New
New
Year 3

Physical components of a computer network

I can identify the physical components of a network.

New
New
Year 3

Physical components of a computer network

I can identify the physical components of a network.

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Lesson details

Key learning points

  1. Devices in a network are connected together.
  2. Network devices are all around us every day.
  3. There are benefits to computer networks.

Keywords

  • Network - a group of connected computing devices

  • Router - a device that manages the flow of data between computer networks

Common misconception

All network devices connect to each other wirelessly.

Not all network devices use wireless connections. Many devices, like switches, routers and servers, are connected using wires to create a stable and fast network.


To help you plan your year 3 computing lesson on: Physical components of a computer network, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...

You might want to show pupils the wireless access point or network switch in the classroom to help them understand how devices connect.
Teacher tip

Equipment

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Lesson video

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6 Questions

Q1.
What is a server in a network?
a device that connects to the internet
a device used to print documents
a wireless router
Correct answer: a networked computer that manages and provides data
Q2.
What does a wireless access point do?
Correct answer: connects wireless devices to a wired network
makes the network faster
stores files for the network
protects the network from viruses
Q3.
What is the main role of a switch in a network?
to block unwanted devices
to provide wireless connections
Correct answer: to connect devices within the same network
to store data for the network
Q4.
What is a computer network?
Correct answer: a group of connected computing devices
a single computer
a wireless internet connection
a type of software
Q5.
What is passed between devices in a network?
paper documents
Correct answer: digital data
audio files only
physical files
Q6.
What connects a computer to a network?
a keyboard
Correct answer: a network cable or wireless signal
a monitor
digital data

6 Questions

Q1.
What is the main benefit of a computer network?
Correct answer: it allows devices to share resources
it makes devices faster
it protects devices from viruses
it reduces electricity usage
Q2.
Where can computer networks be found?
only in big businesses
only in offices
only in schools
Correct answer: in homes, schools, shops and libraries
Q3.
Which device allows wireless devices to connect to a network?
switch
router
Correct answer: wireless access point
printer
Q4.
What does a router NOT do?
manage data flow
Correct answer: connect devices wirelessly
link networks together
control data movement
Q5.
What device connects multiple devices within a network and manages communication between them?
Correct Answer: switch
Q6.
What networked computer manages, stores and provides data to other devices?
Correct Answer: server