Network Security

Network Security

For this week's assignment I chose to research the topic of security holes and vulnerabilities in information technology. I’ve also decided to share how these issues affect one of my favorite PlayStation studios known to be Insonmniac Games. Security holes and vulnerabilities tend to pose a significant threat to everyone, including the military, businesses and organizations that are involved in the field of computer technology. These attacks usually affect physical or virtual networks that facilitate the integration of digital interactivity platforms. Singh, Jeong & Hyuk (2016). It's our job to understand these threats as technology advances, remaining up to date on what upcoming tech lies in the market to counter it or develop effective strategies to prevent security breaches that could jeopardize theft of personal information, records or files that may be crucial to everyone surrounding this field. 

Considering, just about each month all hardware and software will potentially need updates to either function well, protect against viruses or outdated apps that could lead to corrupted data. Other potential issues may be unexpected crashes, unrecognizable emails or even a sluggish system performance that might cause severe damages leaving your system vulnerable to be breached. It's important that we continue to practice counter measures, conducting annual training to recognize these threats. Therefore, all employees should continue to update their antivirus software and remember to block malicious spam or emails that could compromise all sensitive information. Human errors can place companies or individuals in legal repercussions. Therefore it's important to avoid user errors that can lead to theft or loss of data
I found this very common that people have the same passwords that are often reused across multiple applications which is fairly easy to remember. I too find myself having this due to laziness and convenience. Note, having this mindset can lead to insider threats, hacks or lockouts that can cause a vast amount of damage to yourself and others. In these cases it is highly recommended to create strong, complex passwords that you should change once every quarter to prevent any vulnerabilities that could expose employee’s financial information, social security or any other frequently used data from applications to be breached.

Some companies or businesses surrounding computer systems sometimes rely on other third party services that can cause various weak security practices. For example, Insomniac Gaming Studios is a studio that creates well polished games for PlayStation. Due to including other studios to help with distribution and training with development of various engines. This led to a breach of their employees personal information and leak of documents causing Sony to have the hacking group turnover all sensitive files or face jail time. This breach led to a significant loss of intellectual property greatly hurting the studios reputation. 

     
Finally, this shows us that we should continue to foster a culture that practices security awareness by maintaining updated hardware and software. To navigate through these challenges we must adopt a proactive approach that includes implementing security practices. This will allow employees to counter these threats recognizing these potential vulnerabilities. Therefore, it's important in understanding these threats as technology advances, continuing updates on future tech or developing effective strategies to prevent security breaches that could jeopardize vital information or files that may be crucial to everyone surrounding this field. 

Reference:
Singh S., Jeong Y., Hyuk J. (2016). A survey on cloud computing security: issues, threats, and solutions. Retrieved from: Sciencedirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/

Pourrahmani H. (2023). A review of the security vulnerabilities and countermeasures in the Internet of Things solutions. Retrieved from: Sciencedirect https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/

Computers In The Workplace

 Computers In The Workplace

For this week's discussion post I decided to write about the tertiary and Quaternary sectors involving the entertainment industry surrounding console games. This is the most influential and dynamic sector in the global economy. Computers and upgraded hardware is what drives the transformation and development of video games ranging for the marketing, distribution and player engagement. It is vital for employees to know the baseline in understanding how to function programs and other various applications with computers creating and delivering quality, immersive experiences for your casual gamer.

At the core of the entertainment industry, development of video games rely on powerful computer hardware. The computers focus on a vast amount of engines assisting with programming, sound design, editing graphics or identifying bugs ensuring the game runs at its best across all platforms. Advertising and distributing also relies on computer hardware such as the network and servers having the capability to deliver video games to a vast amount of players or maintaining player engagement which is important for the longevity of titles that are online only.

Computer literacy is an important asset to employees that are experts with programming or designing video games. If hired in this industry you must have a strong understanding of computer systems being able to troubleshoot issues and or change in technology that could create hurdles in developing the video game. The entertainment industry is forever evolving as we look to the future. Computer hardware and operating systems will continue to shape the industry with new possibilities when it comes to gaming. Each decade promises a new console or game with things we've never imagined being done on screen.

Reference:

Clement J. (2024). Video game industry - Statistics & Facts. Retrieved from: https://www.statista.com/topics/868/video-games/Links to an external site.

Arora K. (2023). The Gaming Industry: A Behemoth With Unprecedented Global Reach. Retrieved from: https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesagencycouncilLinks to an external site.

Traveling Through a Network

Traveling Through a Network

For this assignment I chose network security due to my annual cyber awareness training or any OPSEC (operation security) training in the military when it involves sensitive information. I’m very familiar with this area and know that our network security is always changing. Network security intersects with various career fields such as all branches of service, major private orgs including information technology, computer science and or businesses that handle a vast amount of sensitive information or PII (personally identifiable information) allowing access to records, intel or personal data. Failing to secure these networks could bring legal consequences, theft or destruction to US war fighting capabilities including fines and lawsuits. Therefore, network security safeguards any breaches countering unauthorized access that is critical in defending against outsider threats. As I continue to serve, reaching 16 years I’ve watched technology grow and I’ve seen various tactics from cyber criminals and hackers steal valuable documents to either spread, leak, or hold companies at ransom. Effective network security and cyber awareness practice can help enhance an organization's security posture smoothly even with potential threats. 

Why do I find this so interesting? It's because I believe I have the skill to problem solve and make a difference in countering any activity against any possible threats. Therefore, I’m very aware of the constant evolution of network security changing and staying ready to adapt to new challenges that I may encounter in the future of technology. Finally, with questions I might have, those questions are; Why is it important to maintain network security training for personnel? and What should personnel do if their network becomes compromised? I believe understanding this is an essential part of being familiar with network security which plays a crucial role as this maintains the integrity of our systems and protection of our sensitive data.     

Reference:

Kumar, G., & Kumar, K. (2014). Network security – an updated perspective. Systems Science & Control Engineering, 2(1), 325–334. https://doi.org/10.1080/21642583.2014.895969

Blog URL: https://www.blogger.com/blog/posts/7462533597717434167

Blog URL “about” page:https://yourbasichero.blogspot.com/

Documenting a Day

Documenting a Day

In both a professional and personal environment I’ve used every software application listed. Starting with the application that the majority of students and professionals use which comes naturally with beginning and completing word documents is the Word Processors. This application takes advantage of editing and formatting documents for essays, journal entries, letters or the traditional papers. The application is also equipped with grammar correction, spell check and other unique formatting options. I’m still behind the curve on google docs but I’m slowly managing to make proper adjustments when using it. Google sheets also gave me trouble which is similar to Microsoft excel being the cousin to the spreadsheet software. Both applications allow the user to create graphs or analyze data through formulas. They’re also very useful to companies for budgeting, financial reports, and data organization. Furthermore, Google Slides and Microsoft Power point are the best tools for creating presentations. They provide a platform that allows the user to create a visually appealing presentation of animated text, graphs or images to make information more intriguing. Presenting these are usually used in a Corporate, educational or military setting, presenting tasks, reports or ideas. Finally, the applications that I believe are too complicated to use are MySQL and Microsoft Access which are used for managing large amounts of data. These applications organize data through tables, forms, reports and queries making both tools efficient for managing information. The advantages for the Word Processor and Spreadsheet are quite similar. They’re both pretty easy to use with editing and formatting but the Spreadsheet has a major learning curve that may lead to complex formulas. The presentation and database application has the ability to share or manage a large volume of information. The disadvantages for the presentation may lead to distractions when presenting. However, database applications may be too complex to manage. Among all the applications I’ve shared, Word Processor is still the best application for writing and editing reports.   

Reference:

Microsoft. (n.d.) .Word.Retrieved from https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/word

Google. (n.d.) .Google Sheets. Retrieved from https://www.google.com/sheets/about/

Microsoft. (n.d.) .PowerPoint. Retrieved from https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/powerpoint

Microsoft. (n.d.). Access. Retrieved from https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/access

Web/Mobile App Critique

Web/Mobile App Critique

While reviewing other popular apps I’ve decided to evaluate the usability, design, and functionality of Sony's PlayStation app. The PlayStation brand has consistently offered a premium experience after five console releases. Therefore, The PS app provides a gateway to explore the PlayStation brand, allowing new users to stay engaged with what Sony is offering the consumers. This app could be accessed through phones and tablets which is vital to hardcore gamer's worldwide allowing them to stay connected with friends of their ecosystem. You also have the ability to access the PlayStation store or the subscription service that allows you to manage a vast variety of games from PlayStation's library of first party and third party video games. If you're a hardcore gamer or just love tech, here’s a comprehensive look at what users would have when using this app, however I did come across certain issues that I recommend for improvement when using their app. 

The usability of the PlayStation app is relatively simple and easy to navigate for those familiar with their unique user interface. The app layout consists of five sections that may make new users feel slightly overwhelmed navigating their profile, game activities, latest install updates, PlayStation purchases and their catalog of PS plus exclusives available every month. You will also see updates of official news, PS blogs and status of friends online who can be notified once the app is opened.  

When it comes to PlayStation design they’re considered top quality like iPhone, Mercedes Cadillac or Louis Vuitton, considering their standard is top tier quality. The PS app adopts a modern aesthetic that aligns with the brand, displaying similar icons and color palettes. PlayStation's brand is always known for having appealing visuals in terms of console design which is also displayed on their app as well.

My favorite part of this app is extremely important to the user which is the functionality and features. All users can add new content through the user interface or the library once selected for download from the app. This only takes seconds especially if you and your friends pre-order a co-operative game to play once you have time. Downloading or uploading content is definitely something useful while away which is incredibly convenient if the data takes hours to download. Communication is unrivaled on PlayStation, you can send messages, join chat parties and provide guidance with pictures making this app super easy to stay connected with clan members or close friends. This key feature enhances the user’s gaming experience allowing everyone to have the ability to plan their next gaming sessions. 

My recommendations for improvement is having better offline compatibility when downloading games or add-on's when the console is in sleep mode. I’ve experienced issues with completing a purchase and the games remains in my library or remaining in pending downloading status or not showing up on the user interface. I found this very frustrating when trying to access video games with limited time. As a friendly reminder this app is only a tool for hardcore gamer's allowing you to further enhance your experience in the realm of gaming.  

PlayStation advertisement of App: https://youtu.be/R7xFZUC-QuI 

Programming Languages

Programming Languages

Honestly, when playing the Scratch tutorial it reminded me of an old computer game that I played as a child. As an upcoming gamer growing up I would review tech and I often found myself drawn to horror or complex video games that come with unique challenges and trophies to complete. Some of these challenges were in a way that left me knowledgeable of how to play complicated video games. I would even discover cheat codes or glitches that would give me the upper hand. Reviewing tech or playing complicated and extremely difficult games such as Elden Ring or Baldur’s Gate enhanced my interpersonal skills that I find very valuable when it comes to a basic understanding of different tech.

The learning curve wasn’t as steep as I thought, which I found Scratch easy to use practicing and choosing different codes. The initial 5 minutes can be daunting while placing the codes in certain orders giving your costume the ability to animate. The codes are what instructs my costume or image giving it commands to move or make special sounds. The instructions were a little complicated at first but my daughter and I enjoyed creating animations. Users can experience frustration due to the lack of patience wanting to begin right away. Again using Scratch was enjoyable and it’s a valuable insight into programming or playing video games. Yes, Scratch offered numerous benefits for students both in personal growth and creativity. It definitely made me critically think about breaking down codes into manageable parts to fit the animation structure. I just wish Scratch was more simple to the average user. Again if the user doesn’t have the patience to complete the tutorial they’ll simply give up.

My strategies for overcoming these difficulties take time which can be a barrier to those that are parents or those that have a busy schedule. Persistence and patience is key to mastering Scratch and accepting that and not creating a quality product is part of the learning curve. If you find yourself getting frustrated, take a break. Also, Scratch provides instant feedback, allowing the user to see their results in real time so focus on being familiar with coding versus creating a masterpiece. 

When discussing what's the most popular programming language used, JavaScript and Python would be number one with Python being the higher rated programming language today. They're both easy to use and learn, free, and always available. Their versatility and extensive libraries makes these programming languages the favorite today. Also, There are three types of programming languages that are different in various ways. Starting with machine language and assembly language, which is used for the device to complete coding and they’re both hardware specific. High level languages would be considered Java and Python which is seen more in educational settings and is considered a much more useful programming language for professionals and beginners. 

Again using Scratch was enjoyable and it’s a valuable insight into programming or playing video games. Yes, Scratch offered numerous benefits for students both in personal growth and creativity. It definitely made me critically think about breaking down codes into manageable parts to fit the animation structure. I just wish Scratch was more simple to the average user. Again if the user doesn’t have the patience to complete the tutorial they’ll simply give up.  Again using Scratch was enjoyable and it’s a valuable insight into programming or playing video games. Yes, Scratch offered numerous benefits for students both in personal growth and creativity. It definitely made me critically think about breaking down codes into manageable parts to fit the animation structure. I just wish Scratch was more simple to the average user. Again if the user doesn’t have the patience to complete the tutorial they’ll simply give up.

Reference:
Tharkur, S. (2024). Top Differences Between Machine Language And Assembly Language. Retrieved from. https://unstop.com/blog/difference-between-machine-language-and-assembly-language
Scratch URL: https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/1050114011/editor