Wired networks
I can describe how wired networks are connected using different types of transmission media.
Wired networks
I can describe how wired networks are connected using different types of transmission media.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- Wired networks use physical cables to connect devices and transfer data.
- Fibre optic and copper cables have different features that affect speed, distance and reliability.
Keywords
Wired networks - a network where devices are connected using physical cables to transfer data
Copper Ethernet cable - a common network cable made from twisted copper wires that transmits data using electrical signals
Fibre optic cable - a high-speed network cable that sends data as pulses of light
Common misconception
All wired networks use the same type of cable.
Copper Ethernet and fibre optic cables have different speeds, distances and uses. For example, copper Ethernet is fine for short distances, but fibre optic is better for fast, long-distance connections.
To help you plan your year 11 computer science lesson on: Wired networks, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 11 computer science lesson on: Wired networks, 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.
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The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
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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.
Equipment
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Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In a star topology, how are devices connected?
Q2.What is the main feature of a bus topology?
Q3.Which statement describes a mesh topology?
Q4.In a bus topology, what happens if the main cable breaks?
Q5.Which topology is often used in large, reliable networks like the internet?
Q6.Match each network topology to its main disadvantage:
expensive and complex to set up
network fails if the central hub or switch breaks
whole network can stop working if the main cable fails
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.What is a wired network?
Q2.What is a copper Ethernet cable used for?
Q3.Which cable is better for long-distance, high-speed data transfer?
Q4.Put these steps in order for setting up a wired network in an office:
Q5.Match each keyword to its description:
a network using physical cables
a cable made from twisted copper wires, uses electrical signals
a cable that sends data as pulses of light
the physical path used to transfer data