Protocols and IP addresses
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain how devices on a computer network use protocols to communicate.
Key learning points
- Protocols are sets of rules that are followed to allow communication to take place.
- IP adresses are given to devices on a local network.
- IP addresses need to be unique on the same network.
- The IP addresses of both the receiver and sender need be added to every network message.
Keywords
Network - a group of devices connected together, wirelessly or using cables, to enable communication
Protocol - a set of rules used to allow devices to communicate with each other
IP address - a unique number assigned to each device on a network, used to identify it and allow it to send or receive data
Common misconception
Computers only need protocols when sending emails or accessing websites.
Protocols are essential for all sorts of activities, not just email or browsing websites. Protocols are also needed for streaming movies, playing online games, making video calls, etc. Anything being sent across a network needs to follow a protocol.
Teacher tip
Discuss how protocols are used in everyday communication, such as traffic lights, phone calls or even raising your hand in class. This helps students connect the concept to familiar experiences and understand the importance of protocols in various contexts.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the main purpose of a computer network?
Q2.Which of the following is an example of a device that can be shared on a computer network?
Q3.Which of these describes a computer network?
Q4.Which type of cable uses light pulses to transmit data?
Q5.Arrange the following steps in the order they would typically occur when sending an email, starting with the first step.
Q6.Match each network hardware component to its description.
directs data between different networks
provides services to other devices on the network
requests services from a server
physically connects devices in a wired network
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a network protocol?
Q2.Which of the following is an example of a protocol used for email communication?
Q3.What could happen if a website address doesn't follow the correct protocol?
Q4.What is the main reason why computers need protocols when communicating over a network?
Q5.What is an IP address?
Q6.Which of the following is a valid IP address format?
To help you plan your 7 computing lesson on: Protocols and IP addresses, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 computing lesson on: Protocols and IP addresses, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 computing lessons from the Computer networks and data transmission unit, dive into the full secondary computing curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.