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3.5 Fundamentals of computer networks

4 dot points across 4 inquiry questions. Click any dot point for a focused answer with worked past exam questions where available.

How do we keep a network and its data safe?

Understand the methods used to keep a network secure, including authentication, encryption, firewalls and MAC address filtering.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.5.4, covering the methods used to keep a network secure, including authentication, encryption, firewalls and MAC address filtering.
7 min answer →

How are computers connected together, and in what shapes?

Understand what a network is, the difference between a LAN and a WAN, and the star and bus (mesh) network topologies.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.5.1, covering what a network is, the difference between a LAN and a WAN, and the star and bus network topologies.
8 min answer →

What rules let different devices communicate over a network?

Understand the purpose of network protocols, the common protocols and ports, and the four-layer TCP/IP model and why layering is used.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.5.3, covering the purpose of network protocols, the common protocols and ports, and the four-layer TCP/IP model and why layering is used.
8 min answer →

Should devices connect by cable or wirelessly, and how?

Compare wired and wireless connectivity, understand how Wi-Fi works, and the role of encryption in wireless networks.
A focused answer to AQA GCSE Computer Science 3.5.2, covering the comparison of wired and wireless connectivity, how Wi-Fi works, and the role of encryption in wireless networks.
7 min answer →