The advancement of technology integration in our daily lives comes as no surprise. In fact, what we are experiencing now is a glimpse of what the future is going to be like. We covered a lot of topics on various types of technology. In this analysis, we will go a step further and specifically look at information technology and its types. Anything that includes the use of electronics for the collection and storage of information is included in information technology. This means it involves functions ranging from building communication to safeguarding information. Not only that, it is crucial in data management and decision-making.
Due to the immense benefits that IT has to offer, every sector is adopting it. That’s how you see IT in business, health care, retail, banking and finance, and many more sectors.
Information technology (IT) encompasses various types, including computer hardware and software, networks and databases, cybersecurity, and data analysis. It also extends to more specialized areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, cloud computing, virtual reality, and several others that work towards managing and exchanging information effectively.
You might have guessed by now that IT has a wide reach. Therefore, exploring each of its forms is next to impossible. However, here is our attempt at describing common types of information technology:
1. Computer security
We are moving toward a digital world, where we use the internet and computer systems to perform almost all tasks. In many ways, it is proving to be beneficial to us. But there are downsides to it that we cannot afford to ignore.
Our world is now well-connected. Thus, cybercriminals see this as an opportunity to carry out their malicious intentions. It can be anything from data theft to data breaches, incurring loss to the victim in the process. That’s when computer security comes into view. It works on the principles of Confidentiality, Integrity, and Availability, popularly known as CIA.
Several activities are involved in cybersecurity. It secures the computer networks, application software, and data assets. It includes encryption of data and network connections to protect the users from cyber threats.
Furthermore, cybersecurity encourages the use of strong passwords and backup of critical data. If the cyberattacker manages to launch their attack and access the victim’s system, cybersecurity measures deal with these vulnerabilities. To sum up, all these computer security activities aim at protecting users from cyberattacks.
2. Computer network
The information-sharing between computers was made possible with the help of network connections. Today, we have different types of networks, distinguished based on their purpose and application. The most widely used computer networks are Local Area Network (LAN), Personal Area Network (PAN), and Wide Area Network (WAN).
Businesses use LAN when they want to establish a connection within a limited area, and WAN when they want to cover a larger geographical area.
Computer networking has made information readily available, which has enhanced our communication. This is especially useful for large corporations. It enables file and resource sharing conveniently.
The direct benefit is that it saves a lot of time and effort. It provides higher flexibility as users are given access to the required resources. The best part about the computer network is that it is inexpensive. Therefore, you get all these benefits without burning a hole in your pocket.
3. Cloud computing
As technology is progressing, so is the growth of data. In other words, people are using more devices that generate data. Our local storage is not enough to make the most out of it. This is why we have cloud computing.
You can store data on remote servers and access it from any device using an internet connection. It consists of software, devices, central servers, and databases. Isn’t it a very convenient technology? At least you don’t have to worry about data loss when you lose or damage your device.
When we said making the most out of data, we meant organizing data to gain insights. This in turn helps in planning actions that can yield results. Furthermore, it encourages collaboration as anyone from any part of the world can work together. The best part about it is that you can pay only for the services you are using. This is unlike other plans, where you are forced to purchase the entire software or hardware suite.
4. Information security
Businesses use information security practices to safeguard their data. Like cybersecurity, it works on the principles of the CIA, but they are two distinct technologies. Information security covers a wide area including physical security, network security, and data encryption.
The data is at risk while stored and also when transmitted. Ergo, the policies of information security ensure that the data is protected from unauthorized access in both states.
Data generates profit and businesses know this. That’s why they invest a lot to secure it. But sometimes these extra costs are just expenses that don’t guarantee security. Instead, implementing information security gives the desired results. It reduces the cost spent on achieving security.
Additionally, it educates the employees on the types of cyberattacks and how to avoid falling prey to them. It encourages them to take security control measures for daily operations. Overall, it reduces the risk of data breaches and attacks in an organization.
5. Artificial intelligence
Artificial intelligence (AI) is about developing intelligent machines that can perform tasks like ours. We, humans, get tired, and hence need sleep and rest to recover. But there are no such requirements when it comes to machines. They are available round the clock, performing the assigned tasks. This also makes them suitable candidates for performing repetitive tasks.
Today, we have big data that trains these AI models to perform better. Plus, using AI we have been able to reduce human error significantly.
Now, let’s look at AI in our everyday lives. Google Assistant and Apple’s Siri are the most talked-about examples of AI. You can simply give voice commands to them, and they will perform the tasks for you. It can be anything from doing a quick search on the internet to making a call. This functionality is especially useful when you are engaged in a task and unable to do it yourself.
Take the example of driving. You cannot use your hands to send texts or find locations, but you can use AI to complete these tasks in your stead.