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AP Computer Science Principles (CSP) Study Guide - Unit 4

BIG IDEA 4: COMPUTER SYSTEMS AND NETWORKS

4.1 The Internet

  • Internet Architecture: Routers, switches, servers
  • Protocols: HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP
  • IP Addressing: IPv4, IPv6, DHCP
  • Domain Name System (DNS): Name resolution
  • Internet Service Providers (ISPs): Network access

4.2 Fault Tolerance

  • Redundancy: Backup systems and components
  • Error Detection: Checksums and error codes
  • Error Correction: Techniques for fixing errors
  • Failover Systems: Automatic backup switching
  • Distributed Systems: Spreading risk across multiple systems

4.3 Parallel and Distributed Computing

  • Parallel Processing: Using multiple cores/processors
  • Distributed Computing: Spreading work across networks
  • Load Balancing: Distributing workload efficiently
  • MapReduce: Parallel data processing framework
  • Cloud Computing: Leveraging distributed resources

4.4 Computer Components

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU): Processing instructions
  • Memory (RAM): Temporary storage
  • Storage: Permanent data retention
  • Input/Output Devices: User interaction
  • Motherboard: Connecting components

4.5 Operating Systems

  • OS Functions: Resource management, user interface
  • Process Management: Running multiple programs
  • Memory Management: Allocating and protecting memory
  • File Systems: Organizing and accessing data
  • User Interfaces: Command line vs. graphical

4.6 Networks

  • Network Types: LAN, WAN, PAN, MAN
  • Network Topologies: Star, bus, mesh, ring
  • Network Devices: Routers, switches, access points
  • Bandwidth and Latency: Network performance metrics
  • Wireless vs. Wired: Connection types and trade-offs

4.7 Network Security

  • Threats: Malware, phishing, DDoS attacks
  • Encryption: Secure data transmission
  • Authentication: Verifying identity
  • Authorization: Permission management
  • Firewalls and Security Software: Protection mechanisms