Got it!
Here's the content without any hashtags so you can paste it into your
notes smoothly:
Computer Science Notes
Computer Security
Definition:
Computer security refers to protecting systems from unauthorized access,
attacks, or damage. It ensures the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of
data.
Key Terms:
- Hacking – Illegally accessing or modifying computer files without permission.
- Malware – Malicious software designed to harm, exploit, or disrupt systems.
- Viruses – A type of malware that replicates and spreads without user consent.
- Unauthorized Access and Modification – When someone illegally accesses or
alters files.
- Firewall – A security system that monitors and controls incoming and
outgoing network traffic.
- Spyware – A type of malware that gathers information about a user without
consent.
- Adware – Software that displays unwanted advertisements.
Common Threats:
- Logic Bombs – Malicious code that activates when certain conditions are met.
- Ransomware – A type of malware that locks a user’s files and demands
payment to unlock them.
- Trojan Horse – A virus disguised as legitimate software.
- Phishing – Fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information via emails or
fake websites.
- Advanced Fee Fraud – A scam where a victim is promised a large sum of
money in exchange for a small payment.
Protecting Against Cyber Threats:
- Use strong, unique passwords and update them regularly.
- Keep software and browsers updated to patch security vulnerabilities.
- Install antivirus and anti-malware software.
- Avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments.
- Use firewalls to filter incoming and outgoing traffic.
Protecting Personal Data
Who Holds Your Data?
- Schools – Personal details, academic records.
- Doctors/NHS – Medical history, prescriptions.
- Google – Name, email, search history, contacts.
Data Protection Act & GDPR:
- Regulates how personal data is collected, stored, and used.
- Key principles:
- Data must be accurate and up-to-date.
- Individuals have the right to access their personal data.
- Data must be protected from unauthorized access.
Identity Theft:
- Occurs when criminals access personal data to impersonate someone.
- They may apply for bank loans, credit cards, or commit fraud in your name.
- Minimizing risk:
- Avoid sharing personal data online.
- Use privacy settings on social media.
- Be cautious of phishing emails.
Health and Safety in Computing
Common Health Issues from Computer Use:
- Eye Strain – Caused by staring at screens for long periods.
- Back Problems – Poor posture can lead to spinal issues.
- Repetitive Strain Injury (RSI) – Repeating the same movement (e.g., typing)
can cause pain.
Employer Responsibilities:
- Provide adjustable chairs and desks.
- Ensure proper lighting to reduce glare.
- Allow frequent breaks to prevent fatigue.
E-Waste:
- Old electronic devices contribute to hazardous waste.
- Recycling options:
- Return to Manufacturer – Some companies offer trade-in programs.
- Donate to charity – Old computers can be reused.
- Professional disposal services – Ensures safe and legal disposal.
Python Programming
IDLE (Integrated Development and Learning Environment):
- Interactive Mode – Runs Python commands one at a time.
- Script Mode – Allows users to write, save, and execute full programs.
Variables:
- Definition: A storage location in memory used to store data that can change.
- Rules for Naming Variables:
- Can contain letters, numbers, and underscores.
- Cannot start with a number.
- Cannot use reserved Python keywords (e.g., class, def).
Data Types:
- String (str) – Holds text ("Hello").
- Integer (int) – Holds whole numbers (5, 100).
- Float (float) – Holds decimal numbers (3.14).
- Boolean (bool) – Holds True or False.
Casting (Type Conversion):
- str() – Converts to a string.
- int() – Converts to an integer.
- float() – Converts to a float.
Arithmetic Operators
- Addition (+) – 2 + 3 = 5
- Subtraction (-) – 5 - 3 = 2
- Multiplication (*) – 4 * 2 = 8
- Division (/) – 10 / 2 = 5.0
- Floor Division (//) – 10 // 3 = 3
- Modulus (%) – 10 % 3 = 1
Order of Operations (BIDMAS):
1. Brackets
2. Indices (Exponents)
3. Division & Multiplication
4. Addition & Subtraction
Functions
- Definition: A block of reusable code that performs a task.
- Defined using def keyword.
Example:
```python
def greet(name):
print("Hello, " + name)
greet("Alice")
```
Pseudocode
Pseudo code is half English and half code
It wouldn’t run and is used to plan programs
Common Python Keywords in Pseudocode:
- PRINT – Displays output.
- INPUT – Accepts user input.
- IF, THEN, ELSE – Decision-making.
- WHILE – Loop while a condition is true.
- FOR – Loop a set number of times.
Selection (IF Statements)
- Used to make decisions based on conditions.
- Uses IF, ELIF, and ELSE.
Iteration (Loops)
- While Loop – Runs as long as a condition is true.
- For Loop – Runs a fixed number of times.
---
Flowcharts
Definition:
A flowchart is a graphical representation of an algorithm, using symbols and
arrows.
Flowchart Symbols:
- Oval → Start/End.
- Parallelogram → Input/Output.
- Rectangle → Process (calculation, assignment).
- Diamond → Decision (True/False conditions).
Search Algorithms
Linear Search:
- Checks each item one by one from start to end.
- Simple but inefficient for large datasets.
Random Search:
- Selects random items and checks if they match the target.
- Highly inefficient as it relies on luck.
Binary Search:
- Only works on sorted lists.
- Finds the midpoint and compares it to the target.
- Repeats in the lower or upper half until the item is found.
- More efficient than linear search.
Now it's fully clean for pasting into your notes! Let me know if you need any
final tweaks.
