1.3.2 Wired and wireless networks, protocols and layers

Ethernet

Wired connection using cables for fast and reliable data transfer

Wi-Fi

Wireless connection using radio waves to connect devices to a network

Bluetooth

Wireless connection for short-range communication between devices

Advantages of Wired Connections

Faster speeds and more reliable connection

Disadvantages of Wired Connections

Limited movement and cables can be messy

Advantages of Wireless Connections

Portable and easy to connect many devices

Disadvantages of Wireless Connections

Slower speeds and more interference

When to Use Wired Connections

Gaming PCs and office computers needing stable connections

When to Use Wireless Connections

Phones and laptops needing mobility

Encryption

Scrambling data so only authorised users can read it

Why Encryption is Important

Protects sensitive data and prevents hacking

IP Address

Unique number identifying a device on a network

IPv4

32-bit IP address format using four numbers separated by dots

IPv6

128-bit IP address format designed for more available addresses

MAC Address

Unique address built into a network device

Format of a MAC Address

Six pairs of hexadecimal numbers separated by colons

Standard

Agreed set of rules allowing devices and software to work together

Why Standards Are Important

Compatibility between manufacturers and reliable communication

Protocol

Set of rules for transferring data across a network

TCP/IP

Main protocol suite used for communication over the Internet

Purpose of TCP/IP

Splits data into packets and reassembles them correctly

HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol)

Protocol used to transfer web pages

Key Feature of HTTP

Not secure because data is not encrypted

HTTPS (HyperText Transfer Protocol Secure)

Secure version of HTTP using encryption

Key Feature of HTTPS

Encrypts data and protects sensitive information

FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

Protocol used to transfer files between computers

Key Features of FTP

Uploads/downloads files and commonly used by websites

POP (Post Office Protocol)

Email protocol that downloads emails to one device

Key Features of POP

Emails can be accessed offline and may delete from server

IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol)

Email protocol that stores emails on a server

Key Features of IMAP

Syncs across devices and requires Internet access

SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol)

Protocol used to send emails between servers

Key Features of SMTP

Sends outgoing mail and works with POP or IMAP

Layers

Different stages in a network system with specific jobs

Benefits of Layers

Easier troubleshooting and updates can be made without changing everything

4-Layer TCP/IP Model

Example model showing how network communication is organised into layers