Year 11 - Computing
Types of network
Network fundamentals
Study Hub
Study Guides
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 describe how devices operate in a client–server network and explain the purpose of different types of networks.
Key Notes
- A client is a device that makes requests on a network.
- A server is a device that responds to requests and provides services.
- Computers on a network can act as clients or servers, each with a specific role.
- Different network types (PAN, LAN, WAN) are used for communication over varying distances.
Vocabulary To Learn
- client-server model: a network where devices are designated as clients or servers
- personal area network (PAN): a network of personal devices that allows data to be exchanged within their immediate vicinity
- local area network (LAN): a single network covering a single site, usually covering a small geographical area
- wide area network (WAN): two or more distinct networks connected together, usually covering a large geographical area
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- All devices in a network do the same thing, they just send and receive data.
3 Quick Questions (With Answers)
1. Describe the system or process from this lesson in clear steps.
A client is a device that makes requests on a network. A server is a device that responds to requests and provides services.
2. Define this computing term and give one practical example. 'client-server model'
a network where devices are designated as clients or servers. Add one real device or system example to prove understanding.
3. Correct this common computing misconception.
Mistake: All devices in a network do the same thing, they just send and receive data. Correction: In a client–server network, devices have different roles. Servers provide services like file storage or email. Clients request and use those services, rather than providing them.
More Lessons In This Unit
Browse all guides in the Year 11 Computing guide library.