Networks (OCR A Level Computer Science)
Revision Note
Written by: Neil Southin
Reviewed by: James Woodhouse
Networks
What is a Network?
A network is a set of interconnected devices (such as computers, printers, and servers) designed to share resources, exchange data and communicate with each other
The main purposes of a network are to enable data sharing, resource sharing, communication, and collaboration
Purpose & importance of protocols
Network protocols define the rules and formats that devices must follow to communicate with each other over the network
They ensure successful and secure data transmission, and help maintain order and efficiency in communications
Examples of protocols include HTTP, FTP, TCP/IP, and SMTP, among others
Understanding the term "standard"
A standard in a network or any data transfer situation refers to a set of guidelines or frameworks that govern how a task should be performed or how a product should function
Standards ensure compatibility, interoperability, and consistency across different devices and software
Purpose & need for standards in a network
Standards enable different network devices, regardless of their manufacturer or model, to work together seamlessly
They ensure that data can be correctly interpreted and processed by the receiving device, regardless of where or how it was sent
Standards support network expansion and the integration of new technologies without disrupting existing operations
They foster innovation and competition by providing a common ground for all manufacturers and developers
Common Internet Protocols
|
|
|---|---|
HTTP | Primary protocol for transferring web content (text, images, video) |
HTTPS | A version of HTTP, but with encryption for security |
SMTP | The standard for sending email messages between servers |
FTP | Used for transferring files from one host to another over a network |
ARP | Translates IP addresses into MAC (Media Access Control) addresses |
TCP | Part of the main suite of protocols used in the Internet Protocol Suite |
UDP | A simpler message-based connectionless protocol |
IP | Functions mainly by addressing and routing packets of data from the source to the target device |
Worked Example
The internet can be considered an example of a WAN.
The internet uses a set of protocols referred to as the TCP/IP stack. The TCP/IP stack consists of four different layers, each with its own set of protocols.
Explain why protocols are important on a network
2 marks
How to answer this question:
You need to know what network protocols are and why they are important for network communication:
They allow us to communicate over a network by ensuring that all communicating parties use the same rules and standards
Whatever data or signals are sent need to be understood commonly by both the sender and the receiver
Answer:
Example answer that would get full marks:
Protocols are rules that must be followed to allow communication over a network. They ensure that all devices follow the same rules and standards so that they interpret data and signals in the same way.
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