Wired & Wireless Networks (AQA GCSE Computer Science)

Revision Note

Test yourself
  • 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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