Question

(a) What is a CPU? (b) Explain what is meant by Debugging and how it is performed in the context of software application development with an example. (c) For each of these, explain what the abbreviation stands for, what it means and give an example. i. TCP ii. NoSQL iii. API (d) Describe the difference between Network Security and Software Security with an example of one defence strategy each. (e) Consider teleconferencing using Voice over IP (or Video chat) apps to talk to friends relatives, and colleagues in different countries. Describe how a video chat app works in terms of the concepts you have learned in this course.

Answer 1

The CPU is the primary component that processes instructions in a computer, while debugging is the process of identifying and solving issues in a software program. TCP is a core network communication protocol, NoSQL is a non-relational database design, and API stands for Application Programming Interface. Network security protects network integrity using tools like firewalls, and software security, for example, involves using code encryption to protect applications.

Step-by-step explanation:

Understanding the CPU and Debugging in Software Development

The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside a computer. It executes the instructions of a computer program by performing basic arithmetic, logical, control, and input/output (I/O) operations specified by the instructions.

Debugging is the process of finding and resolving defects or problems within a software program that prevent correct operation. Debugging is a methodical process of finding and reducing the number of bugs, or defects, in a computer program, making it behave as expected. For example, if an application crashes when users try to save their work, a software developer might use a debugging tool to step through the code, examining variables and program execution to locate and fix the issue.

Understanding TCP, NoSQL, and API

Network Security vs. Software Security

Network Security involves protective measures to safeguard the integrity, confidentiality, and accessibility of computer networks and data using both hardware and software technologies. An example of a defense strategy is a firewall.

Software Security ensures that software is protected from threats that can damage the integrity or disrupt the functioning of the software. An example of a defense strategy is code encryption.

How Video Chat Apps Work

Video chat apps like Voice over IP (VoIP) applications allow users to conduct teleconferences with friends, relatives, and colleagues in different countries. These apps work by converting voice and video signals into digital packets, transmitting them over the internet, and then converting them back into audio and video for the receiving party. They use a combination of codecs to compress the data, protocols such as TCP or UDP for transmission, and require a stable internet connection for real-time communication.