Networks and Digital Communication | Year 8 Computing (Cambridge) PDF Download

Network Architectures and Topologies

• Network Architectures: Networks are structured in different ways to facilitate communication and data exchange. Common architectures include Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs). LANs are used within a limited area like a school or office, while WANs connect larger geographic areas.
• Network Topologies: Topologies define how devices are interconnected within a network. Examples include star, bus, ring, and mesh topologies. Each topology has advantages and disadvantages in terms of scalability, fault tolerance, and cost.

Advanced Networking Protocols

• TCP/IP Protocol Suite: The Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is fundamental to the internet. It enables reliable data transmission and addressing across networks.
• HTTP and HTTPS: Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and its secure version HTTPS are protocols for transmitting web pages and ensuring secure communication respectively.
• DNS (Domain Name System): DNS translates domain names into IP addresses, allowing users to access websites using human-readable names.

Cybersecurity Principles

• Encryption: Encryption secures data by converting it into a code that only authorized parties can access. Examples include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) for securing data transmissions.
• Firewalls: Firewalls monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules, protecting against unauthorized access.
• Phishing and Social Engineering: Techniques like phishing use deceptive emails or websites to trick users into divulging sensitive information.

Internet Technologies and Cloud Computing

• Cloud Computing: Cloud computing allows users to access computing resources over the internet, providing scalability and flexibility. Examples include Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a Service (SaaS).
• Virtualization: Virtualization enables running multiple virtual machines or operating systems on a single physical machine, optimizing resource utilization.
• Web Technologies: HTML (Hypertext Markup Language), CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), and JavaScript are fundamental technologies for creating web pages and web applications.

Safe and Responsible Online Behavior

• Digital Footprint: Your digital footprint refers to the trail of data you leave online through social media, browsing history, and online interactions. Being mindful of what you share is crucial.
• Cyberbullying Awareness: Cyberbullying involves using digital platforms to harass, intimidate, or threaten others. Understanding its impact and reporting abusive behavior is essential.
• Privacy Settings: Adjusting privacy settings on social media and other platforms helps control who can access your personal information and content.