Introduction of ICT

1. Introduction to ICT — Components
of ICT
• Basics of Hardware, Software, ICT Platforms,
Networks, Local & Cloud Data Storage
• Prepared by Fahma Nisar
• BSCS – 1st Semester

2. What is ICT?
• ICT stands for Information and
Communication Technology.
• It combines computing, telecommunications,
and information processing.
• ICT enables the creation, storage, exchange,
and use of information through technology.
• Examples: Internet, mobile phones, computer
networks, cloud systems.

3. Importance of ICT
• Enhances communication and information
sharing.
• Improves business efficiency and productivity.
• Enables e-learning and digital education.
• Supports decision-making through data
management systems.

4. Evolution of ICT
• 1940s–1950s: First computers for data
processing.
• 1970s: Personal computers and
microprocessors.
• 1990s: Internet revolution.
• 2000s–Present: Mobile computing and cloud
technologies.

5. Major Components of ICT
• Hardware
• Software
• ICT Platforms
• Networks
• Data Storage (Local & Cloud)

6. Hardware — Definition
• Hardware refers to the physical components
of ICT systems.
• It executes software instructions and
processes data.
• Without hardware, software cannot function.

7. Types of Hardware
• 1. Input Devices – Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner
• 2. Output Devices – Monitor, Printer, Speaker
• 3. Storage Devices – Hard drives, USB, SSDs
• 4. Processing Unit – CPU, GPU, Motherboard

8. Software — Definition
• Software is a set of instructions that tells
hardware what to do.
• It controls the operation of the computer
system.
• Divided into System Software and Application
Software.

9. System Software
• Manages hardware and basic system
operations.
• Examples: Operating Systems (Windows,
macOS, Linux), Utilities, Drivers.
• Acts as a bridge between hardware and user
applications.

10. Application Software
• Designed for specific user tasks.
• Examples:
• - MS Word → Document processing
• - Chrome → Web browsing
• - Photoshop → Graphic editing
• User-friendly and goal-oriented.

11. ICT Platforms — Definition
• ICT platform = Environment where software
and hardware work together.
• Supports application deployment and data
exchange.
• Examples: Operating systems, mobile
platforms, cloud environments.

12. Types of ICT Platforms
• 1. Operating System Platforms – Windows,
macOS, Linux
• 2. Mobile Platforms – Android, iOS
• 3. Web Platforms – Websites, portals, e-
commerce
• 4. Cloud Platforms – AWS, Microsoft Azure,
Google Cloud

13. Role of ICT Platforms
• Integrates various components for smooth
operation.
• Enables software to run across devices.
• Provides user interface, security, and
connectivity.
• Supports innovation (apps, AI, data storage,
etc.)

14. Networks — Definition
• A network is a group of connected devices
that share data and resources.
• Enables communication between computers
and users.
• Essential for internet access and cloud
computing.

15. Types of Networks
• 1. LAN (Local Area Network): Covers a small
area like a lab or office.
• 2. WAN (Wide Area Network): Connects across
cities or countries.
• 3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network): City-
wide connectivity.
• 4. Internet: Global network linking millions of
devices.

16. Network Devices
• Router: Connects networks together.
• Switch: Links multiple computers in a LAN.
• Modem: Converts digital to analog signals for
internet access.
• Server: Provides shared resources like data or
apps.

17. Data Storage — Definition
• Refers to saving and managing data digitally.
• Two main categories: Local Storage and Cloud
Storage.
• Storage is vital for accessibility, backup, and
analysis.

18. Local Data Storage
• Stored directly on user’s device (PC, USB, SSD).
• Data is accessible without internet.
• Examples: Hard disk, Flash drive, External
HDD.
• Advantages: Fast access, full control.
• Limitations: Risk of loss, limited space.

19. Cloud Data Storage
• Data stored on internet-based servers.
• Examples: Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox,
iCloud.
• Advantages: Accessible anywhere, auto-
backup, scalable.
• Limitations: Requires internet, privacy
concerns.

20. Summary
• ICT integrates hardware, software, networks,
and platforms to process and share
information.
• Hardware performs tasks; Software gives
instructions.
• ICT Platforms provide operational
environments.
• Networks connect systems; Storage ensures
data availability.
• Together, they form the foundation of modern