GCSE A451 - Networks

Question 1

State two advantages of connecting the computers to create a local area network. (2)

Answer 1

• To share the printer
• To share the internet connection
• To share files
• To communicate with each other e.g. by email

Question 2

Describe how computers can be connected to each other using a bus topology, stating what hardware will be needed. (6)

Answer 2

• A bus line is drawn
• Terminators (dots) shown at each end of bus line
• At least 3 computers attached to bus line
• Printer attached to bus line
• Router attached to bus line showing internet connection
• Computers labelled with Network adapters on each computer
• Cables needed to connect the different devices

Question 3

Give three functions of a server in a network (3)

Answer 3

• Controls access to the network (using passwords)
• Provides files to the other computers on the network
• Installs software on workstations
• Make the printer accessible to the other computers

Question 4

Explain what is meant by a peer to peer network (2)

Answer 4

All computers have equal status/no server controlling

To share data/files/devices between each other

Question 5

A user types www.ocr.org.uk

Describe how a DNS server is used to access this website and the advantages of using DNS servers. (6)

Answer 5

How DNS servers are used:
-DNS servers have a database of IP addresses
-When you request a website address the DNS server looks up the website address and returns the IP address,
Advantages
-People do not need to remember IP addresses
-As long as you are connected to a DNS server you can have access to all the addresses

Question 6

Describe the security measures and network policies which can be used to safeguard data on a network.

Answer 6

 Physical security measures – computers/servers in
locked rooms, lock down cables for laptops
 Firewalls – allow only authorised access to the network
/ only authorised users/programs to share data out of
the network
 User groups/access levels – different users are given
rights to different data according their
responsibility/need to protect privacy
 Passwords enforced. Should be strong and changed
regularly. Ensures privacy and protects files being
accessed by malicious hackers
 Encryption of data on network
 WiFi access security if they use WiFi
 Get employees to sign an acceptable use policy as part
of their contract to ensure they do not put the data at risk of corruption/abide by data protection
legislation/do not give the data to third parties etc.