Networks - JC Remake 2025

• Computing
• Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3)

Y11 revision unit 3 

1. Define the term Network
2. Define the term client
3. State 2 examples of networks

To understand the key components that form a network.

Strengthening: Revise different networks and hardware.

Excelling: Complete full exam level answers. 

What is a Network?

A network is when two or more computers or devices are connected to share information, files, or resources (like printers or the internet).

There are two main types:

LAN (Local Area Network) – small area (like a school or home)

WAN (Wide Area Network) – larger area (like the internet)

Hardware

We use a range of hardware to build and maintain a network. 

Sort the following pieces of hardware to their purpose. 

Match the Network Component to What it Does

Sends data between different networks, like your home and the internet.

Connects devices within a network and directs data to the right device.

Stores and provides information or services to other devices on the network.

A device (like a laptop) that asks for data or services from a server.

Lets wireless devices (like phones or tablets) connect to the network.

Protects the network from hackers and unwanted traffic.

Key Network Components

• Switch – Connects devices in a network and sends data to the right place.
• Router – Sends data between networks (e.g. your home and the internet).
• Server – Stores and provides information or services to devices.
• Client – The device that asks for something (like your laptop).
• WAP (Wireless Access Point) – Lets wireless devices connect to the network.
• Firewall – Helps protect the network from unwanted access.

Why Use a Network?

• Share files and data – like shared folders, emailing or viewing webpages
• Share hardware(devices) – like the printer in this room!
• Share software - centrally put out updates and new software installations

Networks allow people to collaborate 

Networks help people and devices connect and work smarter.

LAN (Local area network)

A LAN covers a small area such as one site or building, eg a school or a college.

Upsides and downsides of LAN?

LAN (Upsides ) 

• Fast speeds – data travels quickly because devices are close together

• Cheap to run – no phone lines or internet fees needed

• More secure – only people in the building can access it

• Easy to share files and printers

• Reliable – fewer connection problems

LAN (Downsides) 

• Limited range – only works in one building or small area

• Needs hardware (cables, switches, routers)

• Requires an administrator to manage users and security

WAN (Wide area network)

A WAN covers a large geographical area. Most WANs are made from several LANs connected together.

Upsides and downsides of WAN?

WAN(Upsides) 

• Connects computers over long distances

• Allows global communication

• Users can access data from anywhere

• Useful for large organisations

WAN(Downsides) 

• Slower than a LAN

• More expensive (internet service providers, phone lines, fibre, etc.)

• Less secure – data travels through public networks

• More likely to suffer from failures or hacking

Network Examples in Real Life

• School LAN – Shares printers, files, and internet.
• Shops – Connects tills to the stock system.
• Gaming – Online multiplayer needs fast, reliable networks.
• Offices – Teams use networks to email, share files, and access servers.

Build 3 networks 

Star, full mesh and partial mesh

Click here

 What to include:

Internet connection

Router

At least two client devices (e.g. laptop, tablet)

Optional: Printer, server, smart TV, gaming console, etc.

Partial/full mesh

Upsides:

• If one cable fails other routes are available. 

• New systems can be easily added.

• Withstand large amounts of traffic.

Partial/full mesh

Downsides

• Expensive to install and maintain

• Can lead to redundant cables. 

• 
  

Star topology 

Upsides

• Improved security 

• New systems can be directly added to the central system.

• Transfer speeds are fast. 

Star topology 

Downsides

• Extra hardware is required

• Central failure point 

What is the main job of a router in a network?

1. Stores and shares files
2. Sends data between different networks
3. Connects devices to a printer
4. Protects the network from viruses

Which device is usually the one requesting data or services on a network?

1. Server
2. Switch
3. Client
4. Firewall

What is one of the main benefits of having a network in a school?

1. To make each computer work completely on its own
2. To stop students from accessing websites
3. To allow devices to share resources and work together
4. To upgrade the graphics on all school computers

Can devices communicate directly with each other in a 'Star' topology?

1. No, all communication goes through the central hub or switch
2. Yes, devices can communicate directly with each other
3. Yes, but only if they are connected to the same central hub or switch
4. It depends on the type of devices being used

What is the advantage of a Mesh Topology?

1. Easy to set up
2. Requires less cabling
3. No single point of failure
4. Highly reliable and fault-tolerant