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Year 9 - Computing

Protecting networks from security threats

Introduction to cybersecurity

Unit Summary

This unit takes pupils on a journey of discovery about techniques used by cybercriminals to steal data, disrupt systems and infiltrate networks. They will consider the value of data to organisations and what it is used for. They will look at social engineering techniques and common cybercrimes.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to compare threats to the security of a computer system and suggest protective actions to take.

Key Notes

  • Threats to security can be compared by likelihood and impact.
  • Protective measures are used to make it difficult for attackers to achieve their goals.
  • Combinations of protective measures make computer systems more secure.
  • Training users of a network about risks can help keep a network secure.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • cybersecurity: the protection of computer systems from threats
  • firewall: a system that filters network traffic to protect against unauthorised flows of data in or out of the network

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • Using security measures will stop every cyber attack.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Describe the system or process from this lesson in clear steps.

Threats to security can be compared by likelihood and impact. Protective measures are used to make it difficult for attackers to achieve their goals.

2. Define this computing term and give one practical example. 'cybersecurity'

the protection of computer systems from threats. Add one real device or system example to prove understanding.

3. Correct this common computing misconception.

Mistake: Using security measures will stop every cyber attack. Correction: Security measures reduce the risk of cyber attacks but cannot stop all of them. New threats and advanced techniques can sometimes bypass even the best defenses.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 9 Computing guide library.