Year 11 - Computing
Network basics
Network fundamentals
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This pupil-friendly study guide includes a unit summary, clear notes, common mistakes, and quick questions with answers.
Unit Summary
In this unit pupils will be develop their understanding of computer networks by looking at network models and the tasks performed by network hardware. They will discover the differences between wired and wireless transmission media and the factors that can affect the performance of a network.
Lesson Summary
You will learn to explain the benefits and drawbacks of computer networks and how they are implemented as peer-to-peer models.
Key Notes
- Networks allow devices to share resources and communicate efficiently.
- Networks also have drawbacks, such as security risks and maintenance costs.
- In a peer-to-peer network, each computer can share resources directly.
Vocabulary To Learn
- client: a device that requests services, files or resources from a server on a network
- server: a computer that stores, manages and shares files, data and resources in a network
- peer-to-peer: a type of network where each device (peer) can act as both a client and a server, sharing files and resources directly without a central server
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- All networks must have a server because a server is always needed to share files or printers between devices.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Describe the system or process from this lesson in clear steps.
Networks allow devices to share resources and communicate efficiently. Networks also have drawbacks, such as security risks and maintenance costs.
2. Define this computing term and give one practical example. 'client'
a device that requests services, files or resources from a server on a network. Add one real device or system example to prove understanding.
3. Correct this common computing misconception.
Mistake: All networks must have a server because a server is always needed to share files or printers between devices. Correction: Not all networks need a server. In a peer-to-peer model, each computer can act as both client and server, sharing files directly. This setup is simpler but may lack central control and security.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 11 Computing guide library.