Computer Science

Basic networks

What are networks?

Real-world networks

Configuring networks

The IP Suite and packet switching

Network speed and performance

Networks

MAC addresses are used to ensure each piece of hardware has its own unique address. What does MAC stand for?

How many digits are there in a MAC address?

If each pair of digits in a MAC address is written between hexadecimal 00 and FF, what are the decimal equivalents of these?

Faster transmission speeds than wireless networks

Wired networks require lots of switches and equipment

Select one STRENGTH of WIRED networks from those listed below:

Can be difficult to get cable to all locations required

Harder to intercept data being transmitted

Radio waves can be affected by interference

Select one WEAKNESS of WIRED networks from those listed below:

Select one STRENGTH of WIRELESS networks from those listed below:

Quicker to install — one WAP can network a whole office

Select one WEAKNESS of WIRELESS networks from those listed below:

"Responsible for moving data from one network to another, e.g. from your home network to the internet" refers to which piece of networking hardware?

"Converts data from analogue to digital signals so that it can be transmitted across different media — traditionally, telephone cables" refers to which piece of networking hardware?

"Enables a wired network connection between a computer and another networked device" refers to which piece of networking hardware?

"Enables multiple wired devices to connect, and uses packet switching to direct data to the correct device" refers to which piece of networking hardware?

"Performs a similar function to the network interface card but uses radio signals to connect to the network" refers to which piece of networking hardware?

"Connects to a wired network and provides wireless network radio signal for wireless devices to connect to" refers to which piece of networking hardware?

This lesson will be removed by the end of the Spring Term 2026.

Basic networks

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by the end of the Spring Term 2026.