← Computer Science syllabus

EnglandComputer Science

1.3 Computer networks, connections and protocols

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

How are networks physically arranged, and what hardware connects them?

Star and mesh network topologies and their advantages and disadvantages, and the role of network hardware (NIC, switch, router, wireless access point and transmission media).
An OCR J277 1.3.1 answer on star and mesh network topologies (with advantages and disadvantages) and the role of network hardware: the NIC, switch, router, wireless access point and transmission media.
9 min answer →

What is a network, and what makes one perform well or badly?

Types of network (LAN and WAN), the factors that affect network performance, and the difference between client-server and peer-to-peer networks.
An OCR J277 1.3.1 answer on LANs and WANs, the factors that affect network performance (bandwidth, number of users, transmission media, interference), and the difference between client-server and peer-to-peer networks.
9 min answer →

What are network protocols, and why are networks organised into layers?

Common network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, POP, IMAP, SMTP), the concept of layers and the benefits of using them.
An OCR J277 1.3.2 answer on the common network protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, POP, IMAP, SMTP), what a protocol is, the concept of network layers and the benefits of using a layered model.
9 min answer →

How do wired and wireless connections compare, and how is data sent over them?

Wired (Ethernet) versus wireless (Wi-Fi) connections and their relative advantages and disadvantages, and the role of encryption in wireless networks.
An OCR J277 1.3.2 answer on wired (Ethernet) versus wireless (Wi-Fi) connections, their relative advantages and disadvantages, and the role of encryption in keeping wireless networks secure.
8 min answer →