GCSE

Computer networks

Curriculum > KS4 > Unit

Computer networks have become an integral part of our daily lives. This unit allows learners to explore how a computer network works from the hardware required to the protocols used for communication. It also allows them to explore simulations of networks using Packet Tracer software. Packet Tracer is free for schools to use and is used in universities to train network engineers. (NOTE: there are two learning graphs)

Unit guide

(DOCX , 143 KB)
Updated: 13 Oct 2022

Learning graph

(PDF , 128 KB)
Updated: 13 Oct 2022

Learning graph

(PDF , 128 KB)
Updated: 13 Oct 2022

Summative assessment

(DOCX , 195 KB)
Updated: 31 Jan 2022

Summative answer

(DOCX , 196 KB)
Updated: 31 Jan 2022

Career video to support the unit

Elizabeth Barr

Head of Cisco Networking Academy

Computer Science can propel students into fulfilling careers of the future. In this video, Elizabeth Barr, Head of Cisco Networking Academy UK & Ireland, explains the topic of networking hardware and how she uses it in her day-to-day role.

Lessons

• Lesson 1 What is a computer network?
• Lesson 2 The client-server model
• Lesson 3 Network hardware
• Lesson 4 Network topologies
• Lesson 5 Wired and wireless transmission media
• Lesson 6 Network performance and routing costs
• Lesson 7 What is the internet?
• Lesson 8 Hosting services
• Lesson 9 Protocols
• Lesson 10 The TCP/IP model
• Lesson 11 The OSI model
• Lesson 12 Protecting a network
• Lesson 13 Summative assessment

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