GCSE > Computer Science > OCR > GCSE Computer Science > COMPUTER SYSTEMS: Networks > Network hardware (LANs)
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COMPUTER SYSTEMS: Encoding and compression

COMPUTER SYSTEMS: Network topologies

COMPUTER SYSTEMS: Wired and wireless networks, protocols, and layers

COMPUTER SYSTEMS: Threats to computer systems and networks

COMPUTER SYSTEMS: Operating systems and utility software

ALGORITHMS AND PROGRAMMING: Types of data

ALGORITHMS AND PROGRAMMING: Producing robust programs

ALGORITHMS AND PROGRAMMING: Designing, creating, and refining algorithms

ALGORITHMS AND PROGRAMMING: Artificial Intelligence (AI)

  • Network Interface Controller (NIC): 
    • Provides the bridge between a device and a network. 
    • Can be wired (RJ45 Ethernet port) or wireless (radio transmitter/receiver for WiFi). 
    • Nowadays this is usually integrated into the motherboard.
  • Switch: 
    • Connects multiple devices to form a wired network.
    • Learns MAC addresses to forward data securely only to intended devices.
    • Supports star topology.
    • Can connect with other switches to increase devices on network. 
  • Router:
    • Connects different networks (e.g. home LAN to the Internet).
    • Uses IP addresses to determine where to send data packets.
    • Key for packet switching on the Internet.
    • Often combined with switch and wireless access point in home broadband routers.
  • Wireless Access Point (WAP): 
    • Connects wireless devices to a wired network via a switch.
    • Broadcasts the WiFi network’s SSID (network name).
    • Uses encryption (WPA2-PSK) and authentication to prevent unauthorised access.

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