Note:

IGCSE ICT Topic Questions Networks and the effects of using them 

The following topics are included:

Router 

• The operation and purpose of a router including: • connecting networks and devices to the internet • storing computer addresses in a router • routing data packets

Common network devices

•  network interface cards (NIC), hubs, bridges, switches

wi-fi and Bluetooth

• The uses of wi-fi and Bluetooth Connecting a device to a network using: • wi-fi • Bluetooth Similarities and differences between Bluetooth and wi-fi

Cloud computing

• The characteristics, uses and issues relating to cloud computing How data is stored, managed and shared using cloud computing Advantages and disadvantages of using cloud storage compared to other methods

Common network environments

• Characteristics, uses and purpose of an extranet, intranet and the internet The differences and similarities between an extranet, intranet and the internet

Network types

• Local Area Network (LAN), Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN), Wide Area Network (WAN) and the differences between these networks

4.2 Network issues and communication

• Security issues regarding data transfer Notes and Guidance Privacy and confidentiality of data transfer
• Passwords Avoiding password interception by using up to date anti-spyware and regularly changing passwords The differences between strong and weak passwords
• Other authentication methods Including: zero login, biometric methods, magnetic stripes, smart cards, physical tokens, electronic tokens
• Anti-malware software Including the use of anti-malware and anti-virus software The operation of removing/quarantining viruses using up to date software Scanning the storage media used to transfer data Scanning the data/software when downloading
• Electronic conferencing Characteristics, uses, advantages and disadvantages of video-conferencing, audio-conferencing, web-conferencing The hardware, software and network connection required to set up each type of electronic conference