Second is the Best: Learning Module 2- Chapters 2 and 6

This unit was very broad and educational. I learned how to perform various tasks with my browser, such as turning the pop up blocker on and off and changing cookie settings. We also compared and learned about different browsers like Internet Explorer, Opera, Firefox, Safari, and Flock. We also covered different parts of a web adress and broke it down into sections. The most important thing I think we learned was, however, was how to protect your computer from various risks like hackers, viruses, and phishing scams. I am ashamed to admit I have fallen for phishing scams in the past, so this was particularly relevant to my life.

I believe I put in the necessary time and effort required to succeed in this module. However, I think I could have spent a little more time on the quizzes to ensure the best score possible. In the future, I will be in less of a hurry to finish and read each question more carefully. One question in particular I was hung up on referred to something as being expensive that I thought was inexpensive, so I got it wrong. This shows me that I need to do more outside research and understand what things are like in a practical setting before assuming I know everything I need to from the reading.

The following words I was happy to learn that I did not know prior to this module:
Node: Each computer or device connected to a LAN
Hub: A piece of hardware used to connect multiple nodes on the same network
Throughput: the amount of data that can be transferred from one node to another node in a certain amount of time (To help remeber this, I think of throughput as being analogous to frequency in terms of waves)
Star topology: connects each node to the next node using a single circle of cable
Token: small packet that moves in a clockwise circle from node to node
Twisted-pair cable: consists of inuslated copper wires twisted around each other in pairs, then enclosed in plastic coverign. (Interesting choice of matierals, definately something I am interested in researching more!)
Hop: (it is more than something cute bunnies do! who knew?) forwarding a packet to the next internet router

This link was extremely helpful in understanding what ports are and how firewall works:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_EVfWpL6L4&feature=related

Although the book adresses some of these points, this is a nice brief article that offers

 some useful suggestions on how to keep your computer safe: 

http://ezinearticles.com/?5-Tips-For-Keeping-Your-Computer-Safe-and-Secure&id=4823642 

This user friendly site was especially helpful for comparing web browsers:

http://internet-browser-review.toptenreviews.com/

The only "phish" I'll be having after this module (and this link) is salmon:

http://www.microsoft.com/security/online-privacy/phishing-symptoms.aspx