7. Send a test document.

Basic Steps to Set Up a Wireless Network

 

Step 1: Connect the Hardware

• Connect the modem to the Internet service.
• Connect the router to the modem.
• Switch on the devices.

Step 2: Configure the Wireless Network

• Enable the wireless function.
• Create a network name, also known as the SSID.
• Create a strong Wi-Fi password.
• Activate encryption.

Step 3: Connect the Devices

• Enable Wi-Fi on the laptop or smartphone.
• Search for the network name.
• Select the correct SSID.
• Enter the Wi-Fi password.
• Test the connection.

Basic Equipment Required

 A wireless home network normally requires:

1. A modem
2. A router or wireless router
3. A wireless access point, when needed
4. Devices to be connected
5. An Internet service subscription

The home-network setup diagram in the uploaded module illustrates how a modem, router, wireless access point and end-user devices work together.

Common Hardware Devices

 

21.1 Node

A node is any device connected to a network.

Examples:

• Laptop
• Smartphone
• Printer
• Server
• Tablet

---

21.2 Hub

A hub is a central connection point for devices in a network.

When a hub receives data, it transfers the data to all connected devices.

Key Limitation

A hub is less efficient because every device receives the transmitted data, even when the data is intended for only one device.

---

21.3 Switch

A switch connects devices within a network and sends data only to the intended recipient.

Hub	Switch
Sends data to all connected devices	Sends data to the intended device
Less efficient	More efficient
Older and less secure approach	More commonly used in modern networks

---

21.4 Router

A router connects two or more networks and directs data to the correct destination.

For example, a home router connects a local home network to the Internet.

Analogy

A router works like a traffic controller. It determines the correct route for each data packet.

---

21.5 Modem

A modem connects a computer or network to a communications channel, such as an Internet service.

A modem may connect a home or business network to an Internet Service Provider (ISP).

Common Types of Modems

Type	Description
Cable modem	Uses a cable television connection
DSL modem	Uses existing telephone wiring
Fibre modem or optical network terminal	Uses fibre-optic technology
Mobile broadband modem	Uses a cellular network

Some technologies discussed in the original module, such as ISDN, ATM and T-carrier lines, are useful for understanding the development of networking but are less common in ordinary home networks today.

---

21.6 Wireless Access Point

A wireless access point allows wireless devices to connect to a network.

It is commonly used in:

• Offices
• Universities
• Hotels
• Shopping centres
• Large homes

---

Hardware Comparison Table

Device	Main Purpose
Node	Participates in the network
Hub	Connects devices and broadcasts data
Switch	Connects devices and sends data to the correct device
Router	Connects different networks
Modem	Connects a network to an ISP
Wireless access point	Provides wireless network access

NFC

 NFC stands for Near-Field Communication.

It is designed for communication over a very short distance.

Examples

• Contactless debit or credit card payments
• Smartphone payments
• Electronic tickets
• Access cards
• NFC tags used to share simple information

RFID Versus NFC

Aspect	RFID	NFC
Typical purpose	Tracking and identification	Very short-range interaction and payment
Example	Toll tag	Contactless card payment
Communication range	Can vary depending on the system	Usually very short

RFID

 RFID stands for Radio Frequency Identification.

RFID uses radio signals to identify or track an object, animal or person.

Main Components

Component	Function
RFID tag	Stores information
RFID reader	Reads information from the tag
Computer system	Processes and stores the information

Examples

• Inventory tracking in a warehouse
• Electronic toll collection
• Access cards
• Tracking equipment
• Product identification

The RFID toll-collection diagram in the uploaded module shows how a tag attached to a vehicle communicates with a reader at a tollbooth. 

Bluetooth

 Bluetooth is suitable for short-distance connections between devices.

Examples

• Connecting wireless earphones to a smartphone
• Connecting a smartphone to a car audio system
• Sending files between nearby devices
• Connecting a wireless keyboard or mouse
• Connecting a smartwatch to a smartphone

Pairing Process

Before two Bluetooth devices communicate, they normally need to be paired.

Typical steps:

1. Enable Bluetooth on both devices.
2. Search for nearby devices.
3. Select the correct device name.
4. Enter or confirm the passkey, if required.
5. Test the connection.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages	Disadvantages
No cable is required	Limited range
Easy to use	Security risks may arise if settings are not controlled
Suitable for personal devices	Not ideal for very large file transfers
Energy efficient for many applications	Interference may affect performance

Common Short-Distance and Wireless Technologies

 

Technology	Main Function	Example
Bluetooth	Connects devices over a short distance	Wireless headphones connected to a smartphone
Wi-Fi	Connects devices to a local network or the Internet wirelessly	Laptop connected to a home router
NFC	Enables very short-range communication	Contactless payment using a smartphone
RFID	Uses radio signals to identify and track objects	Toll payment tag or inventory tracking
UWB	Supports short-range communication with precise location capabilities	Tracking nearby devices
IrDA	Uses infrared signals and usually requires a direct path	Traditional television remote control
LTE	Supports mobile data communication through cellular networks	Smartphone Internet access

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi allows devices to communicate wirelessly using radio waves.

Wi-Fi networks are commonly used in:

• Homes
• Offices
• Campuses
• Restaurants
• Hotels
• Airports

Wi-Fi is based on the IEEE 802.11 family of standards. Different versions provide different levels of speed, range and performance.

TCP/IP

 TCP/IP stands for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol.

It is a major family of protocols used for communication over the Internet.

Component	Main Function
TCP	Helps manage the transmission of data
IP	Helps identify devices and route data to the correct destination

Every device connected to a network requires an IP address.

Two Common Versions of IP Addresses

Version	Meaning
IPv4	Internet Protocol version 4
IPv6	Internet Protocol version 6

What Is a Protocol?

A protocol is a set of rules that governs communication between devices.

A protocol may define:

• The format of data
• The sequence in which data is sent
• Error-handling procedures
• Coding methods
• How devices identify one another

Analogy

A protocol is similar to a language used during a conversation. Communication becomes difficult when two people use different rules or languages.

What Is a Network Standard?

A network standard provides guidelines on how computers and devices communicate.

Standards may specify:

• The type of hardware used
• The type of cable or wireless technology required
• Data transmission speeds
• How devices connect to the network

Classification by Geographic Reach

 Networks can also be classified according to the area they cover.

Type	Full Name	Coverage Area	Example
BAN	Body Area Network	Very small area around the human body	Smartwatch connected to a health sensor
PAN	Personal Area Network	Around an individual user	Smartphone connected to wireless earbuds
LAN	Local Area Network	Limited area such as a room, office or building	Computer laboratory network
WLAN	Wireless Local Area Network	LAN using wireless connections	Home Wi-Fi network
MAN	Metropolitan Area Network	A city or large urban area	Network linking government offices within a city
WAN	Wide Area Network	Large geographic area	Network connecting company branches in different states

Simple Memory Technique

• PAN = Personal
• LAN = Local
• MAN = Metropolitan
• WAN = Wide area

Network Architecture

 

11.1 Client/Server Network

In a client/server network, one or more computers act as servers. Other devices, known as clients, request resources from the servers.

Term	Meaning
Server	A computer that provides resources or services
Client	A computer or device that requests resources from a server

Examples

• A student accesses lecture notes from a university server.
• An employee retrieves customer information from a company database.
• Several employees send documents to a network printer.

Advantages:

• Data can be managed centrally
• Security controls can be applied consistently
• Backup procedures are easier to organise

Limitation:

• A server failure may affect many users

---

11.2 Peer-to-Peer Network

A peer-to-peer (P2P) network allows devices to communicate directly with one another.

Each computer may share its own resources without relying on a central server.

Computer A  ↔  Computer B
     ↕              ↕
Computer C  ↔  Computer D

Advantages:

• Simple to set up
• Suitable for a small number of computers
• Lower initial cost

Limitations:

• Security is more difficult to control
• File management may become disorganised
• Backup procedures may not be consistent

Important Ethical Reminder

Users must not share copyright-protected files illegally through peer-to-peer networks.

Network Topologies

 

A network topology describes how devices are arranged and connected.

10.1 Bus Network

In a bus network, all devices are connected to a central cable called a bus.

Computer ─── Printer ─── Server ─── Computer
              Main Cable

Advantages:

• Simple structure
• Requires fewer cables

Limitations:

• If the main cable fails, communication may stop
• Performance may decrease when many devices are connected

---

10.2 Ring Network

In a ring network, devices are connected in a circular arrangement. Data moves sequentially from one device to another.

Computer ─── Computer
   │             │
Printer ───── Server

Advantages:

• Data follows an organised path

Limitations:

• Failure of one device may interrupt communication
• Troubleshooting can be difficult

---

10.3 Star Network

In a star network, every device is connected to a central device, such as a switch or router.

           Computer
               │
Printer ─── Router ─── Laptop
               │
           Smartphone

Advantages:

• Easy to add or remove devices
• Failure of one connected device does not normally affect the other devices
• Easier to manage

Limitation:

• If the central device fails, the network may stop functioning

---

10.4 Mesh Network

In a mesh network, devices are interconnected using multiple paths.

Computer A ─── Computer B
    │  ╲           ╱  │
    │    ╲       ╱    │
    │      ╲   ╱      │
Computer C ─── Computer D

Advantages:

• Provides alternative communication routes
• More reliable if one connection fails

Limitations:

• More complex to install
• May require more equipment and cables

The uploaded module illustrates these four network topologies using diagrams: bus, mesh, ring and star structures.

Three Ways to Describe a Network

 A network can be described according to:

Aspect	Explanation
Topology	The physical or logical arrangement of devices
Network architecture	The way devices perform their roles and share resources
Geographic reach	The physical area covered by the network

Wired, Wireless and Cellular Networks

 

Network Type	How It Works	Example
Wired network	Uses physical cables to transmit data	Ethernet connection in a computer laboratory
Wireless network	Uses radio waves instead of cables	Wi-Fi connection at home
Cellular or mobile network	Uses mobile communication infrastructure	Smartphone connection using a mobile data plan

Advantages of Wired Networks

• Stable connection
• Suitable for high-volume data transmission
• Less affected by physical obstacles
• Usually easier to control within an office

Advantages of Wireless Networks

• Users can move around freely
• Fewer cables are required
• Convenient for smartphones and tablets
• Suitable for homes, cafés and classrooms

Limitations of Wireless Networks

• Signals may weaken over long distances
• Walls and other physical obstacles may affect performance
• Unauthorised users may attempt to access the network
• Additional equipment may be needed to strengthen the signal

Intranet, Extranet and VPN

 

Term	Meaning	Example
Intranet	An internal network that uses Internet technologies but is accessible only to authorised users within an organisation	A university staff portal
Extranet	A controlled part of an organisation’s network that can be accessed by selected external users	A supplier accessing an inventory system
VPN	A Virtual Private Network that allows a user to access an organisation’s network securely from another location	An employee accessing office files while working from home

Important Point

A VPN normally uses security technologies such as encryption to protect data during transmission.