What are the different parts of a URL? Why is it important to understand the different parts?What is malware? What are some signs that malware may be impacting the performance of your computer? How can you avoid malware?How could a Boolean search help with researching a term paper? What is the primary advantage of using a Boolean search? Within your description, provide a specific example of a Boolean search.Nadia has found some interesting information on the internet that supports the main idea of a paper that she is writing. She wants to make sure the information she has found is valid and comes from a credible source. What steps can Nadia take to effectively determine if the information she has found online is accurate and valid?What is encryption? What are three examples of information that should be encrypted before it is transmitted?

Answer 1

Parts of a URL

A URL (Uniform Resource Locator) consists of several key components:

1. Scheme (Protocol): Indicates the protocol used to access the resource (e.g., http, https, ftp).
2. Host (Domain): The domain name that specifies the website (e.g., www.example.com).
3. Port (optional): Specifies the port number used (e.g., :80 for HTTP or :443 for HTTPS).
4. Path: Directs to a specific resource within the domain (e.g., /folder/page.html).
5. Query (optional): Contains data to be sent to the server (e.g., ?id=123&sort=asc).
6. Fragment (optional): A pointer to a specific part of the resource (e.g., #section1).

Importance: Understanding the different parts of a URL helps for navigation, preventing phishing, understanding web structure, and optimizing web development.

What is Malware?

Malware (malicious software) refers to any software designed to harm, exploit, or otherwise compromise a computer system, network, or personal device. Common types include viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware.

Signs of Malware Impact:

• Slow performance of the computer
• Frequent crashes or freezes
• Unusual system behavior (e.g., applications opening on their own)
• Excessive pop-up ads
• Unexplained data usage or new, unrecognized programs installed
• Browser redirects or home page changes

How to Avoid Malware

1. Use Antivirus Software: Regularly update and run antivirus programs.
2. Keep Software Updated: Ensure operating systems and applications are current.
3. Be Cautious with Downloads: Avoid downloading attachments or clicking links from unknown or suspicious sources.
4. Use Firewalls: Enable software firewalls and use hardware firewalls where possible.
5. Backup Data: Regularly backup important files to protect against data loss from malware attacks.

Boolean Search for Researching Term Papers

A Boolean search involves using operators (AND, OR, NOT) to refine and limit search results in databases or search engines.

Primary Advantage: It allows for more precise search results, filtering out irrelevant information, which saves time and increases the likelihood of finding high-quality sources.

Example: If Nadia is researching "climate change," she could use:

• climate change AND renewable energy to find sources that discuss both topics.
• climate change OR global warming to include materials that might discuss either term.
• climate change NOT politics to exclude articles that focus on the political aspects.

Verifying Information Validity

Nadia can take the following steps to confirm the validity of her online information:

1. Check the Source: Verify the credibility of the website (e.g., avoid Wikipedia for citation but use reputable sites like educational institutions, government sites, or recognized organizations).
2. Investigate the Author: Research the author's credentials and expertise in the field.
3. Look for Citations: Reliable articles will often reference studies, statistics, or other credible sources.
4. Cross-Reference Information: Confirm the facts by looking for them in multiple, reputable sources.
5. Examine the Date: Ensure the information is current and relevant to her topic.

What is Encryption?

Encryption is the process of converting data into a coded format that can only be read by authorized parties. It ensures the confidentiality and integrity of the data in transit or at rest.

Examples of Information to Encrypt:

1. Personal Identifiable Information (PII): Social Security numbers, addresses, and phone numbers.
2. Financial Information: Credit card numbers, bank account details, and transaction data.
3. Sensitive Communication: Emails or messages that contain confidential business information or personal discussions.

Understanding these concepts is essential to navigate and protect oneself in the digital landscape effectively.