What Is IT? Networking
Since Information Technology (IT) is really
communication-of-information technology, IT is mostly computer
networking. (Cyber is a prefix meaning IT, so for example, IT
security is also known as cybersecurity.) "Computer" includes
supercomputers, servers, desktops, laptops, tablets, phones
(landlines and cells), TV, etc. There has been a
"convergence"
and all of these devices now communicate — their most
important function — over the same network, the
Internet; see figure. Thus, being an IT expert means being a
networking expert. (For more see
What
is IT and What Makes Me an Expert?)
Networking, at its first, lowest, physical layer (hardware;
e.g., cables, wireless), is mostly electrical engineering. At
its last, highest, application layer (software; e.g., web
programming), it is mostly computer science. However, at
either end, extensive knowledge of the other end is necessary.
Thus to be a networking expert, you need an education in both
electrical engineering and computer science from an excellent
university. See next entry,
Who
Am I To Talk About IT Incompetence? Duane Thresher,
Ph.D.
Next Entry →