Networks - JC Remake 2025

• Computing
• Lower Secondary (Key Stage 3)

Networks -  2025 - 26

What is a computer network and where are they used?

To understand the key components that form a network.

All: Can describe what a network is and identify the key parts (e.g. switch, router, server).

Most: Can describe what each key network component does.

Some: Can explain where networks are used and why they’re suitable in different situations.

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)

What things do you use that rely on a network?

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.

Jargon Buster

"Collaborate"

Origin

Col - latin for together 

laborate - latin for to work

Prefix links - Collect, collate, collide, colleague

Synonym / Antonyms

Synonyms

Cooperate

Team up

Work together

Partner

Contribute

Coordinate

Join forces

Antonyms

Compete

oppose

undermine

go solo

isolate

conflict

refuse to cooperate

Why do you think it’s helpful to have a network in a school, a hospital, or a business?

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.

Task: Design Your Home Network

Use this website to create a diagram of your home network - click here

✅ Steps:

• Drag out icons like a router, switch, computer, phone, smart TV, printer, etc.
• Click on an icon, then click on one of the small arrows to draw a line to connect it to another device.
• Label the items clearly and make sure they are connected realistically.

💡 What to include:

• Internet connection
• Router
• At least two client devices (e.g. laptop, tablet)
• Optional: Printer, server, smart TV, gaming console, etc.

Challenge

Can you include a wireless access point and show which devices connect to it?

Extension task

Using the same site as before

Can you research what a STAR and MESH network is and build one of each on your screen?

Also can you find out ONE advantage and ONE disadvantage to each

Jargon burst - write down as many terms as you can remember from this session?

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