WGU D322 /C182 Introduction
to IT STUDY GUIDE
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS–
Information Technology as a Discipline.
What is the role/purpose of a System Administrator?
o They are like the "caretakers" of a computer system or network. Their job is to ensure that
computers and servers run smoothly. They handle tasks like installing software, managing
user accounts, and troubleshooting technical issues. – chatgpt
What is the role/purpose of a Database Administrator?
o DBAs are like the librarians of data. They manage databases where organizations store
their important information. Their job is to ensure data is organized, accessible, secure, and
backed up. They also optimize database performance.
What is the role/purpose of a Web Administrator?
o Think of them as the custodians of websites. They maintain and update websites, making
sure they are available, functional, and secure. They might handle tasks like content
updates, server management, and security.
What is the role/purpose of a Network Administrator?
o Network administrators are like the traffic cops of a company's network. They set up and
manage the communication between devices in an organization. They ensure that data
can flow smoothly and securely across the network.
Which administrator role/purpose is responsible for administering hardware within your work
environment?
o Hardware Administrator (Not a standard title, but it refers to administrators responsible for
hardware)
o These administrators take care of the physical equipment, like computers, servers, and
peripherals. They ensure hardware is properly maintained, repaired, and upgraded when
needed.
,Data and Information.
What is Data vs. Information?
o Data
▪ Consists of raw facts and figures that are processed into information
o Information
▪ Is data that has been summarized or otherwise manipulated for use in
decision making
What is Information Systems vs. Information Technology?
o Information Systems
▪ Is a system that uses resources of people, hardware, software, and
communication technology to perform iPSO
▪ A collection of data and information used to support the management of
an organization. Also refers to the technical components and human
resources that enable the assembly, storage, and processing of data and
the delivery of information. This has existed for a lot longer than
computers.
o Information Technology
▪ It is the technology used to create, maintain, and make information
accessible
▪ Is a general term that describes any technology that helps produce,
manipulate, store, communicate, and or disseminate information.
▪ IT merges computing with high-speed communication links carrying data,
sounds, and video.
What are the characteristics of quality data?
o Relevance - the data being used must apply directly to the decision being made
o Timely - data must be efficient and must be provided in a timely manner
o Thorough - the data must be complete
o Accurate - data should be captured only once, where possible and should be
captured as close to the point of activity as possible.
o Reliable - data should reflect stable and consistent data collection processes
across collections points and over time
, Computer Systems.
What is the purpose of I/O Subsystems?
What is IPSO - Input, Process, Output, Storage?
o Input
▪ Raw data is entered by the user
o Process
▪ Raw data is organized or structured for usefulness
▪ Processing collects and translates data into useful information,
o Output
▪ Information is output so user can see results
o Storage
▪ Processed information is stored for permanent record
▪ Places the translated data in specific locations
What is Hardware vs. Software?
o Hardware
▪ Consists of all the machinery and equipment in a computer system
▪ tangible
o Software
▪ Or programs, consists of all the electronic instructions that tell the
computer how to perform a task
System software
o Controls the computer and os, device drivers, and talks to
the hardware
Application software
o Programs to help users perform business functions, spread
sheets, word process, ordering systems, and accounts
receivable.
What is a Network?
o Is a a group of 2 or more computer systems linked together.
o Consist of 5 basic components
▪ Terminals
include video display terminals and other end user workstations. .
Any input/output device that uses a network to transmit or receive
data is a terminal
.Telecommunication processors
