Network performance
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can explain the factors affecting network performance.
Key learning points
- Factors such as bandwidth, range, latency and the number of devices connected affect network performance.
- Transmission time depends on file size and data transfer rate.
- Routing manages network traffic efficiently.
Keywords
Bandwidth - the maximum amount of data that can be transferred over a communication channel
Routing - the process where routers select the best path for data to travel across a network, using rules called routing protocols
Common misconception
The only factor that affects network performance is how fast your internet connection is.
Connection speed does affect performance, but it is also influenced by factors like bandwidth, latency, number of users, packet loss, hardware quality and interference on wireless networks.
Teacher tip
Ask students to compare home and school network performance, prompting them to think about what might cause differences.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is the primary purpose of an IP address?
Q2.What does the D in DHCP stand for?
Q3.Which of these best describes the function of DNS?
Q4.Put these steps in order for accessing a website.
Q5.What is the main reason for using domain names instead of IP addresses?
Q6.What happens if a device does not have an IP address on a network?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which factor describes the maximum amount of data that can be sent over a network in a given time?
Q2.What does latency refer to in a network?
Q3.Which device is responsible for selecting the best path for data to travel across a network?
Q4.What happens to network performance when too many devices are connected at once?
Q5.Which of the following is not a factor affecting network performance?
Q6.Match each term to its meaning.
the amount of data that can be sent per second
the process of choosing the best path for data
the delay before data begins to transfer across the network
the distance a wireless signal can travel
To help you plan your 11 computer science lesson on: Network performance, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 11 computer science lesson on: Network performance, 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 4 computer science lessons from the Network fundamentals unit, dive into the full secondary computer science curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.