Section 4 - Networks

Tasks and Exam Questions

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Answer the following questions

1. Define the term Wi-Fi.
Wi-Fi enables computers and other devices to communicate wirelessly with each other.
2. What are hotspots also known as?
Areas where the Internet can be accessed wirelessly using Wi-Fi are called access points or hotspots.
3. For a home network what is the normal range for a signal distance?
For a home network the distances are usually 50m indoors and 100m outdoors.
4. Give 5 advantages of Wi-Fi.
. As long as you have wireless signal ,you can work in public places for example hotels, coffee shops.
. You dont have to work in the same place, you can work whilst travelling on trains and buses.
. No/fewer wires that could be a hazard.
. Its easier to work in a tidy environment without wires and cables.
. There are no network wires so there are no costs for installation.
1. Give 4 disadvantages of Wi-Fi.
. The risk of hackers reading messages.
. There are certain areas where you cant get a wireless network.
. There is evidence that there may be a danger to health.
. Limited signal range.
1. Define the term Bluetooth.
Bluetooth is a wireless technology used to exchange data over short distances- it makes good use of radio waves.
2. What is the typical range for using Bluetooth?
The range of the Bluetooth depends on the power of the signal and can be from 5m to 100m.
3. List 5 uses of Bluetooth.
.Wireless communication between input and output devices- keyboard > printer.
.Communication between a wireless hands -free headset and a mobile phone whilst driving.
. Transferring appointments/contacts.
. Communication using a games controller.
. Creating a small home wireless network.

Use page 36
of the iGCSE
textbook to
help you

Answer the following in your books

1. What is the Internet?
A huge group of networks joined together. Everyone can access it.
2. What can the Internet be used for?
Sharing data with other devices.
3. What is an Intranet?
A private network that is used inside an organization and makes use of web pages, browsers and other technology.
4. List the main differences between the internet and an intranet
. Intranets are usually behind a firewall which prevents hacking,
. On the Intranet you can block certain sites.
. Internet stands for INTERnational NETwork, whereas intranet stands for INTernal Restricted Access NETwork.
1. Give 3 advantages of using the Internet.
. Large amounts of information that people can access.
. Improved communication systems: text messages, e-mails.
. Can help people with disabilities with their independence
1. Give 3 disadvantages of using the Internet.
. Addiction to gambling.
. Pedophiles look for children using the internet.
. Increased problems due to viruses and hacking.
1. Give 3 advantages of using an Intranet.
. Ideal in schools because they can be used to prevent students accessing unwanted information.
. Only information related to the organization can be accessed.
. The email system is secure and safe.

Use slides 2-4 and

pages 37-38 of the
iGCSE textbook to
help you

LAN refers to a wired network while WLAN is used to

refer to a wireless network.
LAN is commonly used in fixed networks while WLAN is
common in areas where computers are moved quite
often.
LAN is much faster compared to WLAN.
LAN is more secure compared to WLAN.
WLAN is more convenient to users compared to LAN
WLAN is more convenient to users compared to LAN.
Advantage:
Cheaper because of less cabling.
Disadvantage:
Limited transmission distance.