Wired & Wireless Networks (AQA GCSE Computer Science)

Revision Note

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Robert Hampton

Written by: Robert Hampton

Reviewed by: James Woodhouse

  • To connect devices to a network, there are two main options:

    • Wired

    • Wireless

  • There are advantages and disadvantages to each option which are explored below

Wired & Wireless Networks

What is a wired network?

  • A wired network is a network where physical cables are used to join devices together and transmit data

  • Computers can be connected to networks using many different types of wires to transmit data

  • The most common types of cables in a wired network are:

    • Ethernet

    • Fibre optic

    • Copper

What is Ethernet?

ethernet-cables
  • Ethernet is a wired networking standard to carry electrical signals between devices on a local area network (LAN)

  • Ethernet is common in most offices and homes to connect devices such a desktop computers & servers

  • Ethernet uses twisted pair cables to allow duplex communication

What is fibre optic?

fibre-optic-cable
  • Fibre optic is a type of cable that uses light to transmit data on a wide area network (WAN)

  • Fibre transmits data at a much higher speed and has a much higher bandwidth compared to copper cables

  • Fibre optic cable does not suffer from interference which makes them the most secure option to send sensitive data

  • Fibre optic cables can cover a long distance without any degradation, they can span cities and countries

What is copper cable?

copper-cable
  • Copper is a type of cable originally used in telecommunication to transmit voice signals, forming the traditional landline phone network

  • The ability to use copper to deliver network traffic on a wide area network (WAN) made the internet possible

  • Copper cables degrade over time which limits their range compared to fibre optic

  • Copper cable suffers from interference which can disrupt data quality

  • Copper transmits data at a much slower rate, and has a much lower bandwidth compared to fibre optic

Advantages & disadvantages of wired networks

Advantages

Disadvantages

Speed - Fast data transfer

Portability - Can't move easily, location is limited by physical cable

Security - Better physical security 

Cost - Need more cables to add a new device

Range - High (up to 100m), less susceptible to interference

Safety - Cables can be trip hazards, need routing along walls, under floors

What is a wireless network?

  • A wireless network is a network where connections are made using radio waves to transmit data through the air

  • The most common types of wireless connections are:

    • Wi-Fi

    • Bluetooth

What is Wi-Fi?

wifi
  • Wireless fidelity (Wi-Fi) is a common standard for wireless networks

  • Wi-Fi is common in most homes and offices to connect devices such as laptops, tablets & smart phones

  • Using Wi-Fi, devices communicate with a wireless access point (WAP), which can be a standalone device or built into a router or switch 

What is Bluetooth?

bluetooth
  • Bluetooth is another common standard for wireless networks

  • Bluetooth is common in most homes and offices to connect devices such as headphones, controllers, keyboards & mice

  • Bluetooth is used typically for a direct connection between two devices 

Advantages and disadvantages of wireless networks

Advantages

Disadvantages

Portability - Easy to move around, location is only limited by range

Speed - Slower data transfer than wired

Cost - Less expensive to setup and add new devices

Security - Less secure than wired

Compatibility - Most devices are manufactured with a built in wireless adapter

Range - Relies on signal strength to the WAP, signals can be obstructed (up to 90m)

Worked Example

Give three advantages of using a wireless network instead of a wired network [3]

Answer

  • flexibility to expand network/add users/add own devices to the network

  • there is no need to drill holes/install cabling

  • mobility of user/devices (portable)

  • modern devices are more likely to (be designed to) connect wirelessly (built in adapters)

  • guest access (can add temporary connection)

  • no trip hazards

Guidance

  • Cost can be accepted but only If a valid explanation is given

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Robert Hampton

Author: Robert Hampton

Expertise: Computer Science Content Creator

Rob has over 16 years' experience teaching Computer Science and ICT at KS3 & GCSE levels. Rob has demonstrated strong leadership as Head of Department since 2012 and previously supported teacher development as a Specialist Leader of Education, empowering departments to excel in Computer Science. Beyond his tech expertise, Robert embraces the virtual world as an avid gamer, conquering digital battlefields when he's not coding.

James Woodhouse

Author: James Woodhouse

Expertise: Computer Science

James graduated from the University of Sunderland with a degree in ICT and Computing education. He has over 14 years of experience both teaching and leading in Computer Science, specialising in teaching GCSE and A-level. James has held various leadership roles, including Head of Computer Science and coordinator positions for Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. James has a keen interest in networking security and technologies aimed at preventing security breaches.