1. Data Recovery
Data recovery is the process of retrieving information from media that cannot be accessed through normal means. This is usually the last line of defense.
The “Levels” of Recovery:
- Logical Recovery: The hardware is fine, but the data is gone due to accidental deletion, formatting, or file system corruption.
- Physical Recovery: The drive has mechanical or electrical failure (e.g., a “clicking” hard drive or a dead controller on an SSD). This often requires a “Clean Room” environment to take the drive apart.
The Golden Rule: The 3-2-1 Backup Strategy To avoid needing recovery, keep 3 copies of your data, on 2 different types of media, with 1 copy stored off-site.
2. Computer Servicing & Maintenance
This is the “preventative medicine” of the tech world. It focuses on hardware longevity and software stability.
- Hardware Maintenance: Cleaning dust from fans and heat sinks to prevent thermal throttling, replacing thermal paste, and checking for failing capacitors or swollen batteries.
- Software Optimization: Managing startup items, updating drivers, and patching operating systems to close security vulnerabilities.
- Diagnostics: Using POST (Power-On Self-Test) codes and software logs to identify failing components like RAM or SSDs before they crash.
3. Computer Networking & IT Infrastructure
Infrastructure is the skeleton and nervous system of an organization. It’s what allows devices to “talk” to each other and the internet.
- Physical Layer: Includes cabling (Cat6, Fiber optics), switches, and routers.
- Logical Layer: Managing IP addresses, DNS (the “phonebook” of the internet), and VLANs to segment traffic for security.
- Infrastructure Models:
- On-Premise: Servers and storage located physically in your building.
- Cloud/Hybrid: Utilizing services like AWS or Azure to host data and applications remotely.
