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Knowledge/A Level/H446/01 Computer systems/Networks/Characteristics of networks and the importance…

Characteristics of networks and the importance of protocols and standards

Characteristics of networks and the importance of protocols and standards.

1.3.3 Networks

Networks — Note 1 of 5

Candidates need to understand the definition and purpose of a network. Candidates need to understand the purpose of, and importance of using protocols. They should be able to discuss examples of protocols that may be used in a network/the internet (but will not be asked to recall information about any specific protocol). Candidates should understand the term standard and the purpose and need for standards in a network (or any situation where data is transferred).

What you need to know

A network is two or more computers connected together to share data and resources. Protocols and standards make it possible for devices made by different manufacturers, running different software, to communicate.

What to know

  • Protocols and standards are important because they allow devices and software from different companies to communicate and work together (interoperability).

Key terms

Network

Two or more computers or devices linked together so they can communicate and share resources such as files, printers and Internet access.

  • Benefits of networks: sharing resources and data, central backups and security, communication between users, software can be installed centrally.
  • Drawbacks: cost of hardware and management; malware can spread across the network; failure of a central component can affect all users.
Protocol

A set of rules governing how data is transmitted and received, including the format, addressing, error checking and order of messages.

  • Examples of protocols: TCP, IP, HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, POP3, IMAP. You will not be asked to recall the details of a specific protocol.
Standard

A set of agreed specifications for hardware or software, set so that products from different manufacturers are compatible.

Exam technique

  • Tip:Distinguish the terms: a protocol is a set of rules for communication; a standard is an agreed specification that many products follow (a protocol may become a standard).

Networks

Note 1 of 5

  1. 1Characteristics of networks and the importance of protocols and standards
  2. 2The internet structure: TCP/IP stack, DNS, protocol layering, LANs and WANs, packet and circuit switching
  3. 3Network security and threats, use of firewalls, proxies and encryption
  4. 4Network hardware
  5. 5Client-server and peer to peer
Topic overview
← Previous topicTransaction processing, ACID, record locking and redundancy1.3.2 DatabasesNext note →The internet structure: TCP/IP stack, DNS, protocol layering, LANs and WANs, packet and circuit switching1.3.3 Networks

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