Perform basic operations of cloud computing including internet and email services -Unit 5

 

 1. Accessing Internet Services

The Internet is a global network that allows users to browse websites, send emails, download files, and communicate in real time. To use the Internet effectively, you need to understand basic operations such as using a web browser, searching for information, downloading content, and managing browser settings.

1.1 Selecting & Opening a Web Browser

A web browser is a software application that allows users to access and interact with websites.

Popular Web Browsers:

Google Chrome – Fast, widely used, syncs with Google account.

Mozilla Firefox – Secure, privacy-focused, customizable.

Microsoft Edge – Default browser in Windows, integrated with Bing AI.

 Safari – Default browser for Apple devices (Mac, iPhone, iPad).

Opera – Has a built-in VPN and ad blocker for secure browsing.

How to Open a Web Browser?

Windows Users:

Click on the browser icon on the desktop or taskbar.

Press Windows Key + R, type chrome or firefox, and press Enter.

 

 Mac Users:

Click on the Safari or other browser icon in the Dock.

Press Command + Space, type Safari, and press Enter.

 1.2 Navigating Web Pages

When browsing the Internet, you need to navigate through different websites smoothly.

 Navigation Buttons:

 Back (⬅) Button: Takes you to the previously visited page.

 Forward (➡) Button: Moves forward to a page if you went back.

 Home Button: Opens your homepage instantly.

 Scroll Bar: Helps move up and down the webpage.

 Address Bar:

Type a website’s URL (e.g., www.google.com) to visit it directly.

Autocomplete suggestions appear as you type for quick access.

 1.3 Refresh, Reload & Stop Buttons

These buttons help manage how web pages load.

Refresh (F5): Reloads the webpage to display updated content (e.g., new Facebook posts).

Stop Button: Stops the loading of a webpage if it’s taking too long or showing errors.

1.4 Managing Bookmarks & Favorites

Bookmarks allow users to save and organize frequently visited websites for quick access.

 How to Bookmark a Page?

 Google Chrome & Firefox: Click the ⭐ (Star icon) in the address bar and name your bookmark.

Microsoft Edge: Click "Add to Favorites" and select a folder.

Organizing Bookmarks:

1. Open the Bookmark Manager from browser settings.
2. Create folders for different categories (e.g., Work, Study, News).
3. Drag and drop bookmarks into folders.

 1.5 Saving Web Pages for Offline Use

This feature allows users to access web pages without an Internet connection.

How to Save a Web Page?

1. Google Chrome & Firefox: Press Ctrl + S (Windows) / Cmd + S (Mac).
2. Choose "Webpage, Complete" to save all content (text, images).
3. Open the saved file later in any browser.

 Useful for: Reading articles offline, saving receipts, and archiving important information.

 1.6 Customizing Browser Settings

Users can personalize their browsing experience by modifying browser settings.

Changing the Homepage:

1. Open Settings in your browser.
2. Look for "Homepage" or "On Startup" options.
3. Enter the preferred website URL (e.g., www.google.com).

Changing the Default Search Engine:

1. Open browser Settings.
2. Go to Search Engine settings.
3. Select Google, Bing, DuckDuckGo, Yahoo, etc.

 Why Customize Settings?
        Faster browsing experience.
        Privacy protection.
        Quick access to frequently used sites.

 1.7 Choosing a Search Engine

A search engine is a tool that helps users find information on the Internet.

Popular Search Engines:

 Google – Most powerful, widely used.
 Bing – Microsoft-powered, integrated with Edge.
 Yahoo – Provides web search, news, and email.
 DuckDuckGo – Privacy-focused, no tracking.

 How to Search Effectively?

 Use keywords: "Best hotels in Jaffna" instead of "hotels."
 Use quotes (" "): "cloud computing basics" to get exact results.
 Use minus (-) sign: apple -fruit (to exclude results about fruit).

1.8 Using AI-Based Search Engines

AI-powered search engines use artificial intelligence to provide smarter, more personalized search results.

AI Search Tools:

 Google Bard – AI-powered search assistant for answering queries.
 ChatGPT – Provides AI-generated answers and summaries.
 Perplexity AI – Gives direct, precise answers from the web.
 Microsoft Copilot – AI-integrated search for productivity tasks.

Why Use AI Search?
Faster, summarized results.

 Helps with research and learning.
 Generates content (blogs, captions, ideas).

 1.9 Searching & Downloading Files

Users can download documents, images, audio, video, and software from the Internet.

 Safe Downloading Practices:

 Download from official websites (e.g., Microsoft, Adobe, Google).
 Avoid unknown links from pop-up ads or emails.
 Scan files with antivirus software before opening.

 1.10 Clearing Search History & Temporary Files

 Why Clear Browsing Data?

 Improves browser speed.
 Protects privacy (removes history, cookies, saved passwords).

 How to Clear History?

1. Open Settings → Privacy & Security → Clear browsing data.
2. Select Browsing history, Cookies, Cached images/files.
3. Click "Clear Data".

 Shortcut: Press Ctrl + Shift + Del (Windows) / Cmd + Shift + Del (Mac).

 1.11 Managing Plug-ins, Add-ons & Extensions

Extensions add extra features to browsers.

 How to Install Extensions?

1. Chrome: Go to "More (⋮) → Extensions → Open Chrome Web Store."
2. Firefox: Go to "Menu (☰) → Add-ons → Get Add-ons."

 Warning: Too many extensions slow down your browser!

 1.12 Printing Web Pages

Users can print full web pages or selected portions.

 How to Print?

1. Press Ctrl + P (Windows) / Cmd + P (Mac).
2. Choose printer or Save as PDF.
3. Click Print.

 Print Selection: Highlight text → Right-click → Print Selection.

2. Use email services 

2.1 Creating & Signing Up for an Email Account

To use email services, you need to create an email account.

 Popular Email Providers:

Gmail – Best for Google integration.
Outlook – Microsoft’s email service, used for business emails.
Yahoo Mail – Offers free storage and customization.

Steps to Create an Email Account (Gmail Example):

1.Go to www.gmail.com and click Create Account.
2.Select For Myself or For Business.
3. Enter your Name, Username, Password, and click Next.
4. Add a Phone Number for security & recovery.
 5.Enter Date of Birth & Gender, then click Next.
 6.Agree to Google’s Terms & Privacy Policy.
 7.Your email account is ready to use!

 Tip: Use a strong password (mix of letters, numbers, symbols).

 2.2 Signing Into Your Email Account

Once you have created an email account, follow these steps to sign in.

 How to Sign In?

1.Go to your email provider’s website (Gmail, Outlook, Yahoo).
2.Click Sign In.
3.Enter your Email Address & Password.
4. Click Next / Login.
5. You are now signed in to your inbox!

2.3 Checking Emails

After signing in, you can check your inbox for new emails.

How to Check Emails?

 Open the Inbox to view received emails.
 Click on an email subject to open & read.
 Use Search Bar to find specific emails.
Check Spam/Junk Folder for missing emails.
 Archive or Delete emails for better organization.

 2.4 Sending Emails (With CC & BCC)

You can compose and send emails to one or multiple recipients.

 Steps to Send an Email:

1.Click on Compose / New Mail.
2. Enter Recipient’s Email Address in the To field.
3. Enter CC (Carbon Copy) – Sends a copy to other recipients.
4. Enter BCC (Blind Carbon Copy) – Sends a hidden copy.
5. Type a Subject (short & clear).
6. Write the Message / Body.
7. Click Send.

 2.5 Sending Emails with Attachments

You can attach documents, images, and files to your emails.

 Steps to Attach Files:

1.Click Compose / New Mail.
2. Enter Recipient’s Email, Subject & Message.
3. Click on 📎 (Attach File) icon.
4. Select the file from your computer or cloud storage.
5. Click Open to attach.
6. Click Send.

 Tip:
Compress large files before attaching.

 Use Google Drive / OneDrive links for big files.

3.Work with social media/sites

3.1 Accessing Social Media Sites Following Best Practices

Social media platforms are widely used for communication, networking, business, and entertainment. To use them effectively, you should follow best practices.

 Popular Social Media Platforms:

 Facebook – For networking, business pages, and groups.
 Instagram – For sharing images, stories, and reels.
 Twitter (X) – For real-time news and short updates.
 LinkedIn – For professional networking and job opportunities.
 TikTok – For short video content and trends.
 YouTube – For video sharing and monetization.

 Best Practices for Using Social Media:

 Use Strong Passwords – Protect your accounts from hacking.
 Enable 2-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Adds extra security.
 Privacy Settings – Adjust who can see your posts and profile.
 Avoid Sharing Personal Data – Prevent scams and fraud.
 Fact-Check Before Sharing – Avoid spreading misinformation.
 Follow Community Guidelines – To avoid account suspension.
 Be Professional – If using social media for business or work.

 3.2 Adding Content to Social Media Networks

Posting engaging content helps in building an audience, increasing engagement, and promoting brands.

 Types of Social Media Content:

 Text Posts – Short updates, questions, or discussions.
 Images & Graphics – High-quality visuals, memes, infographics.
 Videos – Short clips, reels, promotional videos.
 Stories – Temporary updates on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp.
 Live Videos – Interact with followers in real-time.
 Polls & Surveys – Get audience opinions and engagement.
 Links – Share blog posts, news, or other resources.

Steps to Add Content to Social Media:

1.Log in to your social media account.
2. Click on Create Post / New Post.
3. Add Text, Images, or Videos as needed.
4. Use Hashtags (#) for better reach.
5. Tag people or businesses if required.
6. Set the Privacy Settings (Public, Friends, Private).
7. Click Post / Publish.

 3.3 Creating & Managing a YouTube Channel

YouTube is a powerful platform for video content, tutorials, entertainment, and business promotion.

 Steps to Create a YouTube Channel:

1. Sign in to www.youtube.com with your Google account.
2. Click on your profile icon and select "Create a Channel".
3. Enter a Channel Name & Description.
4. Upload a Profile Picture & Banner Image.
5. Customize Privacy & Monetization Settings.
6. Click Create, and your channel is ready!

 Managing Your YouTube Channel:

 Upload Videos Regularly – To keep your audience engaged.
 Use SEO Keywords – Helps videos rank in search results.
 Create Playlists – Organize similar content together.
 Enable Monetization – Earn revenue from ads (requires 1,000+ subscribers & 4,000 watch hours).
 Check Analytics – Understand audience behavior & improve content.

 4. Use Software Applications Collaboratively

 Learn how to create, share, and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, presentations, and data collection forms!

 4.1 Creating & Sharing Word Processing Files for Collaboration

Word processing software like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, and LibreOffice Writer allows multiple users to collaborate on documents in real time.

Steps to Create & Share Word Documents (Google Docs Example):

1.Go to docs.google.com and sign in with your Google account.
2. Click on Blank Document or open an existing one.
3. Type or edit your document.
4. Click Share in the top-right corner.
5. Enter email addresses of collaborators.
6. Set permission levels:

• Viewer– Can only read.
• Commenter– Can suggest edits.
• Editor  – Can make direct changes.

7. Click Send to share the document.

4.2 Creating & Sharing Spreadsheet Files for Collaboration

Spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and LibreOffice Calc help in collaborative data management.

 Steps to Create & Share a Spreadsheet (Google Sheets Example):

1.Open sheets.google.com and sign in.
2. Click Blank Spreadsheet or open an existing file.
3. Enter data in the cells as needed.
4. Click Share and enter email addresses of collaborators.
5. Set permissions (Viewer, Commenter, Editor).
6. Click Send to share the spreadsheet.

4.3 Creating & Sharing Presentations for Collaboration

Presentation tools like Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Canva allow team-based creation and editing of slideshows.

 Steps to Create & Share a Presentation (Google Slides Example):

1.Open slides.google.com and sign in.
2. Click Blank Presentation or select a template.
3. Design slides with text, images, and animations.
4. Click Share  and enter collaborators' emails.
5. Set permission levels (Viewer, Commenter, Editor).
6. Click Send to allow team collaboration.

4.4 Creating & Using Data Collection Forms

Forms are useful for surveys, feedback, registrations, and data collection. Tools like Google Forms, Microsoft Forms make it easy to collect and analyze responses.

 Steps to Create a Google Form for Data Collection:

1.Open forms.google.com and sign in.
2.Click Blank Form or select a template.
3. Add questions using multiple-choice, short text, or dropdowns.
4. Click Settings to enable required options (e.g., collect email addresses).
5. Click Send and share via email, link, or embed.
6. View responses in Google Forms or Google Sheets.

5.Use software applications for video conference 

5.1 Scheduling Video Conferences with Host & Participant Permissions

Video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams allow users to schedule and host virtual meetings.

 Steps to Schedule a Video Conference (Example: Zoom)

1.Open Zoom and sign in.
2. Click Schedule a Meeting.
3. Enter Meeting Topic & Description.
4. Set the Date & Time.
5. Choose Meeting Duration.
6. Configure Security Settings (e.g., passcode, waiting room).
7. Set Host & Participant Permissions:

• Host – Full control over the meeting.
• Co-host – Limited controls (if enabled).
• Participants – Can join, mute/unmute, chat, and share screens.

  8.Click Save and share the Meeting Link with participants.

5.2 Hosting Video Conferences Following Ethics & Procedures

When hosting video conferences, follow professional and ethical guidelines to ensure smooth communication.

 Best Practices for Hosting a Video Conference:

Start on Time – Ensure punctuality.
Mute Participants When Needed – Avoid background noise.
Use Virtual Backgrounds – If required for privacy.
Maintain Professionalism – Dress appropriately for formal meetings.
Stick to the Agenda – Keep discussions focused.
Follow Organizational Guidelines – Respect company policies.
Avoid Recording Without Permission – Get consent before recording.

5.3 Keeping Attendance Records of Participants

Most video conferencing tools provide options to track attendance.

 Ways to Track Attendance:

 Zoom – Download the Participant List from the reports section.
 Google Meet – Use the Google Workspace Attendance Report.
 Microsoft Teams – Check the Attendance Report in meeting details.
 Manual Method – Ask participants to enter their names in the chat.

5.4 Recording & Storing Meeting Sessions

Recording meetings helps in reviewing discussions, training sessions, and documentation. How to Record a Meeting?

1.Click Record before starting the session.
2.Choose Local Recording (Saved on Device) or Cloud Recording (Online Storage).
3. Notify participants about recording.
4. Stop and Save the Recording when the meeting ends.
5.Share the recording via Google Drive, OneDrive, or YouTube (Private Link).

6. Handle cloud storages 

6.1 Uploading Files & Documents to Cloud Storage

Cloud storage allows users to store files online, making them accessible from any device. Common cloud storage platforms include:
 Google Drive – Free 15GB storage (Google Docs, Sheets, etc.).
 OneDrive – Microsoft’s cloud storage with Office 365 integration.
 Dropbox – File storage and sharing service.
 iCloud – Apple’s cloud solution for iOS & Mac users.
 Mega – Provides 20GB+ free storage with encryption.

 Steps to Upload Files to Cloud Storage (Example: Google Drive)

1.Open drive.google.com and sign in.
2. Click New → File Upload / Folder Upload.
3. Select the files/folders from your device.
4. Wait for the upload to complete.
5. Check files in My Drive.

6.2 Using Backup & Restore Facilities

Backing up important files ensures data safety in case of accidental deletion or system failures.

 How to Backup Files to the Cloud (Example: Google Drive Backup & Sync)

1.Install Google Drive for Desktop.
2. Sign in and select Backup & Sync options.
3. Choose folders to back up (Documents, Desktop, Pictures, etc.).
4. Enable automatic sync for real-time backup.
5.Access backed-up files from any device via Google Drive.

How to Restore Files from Cloud Storage?

 Google Drive – Move files from Trash within 30 days.
 OneDrive – Restore previous file versions via Version History.
 Dropbox – Recover deleted files within 30 days.
 iCloud – Retrieve deleted files from iCloud Drive.

 6.3 Sharing Cloud Space & Folders with Others

Cloud storage allows users to share files and folders securely with different access levels.

 Steps to Share Files/Folders in Google Drive

1.Right-click the file/folder → Click Share.
2. Enter the email addresses of recipients.
3. Set permission levels:

• Viewer  – Can only see the file.
• Commenter– Can suggest changes.
• Editor  – Can make changes.

4. Click Send or copy the shareable link.

6.4 Setting Up Automatic Cloud Syncing

Automatic syncing ensures that changes made to local files are updated in the cloud in real time.

Steps to Enable Auto-Sync (Example: OneDrive)

1.Install OneDrive for Windows/Mac.
2. Sign in with your Microsoft account.
3.Choose folders to sync (Documents, Desktop, etc.).
4. Enable Real-Time Sync for automatic updates.
5. Access synced files from OneDrive Web or Mobile App.

6.5 Accessing Cloud Storage as Required

Users can access cloud storage from PC, mobile, or web browsers.

 Ways to Access Cloud Storage:

 Web Browser – Login via Google Drive, OneDrive, Dropbox, etc.
 Mobile Apps – Download cloud storage apps for instant access.
 Desktop Sync – Files sync automatically on local devices.