Computer Systems

QuantumTech Computing Services

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2024

TASK 1 …………………………………1
TASK 2……………………………………6
TASK 3…………………………………..10
TASK 4 ………………………………….14

Business Technology Report for

QuantumTech
Part A: Analysis of QuantumX and Expansion Avenues
1. QuantumX Architecture: Key Hardware Components

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

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The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is a key part QuantumX. It handles all
instructions from different programs and the operating system. The
QuantumX uses a multi-core type of computer processor that contains
multiple independent processing units, known as cores, on a single
integrated circuit (IC) chip. This means the CPU run and execute 2 or more
application at the same time .This is crucial for businesses that need to run
complex applications quickly.

Storage (Solid-State Drive, SSD)

The QuantumX uses a Solid-State Drive (SSD) for storage. Compare to hard drives, SSDs a
semiconductor-based storage device, which typically uses NAND flash memory to save
persistent data. This makes it more faster in terms of application loading and better system
responsiveness . Additionally, SSDs are more durable and reliable, reducing the risk of data loss
from physical damage. The enourmous speed SSD brings it an advantage especially with
processing and storing huge data.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM stands for random-access memory. Sometimes it's called PC memory or just memory. In
essence It's where the data is stored that your computer processor needs to run your applications
and open your files.. The QuantumX has a large amount of high-speed RAM, which allows it to
handle multiple applications simultaneously without slowing down. This is especially important
for businesses that use resource-intensive programs, as it ensures smooth and efficient operation.

2. Classes of Computers

Microcomputer (e.g., QuantumX)

Microcomputers, like the QuantumX, are designed for individual use. They are small, affordable,
and versatile, making them ideal for personal and small business use. However, one of it major
disadvantange is it have limited processing power and storage compared to larger systems.
Microcomputers are great for general tasks but might struggle with extremely demanding
applications.

Mainframe

Mainframes are large, powerful computers used by large organizations for critical applications,
bulk data processing, and large-scale transaction processing. They offer high reliability,
scalability, and the ability to support many users and applications simultaneously. However, it
major downside is mainframes are expensive and require specialized knowledge to operate. They
are suitable for large businesses with significant data processing needs.

3. Possible Areas of Expansion

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Mainframe Services

Expanding into mainframe services can be beneficial as businesses grow and their data
processing needs increase. Mainframes can handle large amounts of data and complex
transactions efficiently, making them ideal for big enterprises. Although the initial investment is
high, the profitability from servicing large companies can justify this expansion if quatumx can
anticipate income large data in the nearest future a mainframe services will be advicesable.

Networking Solutions

Networking is another viable area for expansion. Businesses need robust and secure networks to
operate efficiently. Offering networking solutions, including setup, maintenance, and security,
can meet this demand. Networking services can provide steady revenue through service contracts
and ongoing support. With the rise of digital business operations, this expansion aligns with
current market trends.

Part B: Operating System Functionalities and Hardware

Integration
1. Functionalities of a Modern Operating System

Device Management

An operating system is responsible for successfully establishing the connection between these
devices and the system. The operating system uses the concept of drivers to establish a
connection between these devices and the system. For instance, it makes sure printers, storage
drives, and other peripherals communicate effectively with the system. This is crucial for
business operations and majorly for quantumx, allowing easy integration of various devices.

User Interface (UI)

The OS provides a user-friendly interface for interacting with the computer. Modern operating
systems offer graphical user interfaces (GUIs) that are intuitive and easy to use, reducing the
learning curve for new users. This enhances productivity, especially in startups where users need
to be efficient from the start and user freindly.

Networking
The OS supports network connectivity and communication, enabling the computer to connect to
other computers and the internet. This functionality is essential for businesses to share resources,
collaborate, and communicate effectively. A robust networking capability ensures smooth and
secure business operations.

2. Integration of Operating
PageSystem
|4 and Hardware

Resource Allocation

The OS manages the computer's resources, such as CPU time and memory, allocating them to
various applications as needed. This ensures that all running programs get the necessary
resources to function correctly, maintaining system efficiency and preventing conflicts.

Error Handling

The OS detects and manages hardware and software errors, helping to maintain system stability
and reliability. Effective error handling minimizes downtime and ensures continuous operation,
which is critical for business productivity.

Input/Output (I/O) Devices

The OS manages communication between the computer and external devices, ensuring fast and
accurate data transfer. Proper I/O management enhances overall system performance by
facilitating smooth interactions with peripherals.

Device Drivers

The OS uses drivers to communicate with hardware components, ensuring compatibility and
functionality. Device drivers allow the OS to integrate and utilize new hardware efficiently,
maintaining the performance and versatility of the QuantumX.

Additional Discussion

Expanding into mainframe and networking solutions is technologically feasible for

QuantumTech, given their expertise in high-performance computing. These expansions can open
new revenue streams and attract a broader customer base, including larger enterprises. This
diversification enhances QuantumTech's market position and drives long-term profitability.

By addressing these areas, QuantumTech can broaden its service offerings, cater to evolving
business needs, and secure the financial backing required for expansion. The focus on high
performance and reliability will continue to set QuantumTech apart in the market.
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Task 2: Software Bundling for QuantumTech

Part A: Understanding Software Categories and Functionality

1. Categories of Software

Application Software

This is a type of computer program that performs a specific personal, educational, and business
function. Each application is designed to assist end-users in accomplishing a variety of task
which includes productivity tools, multimedia software, communication applications, and
entertainment software.

Types of Application Software:

i) Productivity Software: Productivity software simply means any application or

program that enables one to produce or create, among others, graphs, databases,
documents, presentations, audio or video clips, and worksheets.
Example: Microsoft Office Suite:
Functionality: Microsoft Office includes applications like Word (for document creation), Excel
(for spreadsheets), and PowerPoint (for presentations). These tools help users create, edit, and
manage documents efficiently.

ii) Multimedia Software: Multimedia software is defined as the combination of text,

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audio, images, animation,

 Functionality: These tools enable users to create professional-quality multimedia

content. Includes software for photo editing, video editing, and audio production.
Examples are Adobe Photoshop (photo editing) and Adobe Premiere Pro (video
editing),vlc movie player ,inkscape etc.

iii) Communication Software: Communication software forms a part of

communication systems with software components classified according to functions
within the Open Systems Interconnection Model (OSI Model). The best defined
examples of communication software are file transfer protocol (FTP), messaging
software and email.
Functionality: Includes email clients, instant messaging applications, and video
conferencing tools. Examples are Microsoft Outlook (email), Slack (instant messaging), and
Zoom (video conferencing). These tools support communication and collaboration.

iv) Entertainment Software: Entertainment software provides leisure and enjoyment to

users. It includes video games, media players, and virtual reality experiences.
Functionality: Includes video games, media players, and other recreational
applications. Examples are Spotify (music streaming) and Steam (gaming platform).
These tools provide users with various forms of entertainment.

System Software
System software is a program designed to run a computer's hardware and applications and
manage its resources, such as its memory, processors, and devices. It includes operating systems,
device drivers, and utility programs.

 Example: LINUX
o Functionality: Linux is a Unix-like, open source and community-developed
operating system (OS) for computers, servers, mainframes, mobile devices and
embedded devices. It is supported on almost every major computer platform,
including x86, ARM and SPARC, making it one of the most widely supported
operating systems.

Development Software
 This include the process of defining, designing, testing, and implementing a new software application or
program. It could include the internal development of customized systems, the creation of database
systems, or the acquisition of third party developed software.

 Example: Microsoft Visual Studio, Sublime text.

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o Functionality: | 7 Studio is an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that
Visual
provides a comprehensive suite of tools for coding, debugging, and testing applications.
It supports multiple programming languages and includes features like code completion,
version control integration, and a debugger.

3. How Software Works with Computer Systems:

The CPU executes a software program that is stored as a sequence of machine language instructions in
main memory. It does this by repeatedly reading, or fetching, an instruction from memory and then
carrying out, or executing, that instruction. There are various steps which include

1) Fetching:The CPU retrieves an instruction from memory.

2) Decoding: The CPU decodes the instruction to understand what action is required.
3) Executing: The CPU performs the action, which may involve arithmetic operations,
data movement, or interacting with hardware.
4) Storing: The result of the instruction is stored back in memory if needed.

This cycle repeats millions of times per second, allowing the computer to perform complex tasks quickly.

Software interfaces with various system components to perform its functions:

 Operating System (OS): Acts as a mediator between software and hardware. It allocates
resources, manages files, and handles input/output operations.
 Memory: Software uses RAM (Random Access Memory) to store data temporarily while
executing. This allows for quick access and manipulation of data.
 Storage: Software reads from and writes data to storage devices (e.g., SSDs, HDDs) to
save information permanently.
 Input/Output Devices: Software interacts with devices like keyboards, mice, and printers
through device drivers, which translate software instructions into hardware actions.

Part B: TOOLS NEEDED FOR CREATING SOFTWARES.

There are different tools use for creating software .Below are some

COMPILER:

Compiler are computer software that translates (compiles) source code written in a high-level
language (e.g., C++) into a set of machine-language instructions that can be understood by a
digital computer's CPU. Compilers are very large programs, with error-checking and other
abilities.
FUNTIONS: we can say that it converts the high-level language to machine/binary language.
Moreover, it is necessary to perform this step to make the program executable. This is because
the computer understands only binary language. It also check the code for syntax error and
optimize it.

Importance: Compilers are essential

Page | 8 for creating efficient, executable programs. They help
programmers by identifying errors in the code before execution.

INTERPRETER

An interpreter translates and executes code line by line, rather than creating an executable file.

Functionality: Processes the code at runtime, executing each line as it is translated. This allows
for immediate feedback, which is useful for debugging and development.

Importance: Interpreters are valuable for development environments where rapid testing and
iteration are needed. They enable programmers to test code snippets quickly without
recompiling.

Integrated Development Environment (IDE)

An integrated development environment (IDE) is a software application that provides

comprehensive facilities for software development. An IDE normally consists of at least a
source-code editor, build automation tools, and a debugger.

 Functionality: Combines a code editor, compiler, debugger, and other development

tools. It offers features like syntax highlighting, code completion, and version control
integration.
 Importance: IDEs streamline the development process by providing all necessary tools
in one place. This increases productivity and helps programmers manage complex
projects more efficiently.

Version Control System (VCS)

Version control, also known as source control, is the practice of tracking and managing changes
to software code. Version control systems are software tools that help software teams manage
changes to source code over time.

Functionality: Allows multiple developers to work on a project simultaneously, tracks changes,

and maintains a history of code versions. Examples include Git and Subversion.
Importance: VCSs are crucial for collaboration and maintaining code integrity. They help
programmers revert to previous versions, merge changes from different developers, and resolve
conflicts.

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Summary

To enhance its desktop offerings, QuantumTech can explore including more software categories
such as application software (e.g., Microsoft Office), system software (e.g., Windows), and
development software (e.g., Visual Studio). These categories provide various functionalities,
from productivity and multimedia to system management and software development.

For creating custom application software, QuantumTech would need to hire professional
programmers who use development tools like compilers, interpreters, IDEs, and version control
systems. These tools facilitate efficient coding, debugging, testing, and collaboration, essential
for developing high-quality software.

By expanding its software offerings and leveraging advanced development tools, QuantumTech
can deliver a more comprehensive and competitive product to its customers .

Task 3: Networking Services for QuantumTech.

Part A: Comparison of Network Configurations:
1. Local Area Network (LAN)

Purpose: A local area network (LAN) is a collection of devices connected together in one
physical location, such as a building, office, or home. A LAN can be small or large, ranging from
a home network with one user to an enterprise network with thousands of users and devices in an
office or school. How It Works: LANs use high-speed connections to link computers, printers,
and other devices, facilitating resource sharing and communication. Differences: LANs are
confined to a small area, offering high data transfer speeds and low latency. They are relatively
inexpensive and easy to set up and maintain.

2. Wide Area Network (WAN)

In its simplest form, a wide-area network (WAN) is a collection of local-area networks (LANs)
or other networks that communicate with one another. A WAN is essentially a network of
networks, with the Internet the world's largest WAN.

Wide-area networks (WANs) are the backbone of enterprise today. With the digitization of resources,
companies use WANs to do the following:
 Communicate using voice and video.
 Share resources between employees and customers.
 Access data storage and remotely back up data.
 Connect to applications running in the cloud.
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 Run and host internal applications.

WAN technology innovations help organizations access information in a secure, fast, and reliable
way. WANs are important for business productivity and continuity.

3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)

Purpose: MANs connect multiple LANs within a metropolitan area, such as a city or a large
campus. How It Works: MANs use high-speed connections, such as fiber optics, to link LANs
within a city. They often rely on network infrastructure provided by telecommunications
companies. Differences: MANs cover a larger area than LANs but a smaller area than WANs.
They offer moderate data transfer speeds and latency, with costs and complexity falling between
LANs and WANs.

Recommendation: LAN for Start-Up Businesses in Techville

Rationale: For start-ups in Techville, LAN configuration is the most ideal because of its ability to transfer
data at very high speeds, low latency, cost effectiveness and the fact that it is easy to establish and
maintain. Due to their confined space operations that characterize start-up businesses, LAN becomes a
perfect fit for networking requirements.

Part B: Network Topologies for LAN Configuration

1. Star Topology
Description: All devices are connected to a central hub or switch. Reliability: High as one device’s failure
does not affect others while if the central hub fails all network fails. Scalability: Moderate since adding
new devices presupposes connecting them to the central hub. Ease of Maintenance: High owing to
individual devices or central hub isolation of problems. Equipment Required: Hub or switch, network
cables.

2. Tree Topology

Description: Hierarchical structure of star networks interconnected with central hubs.

Reliability: High since each star network works independently and failure in one segment does
not disrupt entire network. Scalability: High because addition of new star networks can easily
be done on top of existing hierarchy. Ease of Maintenance: Moderate because issues may be
isolated to individual segments but resolution may be complicated due to hierarchical structure
Equipment Required: Multiple hubs or switches, network cables

3.Mesh Topology
 Description: Every device is connected to each other devices in the network. Reliability:
Extremely high because there are various ways for data transmission. Even if some connections
break, the network will still operate. Scalability: Poor since new devices addition necessitates
establishing connection with all existing nodes which make it complicated. Ease of
Maintenance: Difficult due to many links and places where breakdowns could occur. Equipment
Required: Network interfaces Page
for| each
11 device, large number of network cables.

4. Hybrid Topology
Description: Combination of two or more topologies such as star and mesh topology. Reliability:
It is good since it able to combine strengths from both combined topologies. Scalability: It is
large hence can be designed to enable addition of new devices and segments’ support. Ease of
Maintenance: Depending on how complex hybrid structure is then it can be
moderate.Equipment Required:Hubs, switches, network cables and other types of devices,
depending on the combined topologies.

Recommendation: Star Topology for LAN

Rationale: For start-ups a star topology strikes a balance between reliability, scalability and ease
of maintenance.The main hub/switch simplifies network management while this topology
supports easy expansion and troubleshooting process .

Part C: The OSI Model as a Global Standard of Communication

The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model is a conceptual framework that divides network
communications functions into seven layers. Sending data over a network is complex because
various hardware and software technologies must work cohesively across geographical and
political boundaries.

The OSI Model has several layers.

Physical Layer

Function: This is responsible for handling the physical connections between devices and
peripherals including cables, switches and other forms of hardware that link them together.

Components: Ethernet cables, network interface cards (NICs), hubs, switches.

Data Link Layer

Function: It provides error detection and correction, as well as creating frames out of data for
transmission purposes.

Components: MAC (Media Access Control) addresses, Ethernet protocol.

Network Layer
Function: The layer handles all data routing, forwarding and addressing tasks required in the
network.

Components: IP addresses, routers, routing protocols (e.g., OSPF, BGP).

Transport Layer Page | 12

Function: Ensuring a reliable flow of data through flow control mechanisms in error detection
and correction is one of its objectives.

Components: TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), UDP (User Datagram Protocol).

Session Layer

Function: These manage sessions and control dialogues between two devices on the network.

Components: Session management protocols, APIs (Application Programming Interfaces).

Presentation Layer

Function: Translating data formats into their appropriate representations;

encryption/decryption; compression/decompression as a result of huge volumes of data
needing to be moved with little delays or congestion on the networks they travel across during
transit over long distances is not an easy task at all times given how much information can pass
through them within seconds at high speeds which become unmanageable due processing
times so often it becomes relevant even when such information would take more time than
usual.

Components: Data translation protocols, encryption algorithms (e.g., SSL/TLS).

Application Layer

Function: It is the one that directly offers network services to users and applications on a
network.

Components: HTTP, FTP, SMTP, DNS.

Conclusion

The implementation of the OSI model by QuantumTech ensures that networking services offered are
consistent in their communication over different devices and across networks. With this background
knowledge, QuantumTech can be able to establish and maintain strong network installations for its
customers.

In the perspective of technology clients’ businesses commencing in Techville, QuantumTech has a

possibility to look beyond LAN design and topology as well as mastering the OSI model which is very
essential.
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Task 4: Future Computing Services for QuantumTech

Part A: Distributed Computing Services

1. Definition of Distributed Computing

Distributed Computing refers to a model in which computing tasks are spread across multiple
interconnected computers, known as nodes, working together to achieve a common goal. Each node
operates independently but communicates with others to complete tasks. This model enhances
computational power and resource availability beyond the capabilities of a single machine.

2. Client-Server Model vs. Peer-to-Peer Model

Client-Server Model: In this model, client devices request services and resources from a central
server. The server manages data and applications, processing requests and sending responses
back to clients. This model is structured and centralized, making it easier to manage and secure.

Peer-to-Peer (P2P) Model: In this model, all nodes (peers) are equal and can act as both clients
and servers. Each node can request and provide resources and services. P2P is decentralized,
offering robustness and redundancy, but can be harder to manage and secure.

3. Benefits of Distributed Computing for QuantumTech

Rationale: Moving towards distributed computing would allow QuantumTech to provide high-
performance computing (HPC) services essential for startups working with machine learning, big
data, cryptography, and artificial intelligence. This would involve setting up a network of
powerful servers to handle intensive computational tasks, leveraging the client-server model to
ensure reliability and manageability.

4. Core Characteristics of Distributed Computing

Concurrency Page | 14

Definition: Concurrency allows multiple processes to be executed simultaneously across

different nodes in a distributed system. Benefit: Startups can run complex algorithms and
simulations in parallel, significantly speeding up computation times and improving productivity.

Scalability

Definition: Scalability means that additional nodes or resources can be added to the system to
cater for high load. Benefit: When start-ups grow and require more computational capabilities,
QuantumTech distributed systems will allow them to expand thus increasing processing power
and storage without any interruptions of existing services.

Fault Tolerance

Definition: Fault tolerance refers to the ability of a system to work normally even if some of its
components are not working. Benefit: In case a node fails in distributed systems, all tasks can be
rerouted to live ones so as to maintain service level and quality which is important for businesses
with high uptime needs.

Transparency

Definition: Transparency is where the intricacy of a system is hidden from users in distributed
computing so that it can appear like one single unit. Benefit: Startups do not need any
understanding about the intricacies behind using distributed computing resources but instead
focusing on their main business activities.

Summary

QuantumTech has an opportunity through distributed computing to boost its service offerings by
meeting the demands of high-performance computing for small-scale local start-ups. The
customer-server model enables QuantumTech to come up with dependable, adaptable, fault-
tolerant and user-friendly computing solutions.
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Part B: Quantum Computing

What is Quantum Computing?

Quantum Computing is a kind of computer processing that applies quantum mechanical

principles in the information processing. Traditional computers use bits, which are the smallest
form of data (0s and 1s). Instead, quantum computers use qubits which can represent both 0’s
and 1’s or any value from a classical bit at the same time because if superposition occurs on
these qubits. There is also another property called entanglement where qubits become interlinked
such that state of one qubit may depend on another irrespective of their separation.

Advantages of Quantum Computing

Speed: When compared to classical computers, quantum computers have better performance
especially when it comes to carrying out complex computations. Benefit: For startups in
Techville working on machine learning and big data, quantum computers can reduce
significantly the duration required for data processing, model training, and simulations.

Parallel Computing

Definition: As a result of superposition, quantum computes have the capability of handling

several inputs simultaneously. Benefit: This parallelism makes it possible to handle huge datasets
more efficiently as well as complex algorithms hence improving performance for applications
like artificial intelligence and encryption.
 Optimization

Definition: Quantum computers – being good at solving optimization problems – are capable of
finding best solutions amongst large numbersof possibilities. Benefit: This ability can be
harnessed by startups to accomplish tasks.
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3. Quantum Computing and Cryptography
Suitability for Cryptography:

• Extra safety: Quantum computers create encryption methods that are more secure than classical
computing would allow.

• Classical Encryption Decryption: Factoring large prime numbers is a problem that quantum computers
solve in an efficient manner as well as the bedrock of present-day cryptographic systems, which could
mean the end of existing encryption techniques.

• Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): QKD employs quantum mechanical principles to provide secure
channels for communication, ensuring data integrity and privacy.

Summary

It is a significant improvement over classical computing by offering unmatchable speed, parallelism and
optimization capabilities when it comes to quantum computing. In respect to startups in Techville who
mostly rely on technology, this applies well to cryptography for safe encryption procedures creation
such as quantum key distributions. By exploring the potentialities of quantum computing, QuantumTech
will be at the cutting edge of technological trend in order to offer its clients with front line services.
 Page | 17

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