Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
Source: Own Illustration
Imagine working every day on a computer that seems to run smoothly. Everything works as usual – until one day a security problem is discovered that nobody knew about. Suddenly, a security vulnerability is discovered that attackers have known about for weeks or even months and taken advantage of undetected. This type of vulnerability is known as a zero-day vulnerability. In this blog post, we’ll explore what exactly zero-day vulnerabilities are, why they are particularly dangerous and how best to deal with them.
RWTHapp: New Feature for Loans in the University Library
Source: Own illustration
We are pleased to announce an exciting new feature in the RWTHapp! From now on, all RWTH students have the opportunity to borrow books from the University Library (UB) even more easily. The new barcode scanning feature of the RWTHapp makes borrowing books easier than ever before.
The Beginnings of Computer Technology – Part 2
Source: Konrad Zuse Internet Archive
In our last article, The beginnings of computer technology, we already took a look at the first calculating machines by Konrad Zuse. Now we want to discuss the individual components of the Z3, which is considered to be the world’s first fully programmable computer, and find out which of its concepts are still used in modern computer technology. In particular, this article will focus on the architecture of the Z3.
Fire Safety in Focus: Smoke Detector Day
Source: RWTH Aachen
Friday, December 13, 2024, was the annual Smoke Detector Day – an event that draws attention to the importance of working smoke detectors. What is often regarded as an unlucky day is to be turned into a lucky day through preventative measures.
Thirty years ago, there were more than twice as many fire deaths as there are today. This decline is mainly due to the gradual introduction of mandatory smoke alarms in the individual federal states, which were implemented independently of each other. Hesse made the start in 2005, and Berlin finally introduced the obligation in 2017. The educational work of the fire department and initiatives such as “Smoke alarms save lives” from 2000 are also making a significant contribution to this.
Research Data Management at RWTH Aachen University: An Overview
Source: Own Illustration
Research data management (RDM) is a central topic in modern science that goes far beyond the mere collection and storage of data. It encompasses all processes that are necessary to securely collect, store and analyze data and make it usable in the long term. At RWTH Aachen University, a clear guideline and a structured infrastructure around the data lifecycle for RDM is provided, enabling researchers to manage their data sustainably and follow the principles of good scientific practice.
How Does My Social Media Algorithm Work?
Source: [freepik]
This is where social media algorithms come into play: they determine what content is displayed in our feeds and ensure that each user receives a personalized experience. This means that no two people see exactly the same content, even if they follow the same accounts.
IT Center Annual Review 2024
Source: Freepik
The year 2024 is drawing to a close – a year full of exciting projects, successful collaborations and unforgettable moments at the IT Centre. From innovative events and new partnerships to internal team celebrations and significant changes and new ones, the year was characterised by growth, collaboration and joint development. In our annual review, we take a look at the highlights, changes and successes that made our year so special.
New Year at the IT Center: Together into 2025
Source: Own Illustration
The IT Center wishes all readers a happy new year! Just as you, dear reader, have probably been thinking about good resolutions that you want to try to realise in 2025, we have also made some plans for 2025: Together with you, we want to implement exciting projects, drive forward digital innovations and make IT services even more user-friendly.
Advent Door #4: The IT Center Christmas Party 2024
Source: Own illustration
We open the last Advent door and share some insights into this year’s Christmas party.
On December 13, 2024, it was that time again: the annual Christmas party took place and brought together the IT Center staff, alumni and family members to end the year together. With a festive atmosphere, good food and exciting activities, it was an all-round successful afternoon and evening!
The Beginnings of Computer Technology
Source: Konrad Zuse Internet Archive
Computers have become an essential part of our lives and significantly influence our daily routine. From using them at work, to gaming at home, to listening to music, writing messages and social media on our cell phones. We already took a closer look at how our computers work today and what lies behind them in our last article “From Click to Display, This is How Computers Calculate”. But how did this journey begin?
