Section A: Cloud Computing and Online Systems (20 marks)

Which of the following best explains the differences between Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)?

• SaaS provides software applications over the internet, PaaS offers a platform allowing customers to develop, run, and manage applications, and IaaS provides virtualized computing resources over the internet.

• SaaS offers virtualized computing resources, PaaS provides software applications, and IaaS offers a platform for application development.

• SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS all provide the same services but with different pricing models.

• SaaS and PaaS are the same, while IaaS is different.

Which of the following best describes the implications of using cloud storage in a business environment?

• It offers both advantages and potential risks, and businesses should take measures to mitigate these risks.

• It only provides advantages with no potential risks.

• It only presents risks with no advantages.

• It is irrelevant to modern business practices.

The impact of the Internet of Things (IoT) on everyday life includes:

• Increased connectivity and automation

• Decreased reliance on technology

• Reduced data collection

• Limited device integration

Explain how Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and Remote Desktop Technologies support remote working. Include a discussion of the security risks associated with remote working and how these risks can be mitigated.

• VPNs and Remote Desktop Technologies enable secure remote access and mitigate security risks through encryption and authentication.

• VPNs and Remote Desktop Technologies are used only for entertainment purposes and do not support remote working.

• Remote Desktop Technologies are more secure than VPNs and do not require any additional security measures.

• VPNs are only used for bypassing geo-restrictions and have no role in remote working.

In a scenario where an employee’s laptop has been stolen, what is the first step an organisation should take to secure its data and minimise potential damage?

• Notify the police

• Change all passwords

• Wipe the laptop remotely

• Inform all employees

Which factors should be considered when choosing an online system for a business?

• Security, cost, ease of use, and connectivity

• Only security and cost

• Only ease of use and connectivity

• None of the above

Compare and contrast blogs, microblogs, vlogs, and wikis. Discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each type of online community.

• Blogs and microblogs are the same, while vlogs and wikis are different.

• Blogs and vlogs are similar, while microblogs and wikis are different.

• Blogs, microblogs, vlogs, and wikis each have unique strengths and weaknesses.

• All four types are identical in function and purpose.

Discuss the role of influencers in online communities. How do they impact consumer behaviour, and what are the potential risks and benefits for businesses when working with influencers?

• Influencers can shape consumer opinions and drive purchasing decisions, offering businesses increased brand visibility and engagement, but also pose risks like potential misalignment with brand values or negative publicity.

• Influencers have no impact on consumer behaviour and offer no benefits or risks to businesses.

• Influencers only provide risks to businesses without any benefits.

• Influencers are irrelevant in online communities and do not affect consumer behaviour.

The implications of using online communities for both individuals and organisations include:

• Ease of use, performance, availability, and accessibility

• Privacy concerns and data security

• Increased costs and resource allocation

• Limited reach and engagement

Evaluate the importance of ensuring that websites and online communities are accessible to all users, including those with disabilities. Discuss measures that can be taken to improve accessibility.

• Ensuring accessibility is crucial for inclusivity and equal access.

• Accessibility is not important for online communities.

• Only physical stores need to be accessible, not websites.

• Accessibility measures are too costly to implement.