Computer badge
https://scoutwiki.scouts.org.za/w/images/6/61/Computer_%28Scout_Interest_Badge%29_print.pdf
1. Present evidence of your involvement in using
computers over a period of at least three months and
explain what you learnt in that time.
I have got this game achievement about three months ago
In the past 3 months I have not learnt that much to do with computers as I have learnt
most about them a while ago. My friend and I have been messing around with different
types of operating systems, mainly involving Linux, because of that I have learnt a bit
more about operating systems.
2. General Knowledge of Computer Technology &
Definitions
Basic Components of a Computer System
1. Hardware – The physical parts of a computer you can see and touch (e.g.,
monitor, keyboard, hard drive, motherboard, cables).
2. Software – The programs and instructions that tell the hardware what to do (e.g.,
Microsoft Word, web browsers, games).
3. Operating System (OS) – The main software that manages hardware and
software resources, allowing other programs to run. Examples: Windows,
macOS, Linux.
4. Memory (RAM) – Short-term, fast storage used by the computer to store data it
is currently working with. It is cleared when the computer is turned off.
5. Processor (CPU) – The "brain" of the computer that carries out instructions and
performs calculations.
6. Storage Devices – Components that permanently store data, such as hard
drives, SSDs, and USB drives.
7. Modem/Router – A modem connects your network to the internet through your
service provider; a router distributes that connection to multiple devices, wired or
wireless.
8. Scanner – A device that captures images or documents and converts them into
a digital format.
9. Network – A group of connected computers and devices that can share data and
resources.
10. Internet – A global network of interconnected computers that communicate using
standard protocols.
11. Backups – Copies of important data stored separately so they can be restored if
the original is lost or damaged.
12. Copyrights – Legal rights that protect creators’ original work, ensuring others
cannot copy, share, or use it without permission.
3. Storage Devices & Security
Types of Storage Devices
● Hard Disk Drive (HDD) – Large-capacity, mechanical storage, good for long-
term data but slower than SSDs.
● Solid-State Drive (SSD) – Faster, no moving parts, ideal for operating systems
and frequently used files.
● USB Flash Drive – Portable, small storage for transferring data between
computers.
● Optical Discs (CD, DVD, Blu-ray) – Less common now; used for media and
software distribution.
● Cloud Storage – Online storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive)
that let you access files from anywhere with internet.
● External Hard Drives – Portable drives for backups or extra storage.
● Network Attached Storage (NAS) – A storage device connected to a network,
allowing multiple users/devices to access files.
Security Against External Threats
1. Use strong passwords (mix of letters, numbers, symbols, at least 12 characters).
2. Enable firewalls to block unauthorized access.
3. Keep software and OS updated to patch vulnerabilities.
4. Install and update antivirus software.
5. Be cautious with email attachments and links.
6. Use multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible.
7. Encrypt sensitive files.
8. Regular backups so you can recover after an attack.
4. Anti-Virus Software
Purpose
● Detects, blocks, and removes malicious software (viruses, worms, trojans,
spyware, ransomware).
● Prevents data theft and damage.
● Provides real-time scanning for suspicious activity.
Types & Examples
1. Free Antivirus – Basic protection: Avast Free, AVG Free, Microsoft Defender.
2. Paid Antivirus – More advanced features (firewalls, VPNs, ransomware
protection): Norton, McAfee, Bitdefender, Kaspersky.
3. Cloud-based Antivirus – Uses cloud servers for scanning, reducing the load on
your computer.
4. Endpoint Security Suites – Enterprise-level protection for businesses.
5. Do THREE of the following:
d) Use a computer to design and print a poster, e.g. an advertisement for a Scout
event, including a logo or illustration you designed on the computer.
Done and will be sent separately with this doc
e) Show that you know how to search for information on the internet and find out
what information is available about Scouting in South Africa and in other
countries.
Scouting South Africa link found:
https://www.scouts.org.za
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scouts_South_Africa
https://www.scouts.org.za/about-us/our-history
https://1stclaremont.org.za/our-history/fred-and-charles-stern-the-first-scouts-in-south-
africa
https://www.scout.org/Scouts-South-Africa-Safe-from-Harm-framework-advances-child-
protection
Scouting in other countries:
www.scout.org
https://www.scout.org/who-we-are/scout-movement/scoutings-history
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Scout_Association
www.scouts.org.uk/about-us/our-history/how-scouting-grew
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scouting_and_Guiding_in_the_United_Kingdom
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boy_Scouts_of_America
g) Use a programming language to write and demonstrate a computer programme
you have chosen, subject to your examiner’s approval.
Done and will be sent separately with this doc
