The Stream Wars!

I decided to review a video cast on "Twit TV" which rated the features of two video streaming apps, Meerkat and Periscope. In this assessment many great points were made, however these are all based on opinion, and what works best for the individual user. I have used these apps prior to hearing what these critics had to say so I already had my own views on the matter at hand.

Meerkat was the first app talked about, and there are some very significant factors that make it a solid competitor in the video streaming battle. The design of this apps interface is nice and can be customized to fit your purpose in using it. Another strength of Meerkat is that much like the popular Snapchat, the streams disappear after taking the video.

Periscope is another video streaming service that by default is part of Twitter, and allows users to integrate their followers easily. Unlike Meerkat where the video disappears once the app is closed, on Periscope you have 24 hours to watch the streams, then they vanish.

After watching this video cast my opinions haven't changed much, I still prefer the functionality of Periscope more. The two streaming Apps are more similar than different, choosing one really depends on personal preference. I only like Periscope for its simplicity. Video streams don't fit my social media presence so having  simple platform was a good feature, yet in the future who knows.  This video cast did make me reconsider using Meerkat, but I will first have to find a use for video streaming services.

My advice for those who are still on the fence about which to use, try them both and choose the one that offers the services you find helpful. Video streaming is still new and being tested, it is possible a better app will come out and crush the competition, so stay open minded.

Link to the Twit TV video cast:

http://twit.tv/show/ipad-today/241

Security (Hacking)

Recently I have had some extra time, due to my hard work throughout the semester, allowing me to gain some additional insight on a few topics. During my Professional Persona project, I found many exciting areas of Information Technology, the one I am going to talk about is, IT Security. Above all other areas of interest, this particular area is my absolute favorite! One of the reasons it's my favorite area thus far, is because Networking, and Software elements are vital to understanding Security.

In order to start learning about this subject I searched for videos that could be used as resources, but I also wanted the information to be accurate, and engaging. At first I wasn't exactly sure where to start, so I figured hacking courses would be useful when trying to secure my own network. On the other hand, when using video content to learn, I need to like the person talking otherwise the concepts just don't sink in. Many IT Security and Hacking videos out there are power point presentations, with either a bored individual or computer as the narrator. I watched quite a few videos before finding what I was looking for, then finally I found a credible and likable source.

Eli The Computer Guy

Eli's YouTube Channel


The result of my being picky couldn't have been more perfect, I found an intellectual who was humble enough to give off good vibes. Eli the Computer Guy has a sizable following on YouTube, however that didn't matter to me, I just want to learn Security and Hacking. Eli has videos for all levels, and interests of Computing Technology, but I focused on the lessons related to hacking.

On his Hacking Playlist,  Eli-the-Computer-Guy expresses a very deep understanding of many important concepts. I have much to learn in this area, and his video's are by no means an alternative to my goal, an IT Security College Degree. Although, by watching and taking extensive notes on the many exploits Eli has provided, my passion for learning Cyber Security has increased greatly. Eli's channel has been a valuable tool in providing useful information on how hackers work. He also taught great methods to prevent low level hackers from compromising my own systems.

Hacking Playlist

Securing the Network

IT Programming

Intro to Networks

I have been trying to improve my skills as an Information Technology enthusiast, which has lead me to many fields of interest which I plan to pursue, and become advanced in. I have started with Networking IT, this is my main area and I wouldn't have it any other way. This is because I enjoy learning how Internet protocols work, and effect the way we receive information. It is now the end of the semester, with about one month left, and I can honestly say my passions in my studies have grown exponentially.

In my family their are quite a few people who have gone through school to become employed in the various computer jobs available. I have contacted all of them to further my understanding of this new found passion, they have all taught me valuable insights. One of these family members is a high level Computer Engineer, who works for Oracle in Boulder, CO I have talked to him the most and have come to the conclusion all IT areas are complimented by each other. It is best to practice all areas of tech, then over time find out what I excel in, then become a specialist in that area to become valuable to a company.

From the start I had an interest in Software Development, meaning I should learn how to code in the many forms that are accepted among the programming specialists. I have learned about quite a few types of coding, but have had little time to practice them due to my homework and classes in Networking. Staying ahead in my classwork has given me a bit of free time to start pursuing these other areas of IT I am interested in, IT Programming, Computer Engineering, and also Network Security/Hacking.

Learning More

I have started working on a bit of coding, though very basic I am starting to get the hang of the more simple "Languages" such as PHP and HTML. To get stronger with this I am actually writing this blog in an HTML text format, it is a little awkward, but so was converting binary into IP Addresses at first. I already have taken a few online HTML courses to learn enough code to create a basic text document, with a minor understanding of adding links, and images.CODE ACADEMY This is the site a found that taught me the very basics of html.

I think with enough time and effort spent of each field of IT, becoming a well rounded individual will allow me to advance in the area I decide to specialize in, when that time comes. I have also learned a few basic components in the security of networks, I watched and followed many videos on "ethical" hacking. I also have a trip planned out, in which I will be building a desktop computer from scratch to gain skills in the computer engineering realm. Over the next few years I will be completely immersing myself in technology, and am excited to see the results by the time I finish my degree at MATC.