Tech Topic Connection

 

For my blog project, I chose to explore two tech topics: hardware components of computer systems and IT careers. I picked these topics because I work in the IT field and want to better understand the tools I use every day and the career paths I can grow into. These topics strongly connect to the fundamentals of information technology that we studied in this course. IT is all about using computer systems to store, process, and share information—and that process can’t happen without the right hardware or the professionals who maintain and manage it.

Learning about hardware connects directly to how computers operate and how they have evolved over time. In the early days, computers were large, slow, and limited in function. Today, computers are much smaller, faster, and more powerful, thanks to advanced hardware like processors, RAM, storage drives, motherboards, and graphics cards. These components allow computers to perform complex tasks quickly and efficiently. Understanding how they work together helps me troubleshoot systems better at my job and deepens my knowledge as a technician (TestOut Corp., 2024). IT careers also tie into the field of computer science, where both areas focus on solving problems using technology. From network engineers to security analysts, these roles are built on the same basic principles—processing information and using tech tools to help others. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023), the demand for IT jobs is growing much faster than average, showing how vital this field is becoming.

Hardware is the physical part of any computer system. This includes the CPU, which acts like the brain of the computer, as well as memory (RAM), storage drives, input/output devices, and network cards. Each part plays a role in helping a computer run smoothly. Without them, no programs or systems could function. In my data center work, I often install or replace these parts to keep servers running efficiently. I’ve also learned how the speed of RAM or switching to solid-state drives (SSDs) can boost performance, which helps make better purchasing or upgrade decisions (Rouse, 2023). Graphics cards are also important when working with visual data or running systems that require high processing power. Hardware issues can cause major disruptions, so knowing how to maintain and fix these components is key in my day-to-day role. I’ve seen firsthand how small issues like loose cables or failing fans can lead to downtime, so I now check even the little things closely.

Even though I don’t code much in my current job, I’ve come to understand how important programming is to IT careers. Programmers use languages like Python, Java, or C++ to create apps, websites, and systems that other IT professionals rely on. Some IT techs even use scripting languages to automate tasks, such as restarting servers or checking performance logs. These programs run through methods like compilers and interpreters, depending on the language. Understanding this helps me work better with developers and support software issues. Application software is also a key part of IT work. We use software tools like Microsoft Excel to manage inventory, ServiceNow to track tickets, and monitoring tools to keep an eye on system health. These programs are essential for staying organized and productive (TestOut Corp., 2024). Software has helped reduce the time it takes to complete many tasks, like logging repairs or checking asset history. If you know how to use the right tools, you can do your work faster and with fewer mistakes.

Databases are just as important in both IT careers and hardware management. For example, I often work with asset databases that store records of equipment, service history, and performance data. Knowing how databases work—like how to search, sort, and update information—makes the job easier. Cloud platforms such as Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft Azure also provide advanced database tools that IT professionals use to manage large amounts of data. These systems allow businesses to store and retrieve data quickly and securely. If used properly, databases can reduce errors, improve reporting, and help track trends over time. Networking is another core concept that links back to both of my blog topics. Data centers run on networks filled with routers, switches, and firewalls. These systems make sure data moves smoothly between devices and stays secure. Poor network design or weak security can lead to system failures or hacks. That’s why network architecture, firewalls, and encryption are so important in today’s IT environment (Marinos & Briscoe, 2009). In my work, I’ve helped troubleshoot IP conflicts, configure switches, and even help new technicians understand basic network setups.

Creating this blog has been a fun and educational experience. I followed best practices by keeping my writing clear, using short paragraphs, and organizing my posts with headers and images to make them easy to read. I made sure to explain tech topics in simple terms so that anyone—even someone without an IT background—could understand them. One problem I ran into was making the blog look neat without being too fancy. I fixed this by choosing a clean template and only adding tools I needed. Another challenge was making the posts more relatable, so I used real-life examples from my job to help readers connect with the content. I also spent time revising each post to make sure they were clear and helpful. Using feedback from my instructor helped me clean up parts that were too technical.

Overall, I believe this blog has the potential to be a useful learning tool for others in IT courses or anyone interested in technology. I plan to keep posting new tips, updates, and walkthroughs as I continue learning in school and at work. In the future, I’d like to add video tutorials and even short lessons to make the blog more interactive. This blog is just the beginning of how I hope to share knowledge and grow my IT career. Over time, I hope it becomes a place where other tech learners can find support, ask questions, and feel confident exploring IT on their own.

References

Marinos, A., & Briscoe, G. (2009). Community cloud computing. Proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Cloud Computing. https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.0910.3249

Rouse, M. (2023). Computer hardware. TechTarget. https://www.techtarget.com/whatis/definition/hardware

TestOut Corp. (2024). CertMaster Learn Tech+. http://www.testout.com

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023). Computer and information technology occupations. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm