Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can explain how different types of network addressing are combined to enable devices to communicate on a network.

Key learning points

  1. IP addresses identify devices on a network.
  2. DHCP assigns IP addresses automatically.
  3. DNS converts domain names into IP addresses, which identify devices on the internet.

Keywords

  • IP address - a unique number assigned to each device on a network, used to identify it and allow it to send or receive data

  • Domain name server (DNS) - a server that works to resolve domain names to corresponding IP addresses

Common misconception

All devices on a network use the same IP address, so there’s no need for private or public IPs or DNS.

Each device needs a unique private IP address on a local network. To access the internet, the router uses a public IP address. DNS translates website names into IP addresses so devices know where to send data.

Teacher tip

Use the school network as a relatable example. Highlight how each device in the classroom (laptop, printer, tablet) has its own private IP but shares one public IP when browsing online.

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), 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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Prior knowledge starter quiz

6 Questions

Q1.
What do wireless networks use to connect devices without cables?

Correct Answer: Radio waves

Q2.
Which of the following is a key benefit of wireless networks?

devices are fixed in place
lower speeds
Correct answer: flexibility and mobility
always secure

Q3.
What is a common risk associated with wireless networks?

Correct answer: interference and security issues
unlimited range
guaranteed speed
no need for passwords

Q4.
Match each keyword to its description.

Correct Answer:wireless local area network,allows devices to connect over a local network using radio waves

allows devices to connect over a local network using radio waves

Correct Answer:Wi-Fi,wireless protocol for local networks

wireless protocol for local networks

Correct Answer:Bluetooth,short-range wireless data exchange

short-range wireless data exchange

Correct Answer:interference,disruption to wireless signals

disruption to wireless signals

Q5.
What can interfere with wireless network signals?

Correct answer: walls and electronic devices
passwords
Fibre optic cables
Usernames

Q6.
Which device is commonly used to provide Wi-Fi in homes?

Correct Answer: router, Wireless router

6 Questions

Q1.
What unique number is assigned to each device on a network to identify it and allow it to send or receive data?

Correct Answer: IP address

Q2.
Arrange these actions for how DHCP assigns an IP address.

1 - device joins the network
2 - device requests an IP address
3 - DHCP server assigns an IP address
4 - device uses the assigned IP address

Q3.
Match each keyword to its description.

Correct Answer:IP address,the unique number that identifies a device

the unique number that identifies a device

Correct Answer:DHCP,assigns unique numbers to devices automatically

assigns unique numbers to devices automatically

Correct Answer:DNS,converts website names into numbers

converts website names into numbers

Correct Answer:network,group of connected devices

group of connected devices

Q4.
Which statement is correct about how devices use IP addresses on a network?

All devices on a network share the same IP address.
Only the router needs an IP address.
Correct answer: Each device has its own private IP; the network uses a public IP.
Devices use their names instead of IP addresses to send data.

Q5.
Put these steps in order for visiting a website.

1 - Type the website name into the browser.
2 - Browser checks if it knows the IP address.
3 - Browser asks DNS for the IP address.
4 - Device connects to the website using the IP address.

Q6.
Match each term to its main use or example.

Correct Answer:DNS,converts www.example.com to numbers

converts www.example.com to numbers

Correct Answer:IP address,the number given to each device

the number given to each device

Correct Answer:DHCP,assigns addresses automatically

assigns addresses automatically

Correct Answer:public IP,lets devices on a home network access the internet

lets devices on a home network access the internet


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