Networks and the effects of using them
Network devices, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, cloud computing, the internet, intranets and extranets, types of network, network security and electronic conferencing.
📌 Key points
- A router connects a local network to other networks such as the internet, sends data packets to the right destination using IP addresses, and can give IP addresses to devices.
- A network interface card (NIC) lets a device connect to a network and contains a unique MAC address that identifies the device.
- A hub sends data to every device on the network; a switch checks the MAC address and sends data only to the device it is meant for, which is more secure and reduces traffic.
- Wi-Fi connects devices wirelessly over a longer range and at higher speed, e.g. to a network or the internet; Bluetooth connects a small number of devices over a short range, e.g. wireless headphones.
- Cloud computing stores data and runs software on remote servers accessed over the internet: data can be reached from anywhere and is backed up by the provider, but an internet connection is needed and the data's security depends on the provider.
- The internet is a worldwide public network of networks; an intranet is a private network for an organisation's own members; an extranet lets authorised outside users (e.g. suppliers) access part of an intranet.
- A LAN covers a small area such as one building; a WLAN is a LAN using wireless access points; a WAN covers a large geographical area (the internet is the largest WAN).
- Network security: passwords should be strong (long, with upper and lower case letters, numbers and symbols) and changed regularly; other authentication methods include biometrics, magnetic stripe cards, smart cards and physical or electronic tokens; anti-malware software scans for and removes malware.
- Electronic conferencing: video conferencing (webcams, microphones, speakers, screens), audio conferencing (phones or VoIP) and web conferencing (webinars, shared screens); it saves travel time and cost, but depends on a good connection and time zones can be a problem.
📖 Key terms
- Router
- A device that connects networks and sends data packets towards their destination using IP addresses.
- Switch
- A device that sends data only to the device on the network it is addressed to.
- Intranet
- A private network used within an organisation and accessible only to its members.
- Extranet
- Part of an intranet that authorised people outside the organisation can access.
- WAN
- Wide area network: a network covering a large geographical area.
- Cloud computing
- Storing data and using software on remote servers accessed over the internet.
- Biometrics
- Authentication using a person's unique physical features, e.g. fingerprint or face.
✏️ Worked example
A company with offices in three countries is considering video conferencing instead of meetings in person. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
- Advantage: no travel costs (flights, hotels) and no time lost travelling.
- Advantage: meetings can be arranged at short notice and staff are safer as they do not travel.
- Disadvantage: time zone differences make it hard to find a suitable time.
- Disadvantage: a poor internet connection can cause delays, lag or dropped calls, and equipment must be bought.
- Conclusion: give a balanced judgement, e.g. good for regular meetings, but some important meetings may still be held in person.
"Discuss" or "evaluate" questions need both advantages and disadvantages, and a conclusion for full marks. Do not repeat the same idea in different words.
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