IT SA1 Theory Revision 2020-2025

(Ch 12, 13, 14, 17, 20.6, 20.7, 20.8, 20.12, 20.12, 20.14)

1 Cellular networks use 3G, 4G and 5G systems for mobile communications so that users can access internet services. 

(a) Explain how 4G cellular networks provide a better service than 3G networks for smartphone users accessing internet services. [4]

Increased rate of data transfer/higher bandwidth 

– provides faster download/more buffering capacity/less waiting for data to download 

– Web pages/content loads faster

– due to use of higher range of frequencies 

(b) Describe two features of 5G mobile communication systems that make them suitable for connecting smart devices together into large networks. [2]

Very large capacity for connection of devices/up to a million devices per km2 

• Very high bandwidth for transferring data between multiple devices 

2 Contrast the use of Wi-fi and cabled Ethernet connections for transmitting data between computing devices on LANs. [6]

📶 Wi-Fi vs Cabled Ethernet [6]

1. Wi-Fi has lower data transfer speeds → than cabled/wired Ethernet

2. Wi-Fi has higher latency → than cabled/wired Ethernet

3. Wi-Fi requires negotiation/recognition → connection between devices → whereas cabled Ethernet does not

4. Wi-Fi connections require encryption → for security → whereas cabled Ethernet does not normally require encryption

5. Wi-Fi can suffer signal interference → other devices/environment → whereas cabled Ethernet does not

   1. Devices using Wi-Fi can be mobile/portable → easily connected/disconnected → whereas Ethernet requires physical connection

3 Compare the use of static and dynamic routing when sending data packets through IP networks. You must include similarities and differences. [6]

🔀 Static vs Dynamic Routing [6]

1. Both are used → routers/routing devices → determine next node/router/device → send data packet

2. Both use routing/forwarding tables → choose next hop/preferred route

🔵 Differences

3. Static tables created → network administrators, whereas dynamic tables → automatically by algorithms

4. Static routing does not automatically take into account → network conditions/changes, whereas dynamic → real-time network information

5. Static routes are fixed, whereas dynamic routing → packets take different routes → depending on network conditions

   1. Static tables not automatically updated → network conditions/devices change, whereas dynamic tables → automatically updated/adjusted

6 Describe how news organisations use social media. [6]

They use social media to post news reports for public viewing at any time, which can be used to reach local audiences more quickly. Social media is accessed more than print news, as it is the only source of news for so many which gives a wider influence among different demographics, and the reports can be spread more quickly to influence more people with opinions.

8 JavaScript code can be written to perform different actions depending on different conditions. (a) Describe the use of the switch operator, such as switch(name), in JavaScript code to select different actions. [4]

Variable is declared to store a specified condition 

• Switch () used to gather/hold/collect data to be tested against the variable

Variable with the condition listed for testing (against case)

 • Use of break to end/jump out of switch () when variable matches case/case matches variable 

(b) Describe the use of logical operators in conditional statements in JavaScript code. [6]

💻 Logical Operators in JavaScript [6]

1. Used in if/switch statements → test if conditions are true

2. Compare/determine logic → between two or more variables/values

3. Represented by symbols → rather than words → JavaScript

4. AND (&&) → determines if both/all conditions are true → true only when all conditions true

5. OR (||) → determines if one or the other condition is true → true if at least one condition true

   1. NOT (!) → reverses Boolean value → true → false / false → true

1 JavaScript can be used in a web-based form to test whether a number entered by a user matches a certain condition and to select and output an appropriate message. 

(a) Explain how if...else statements are used to do this. [4]

💻 JavaScript if...else Statements [4]

1. If...else → allows different actions → condition/number examined/evaluated

2. If condition TRUE → action is taken

3. If condition FALSE → another/different action is taken → produces Boolean result

   1. Number → stored in a variable/declared variable

(b)The ternary operator could be used instead of if...else. Explain why the ternary operator could be used to do this. [3]

• Code is less complex → easier to follow/understand/write → faster/simpler/less repetitive

• Code is easier to debug/error check → less chance of error

  • Multiple operations → code that is easier to follow/understand

2 IP networks can be connected by switches and routers so that data can be exchanged between devices. Compare the operations of switches and routers in networks. You must include similarities and differences. [8]

✅ Similarities

1. Both are networking devices → used in LANs

2. Both can handle/direct → packets of data

3. Both can connect → multiple devices → multiple data ports

4. Both can send data → to specific devices

❌ Differences

5. Routers → used in WANs + LANs, whereas switches → generally LANs only

6. Routers connect → 2+ networks, whereas Layer 2 switches connect → nodes within same network

7. Routers work → Network Layer / Layer 3, whereas switches → Data Link Layer / Layer 2 → OSI model

   1. Routers use IP addresses → direct data, whereas switches → MAC addresses

3 When data is transmitted across networks it needs to be protected from interception and eavesdropping. 

(a) Explain how each of these network security protocols operates. 

(i) Secure Shell (SSH) [2]

Encryption of data (is (end-to-end) between application/software/apps)  

Creates a (secure) link  

Uses client server model

3 When data is transmitted across networks it needs to be protected from interception and eavesdropping. 

(a) Explain how each of these network security protocols operates. 

(ii) Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) [2]

 All data (that is exchanged) during session is encrypted using the agreed keys  

Different sets of keys are used (for data encryption) for different sessions 

3 When data is transmitted across networks it needs to be protected from interception and eavesdropping. 

(a) Explain how each of these network security protocols operates. 

(b) Explain why the use of Telnet for remote login may put data at risk. [2]

Data/login details is/are not encrypted by default/automatically 

Connections are not authenticated 

4 Bluetooth and Wi-fi are wireless technologies used to exchange data between devices. 

(a) Contrast Bluetooth with Wi-fi as methods of wireless communication. [4]

📡 Bluetooth vs Wi-Fi [4]

1. Bluetooth is less secure → than Wi-Fi

2. Bluetooth requires less power → than Wi-Fi → to exchange data

3. Bluetooth has lower bandwidth/data transfer rates → than Wi-Fi

   1. Bluetooth designed for use between 2/up to 8 devices → whereas Wi-Fi allows multiple/many devices connected

(b) Describe how a Bluetooth connection is established between two devices. [5]

• Turning on/opening Bluetooth → on both devices

• Devices must be within range → detect/find each other

• One device set to search → available devices → other device found + selected

• Passcode/user response may be required → passcode checked/confirmed → other device

  • Devices then paired → allowing them to communicate with each other

5 Discuss the impact of the use of social media on the health of individuals. [8]

Some positive effects of social media are that it improves a sense of belonging as it allows one to be well connected with people across distances, especially for the elderly so they can keep contact with their families, and it can also empower people to make social changes through discussion with others. Social media also reduces some level of stress as it provides entertainment; however, it can also become addictive and lead to isolationism. Social media can also increase the chances of depression when comparing one’s lifestyle with that of others, and it can trigger less satisfaction with one’s own life. In extreme cases, social media can also lead to cyberbullying by individuals on others.

6 The OSI and the TCP/IP reference models are used to describe communications in networks. (a) Describe three similarities between these models. [3]

Use a logical framework for defining/implementing network standards  

Use a layered structure/architecture to describe/standardise the functions of protocols  

Each layer only defines/describes a specific/set of function/only that function

(b) Describe three differences between these models. [3]

OSI model has seven layers whereas TCP/IP model has four/five layers/more layers in OSI model than in TCP/IP model 

OSI has separate physical and data link layers whereas TCP/IP originally  combined these into one layer/Link layer 

OSI Transport layer provides for a guarantee of the delivery of packets whereas TCP/IP Transport layer does not. 

7 A government is concerned that the use of digital currencies may affect its economy. Analyse the risks to an economy of an increase in the use of digital currencies. [6]

The use of digital currencies pose risks to monetary stability as the value of digital currency in an economy increases, which can lead to inflation of traditional currency. There would also be an increase in crime, as there is a risk of system-wide fraud if a group gained control of computing resources involved in electronic payments. Additionally, transactions are anonymous and not tracked, which means there is high risk of illegal payments and money laundering.

10 Scientific research includes reading documents published in different languages by scientists all over the world. Discuss the impact of computer-assisted translation on scientific research. [8]

Computer assisted translation can increase the speed of translation so that the research is available faster for reference by the scientist. The translation would also be more consistent compared to if it were done by human scientists because the terms would have already been translated in previous documents, so the information would be more reliable. However, contextual errors can occur when translating new research material, so it may not be fully understood and can create errors in new research; this is due to the fact that all meanings of the terms may not be translated correctly, leading to a potential loss of usefulness in the documents. Security can also be compromised when documents are compared against databases, which can lead to a loss of confidentiality

1 Stored value cards can be used for making transactions such as paying for travel on public transport or for buying food and drink in cafes. 

(a) Explain the benefits of stored value cards. [4]

No user authentication is required because the money is already stored on the card, and the merchant would receive the money immediately since the value is transferred directly from the card to the account, and it would be the same as exchanging physical currency.

(b) Describe two drawbacks of stored value cards. [2]

The user would lose the monetary value of the card if it is damaged, lost, or stolen and if it is not used before the expiration date. Also, the monetary value on the cards are usually low to avoid money laundering.

4 Cellular networks are used to provide mobile communications for users. 

(a) Describe the structure of a cellular network. [3]

A cellular network consists of (1) base stations in each cell, which provide a wireless connection to end users. (2) A core/central switched network handles voice calls and text messages. (3) A packet-switched network handles mobile data and internet traffic. 

(b) Explain how cellular networks allow large numbers of mobile (cell) phones to connect without interference from other mobile (cell) phones. [4]

📱 Cellular Networks — Avoiding Interference [4]

1. Frequency/time/code division multiplexing → share frequencies between connections

2. Adjacent cells use different frequencies → from neighbouring cells → prevent interference

3. Same frequencies re-used → by distant cells → increase capacity → limited frequencies

   1. Base-station antennas directional → reduce interference → other towers + signal reflections

5 Users may connect their smartphones to a local area network (LAN). 

(a) Describe two reasons why a wireless connection to a local area network (LAN) may not be as secure as a wired connection. [2]

Connection may not be encrypted/not require a password/network key/passphrase • Eavesdroppers/interceptions are more difficult to prevent/discover/no physical/visible evidence of (unauthorised) connections/easier to intercept (than wired connections) 

(b) Explain how a secure Wi-fi connection is established and maintained between a smartphone and a local area network (LAN). [6]

📶 Secure Wi-Fi Connection — Smartphone → LAN [6]

1. User selects Wi-Fi connection/WAP → from list of available connections

2. WAP connected → LAN/infrastructure network → smartphone can access LAN

3. WAP sends beacon frames → at intervals → announces presence + provides SSID/network parameters

4. Smartphone sends authentication frames → to WAP → requesting connection → WAP accepts/denies

5. User/device enters authentication credentials → establishes security methods + encryption → data exchange

   1. WPA/WPA2 encryption → ensures data between smartphone + WAP → secure + encrypted

6 Loops in JavaScript repeatedly execute blocks of code. 

(a) Describe how a for loop works in JavaScript code [4]

• Loops through a block of code → a number of times → depending on testing a condition/counting a condition set in code

• Requires at least/usually three expressions/statements → in the syntax

• Declared variable/expression → evaluated before each iteration → start expression may be omitted

  • Expression evaluated at end → each iteration → increments value of declared variable

(b) Contrast the use of while and do while loops in JavaScript code. [2]

While loop tests condition at the beginning of the loop  

− whereas do while tests the condition at the end of the loop

 • While loop only executes the code block if condition is true 

− whereas do while executes the code block even if condition is false/test fails 

7 In JavaScript, an object is defined as a collection of properties which can be amended or deleted. 

(a) Describe how an object may be given a new property [4]

 (A new property may be added) by assigning it/declaring a value. 

(b) Describe how the properties of an object in JavaScript can be displayed using a loop. [4]

Use of the for…in loop (in JS) 

• Define a variable (var/const) for storing the (iterated) properties 

• Specify the object to examined/iterated 

• Enclose the code to be interrogated within brackets/{ }

• Include code to count iterations of loop/code loops through/iterates through variable array of (stored) properties 

9 Describe the benefits to businesses of employees using instant messaging to communicate with other employees for business purposes. [6]

Instant messaging is simple, and no expertise is required to set up and use it by all and any employees. It is accessible at any time, anywhere, and it's also accessible from almost all computing devices. Instant messaging provides real timed communications between employees, which eliminates potential delays in communications, and it may also be cheaper than using telephone systems for long conversations, which could save money. Also, the use of end-to-end encryption can make communications secure.

10 A small company is considering installing a mail server to manage email for its five employees. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages to the company of using its own mail server. [6]

✅ Advantages

1. Each employee → own customised business email address/account → solely for company business

2. Additional departmental/service email accounts → sales@ / support@ → no extra cost

3. Company emails → archived/stored → later reference + legal requirements

❌ Disadvantages

4. Mail servers require → technical expertise + maintenance → may cost too much for small company

   1. 
      

1 Near Field Communication (NFC) is a communication method. Describe how NFC can be used by mobile devices. [6]

NFC can be used to bootstrap other wireless connections, and it is used in tags to automatically command smartphones to carry out tasks, in documentation like passports to verify identity quickly, and also used in access and login systems. NFC can also be used in social networking to share contacts and images, such as in AirDrop, and it can also be used in contactless payment systems in mobile devices.

2 Explain why break statements, functions and comments are used in JavaScript code. 

(a) Break statements [2]

Used to exit/break out of a switch/loop 

Any code outside/after a switch/loop is then executed. 

2 Explain why break statements, functions and comments are used in JavaScript code. 

(b) Functions [2]

Declared/initiated by the function statement 

• Used to save a section of code for later/repeated use 

2 Explain why break statements, functions and comments are used in JavaScript code. 

(c) Comments [2]

 Used to explain (JavaScript) code 

allows (future) programmers to follow/debug/understand code 

8 Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of the use of cryptocurrencies by individuals. [8]

Cryptocurrency is a digital currency where transactions are verified and recorded by a decentralised system using cryptography. Crypto cannot be counterfeited so it is not devalued by forgers, the transactions made in crypto cannot be reversed without consent, and transactions can also be anonymous so finances cannot be tracked or traced. However, crypto is not backed by a government, in fact some governments have banned the use of crypto, so it may not be legal in some countries and may be subject to regulatory intervention. Additionally, cryptocurrency is a significant contributor to climate change due to power consumption.

11 Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using virtual servers for hosting websites. [8]

✅ Benefits

1. Physical hardware requirements are reduced → hardware shared by many virtual servers → reducing costs, physical space + maintenance

2. Virtual servers can be set up, duplicated + deployed quickly → physical hardware already available/configured

3. Downtime for updates/upgrades can be reduced → new version set up + switched into use → without interfering with old version

❌ Drawbacks

4. Data + web accounts → greater security risk → due to sharing hardware

5. Failure of physical hardware → can affect all virtual servers → hosted websites go offline

6. Larger RAM requirements → each virtual server requires separate memory allocation

7. High bandwidth connections → required to service all virtual servers → optimal performance

   1. High power computing requirements → needed to run all virtual servers → peak performance → otherwise user experience not optimal

1 Devices on a network can be connected by Wi-Fi. Describe how a Wi-Fi connection is used to transfer data between devices. [6]

📶 Wi-Fi Data Transfer [6]

1. Using a wireless connection → no cables

2. Uses radio/electromagnetic waves → 2.4 GHz / 5 GHz bands → carry data

3. Frequencies are divided into channels → changed automatically → avoid interference/congestion

4. Network key/passphrase/password is used → access control + authentication → establishing connection

5. Data is wrapped/encapsulated into frames → similar to Ethernet frames

   1. Frames contain source + destination MAC addresses → data sent to correct device

7 Explain how technology-enhanced learning can have an impact on the autonomy of learners. [6]

The different methods allow different levels of learner control in the speed and route through courses. MOOCs also allow some control over time and choice of routes through the course, but it may also allow learners to skip through content so progress can be impaired. Technology allowed learning facilities to be available 24/7, and isolation can lead to a lack of motivation and learning progress, even if isolation from other learners can allow the student more control over learning.

1 JavaScript uses for loops to run through a block of code.

(a) In JavaScript, the for loop has the following syntax:

 for (Statement_1; Statement_2; Statement_3){

 // block of code to be executed is written here

 }

 Describe the purpose of each of the three statements [3]:

 Statement_1

Initialises the counter with a starting value 

1 JavaScript uses for loops to run through a block of code.

(a) In JavaScript, the for loop has the following syntax:

 for (Statement_1; Statement_2; Statement_3){

 // block of code to be executed is written here

 }

 Describe the purpose of each of the three statements [3]:

Statement_2 

Is the test statement / tests whether condition is true or not 

1 JavaScript uses for loops to run through a block of code.

(a) In JavaScript, the for loop has the following syntax:

 for (Statement_1; Statement_2; Statement_3){

 // block of code to be executed is written here

 }

 Describe the purpose of each of the three statements [3]:

Statement_3

Counter/value in loop is incremented/decremented 

(b) Compare the use of a for loop with a for in loop. [3]

Both used to execute/loop through a block of code repeatedly/number of times/over and over/iterate 

stops after a set/pre-determined number of times 

 For loop used for going through a (sequential) array whereas for in loop is used with objects 

5 Discuss the impact of the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in health care. [8]

Artificial intelligence is the ability of a computer to perform activities that are normally thought to require human intelligence. AI is used in data mining to discover patterns for research into treatments to develop new medicines, and it's also used in health assistance technology to improve the quality of life for senior citizens, and can be used to target treatment more precisely. However, AI is very costly which means there would be less money available for other areas of healthcare, and it also requires expensive IT support which can reduce funds for medical personnel. AI needs to learn by experience, which can affect patient recovery, and human experts are still needed to avoid misdiagnosis.

6 Using tunneling protocols in networking can affect the security of the data. 

(a) Explain how tunneling protocols can increase data security. [4]

🔐 Tunneling Protocols — Increase Data Security [4]

1. Data sent between networks across public networks → help keep data private

2. Encapsulate data → repackaging/wrapping TCP/IP packets → different format → hides actual type/contents

3. Tunneling can encrypt payload → other protocols → destination addresses, services + contents hidden from interceptors

   1. TLS/IPSec/HTTPS → encrypt data → provide security during transmission

(b) Explain how tunneling protocols can decrease data security. [2]

Can be used to bypass / travel through firewall by hiding / encapsulating protocols that would normally be blocked (1st) 

– when unwrapped the hidden protocols put data behind the firewall at risk (1) 

7 The data mining process consists of several phases. Describe the tasks that occur in each of the following phases in the data mining process. 

(a) data preparation [4]

The selection of the data has to be mined with reference to its relevance to the client’s requirements. THe data is cleaned by removing irrelevant parts of the data, and then creation occurs of new records from existing records. Finally the data is merged with records with common features.

(b) evaluation [4]

It checks the data mining model against the criteria laid out in the first one, and it returns the model if the criteria is not met. It checks against reports to ensure all errors have been corrected, and finally produces reports detailing the evaluation process for the developers.

2 Peer-to-peer networks are used for sharing files. 

(a) Describe the architecture of peer-to-peer networks. [2]

The client and server functions occur at the same time / simultaneously

 • Peers connect directly to other peers / no central control / server / decentralised.

(b) Describe the benefits and drawbacks of peer-to-peer networks. [6]

✅ Benefits

1. Reduced costs → no need for expensive server hardware

2. No need for central server → each device can share resources with other devices

3. Specialised technical/maintenance staff not needed → network easier to manage

❌ Drawbacks

4. Files/resources not centrally organised → finding required files may be difficult/time-consuming

5. No central backup of files → increased risk of losing data

   1. Increased risk → viruses/malware spreading between devices

3 Many network servers are virtual servers or are run from server farms. 

(a) Describe what is meant by a virtual server. [2]

Software instances / versions of server (1st) 

• run in RAM (1)

3 Many network servers are virtual servers or are run from server farms. 

(b) Describe a server farm. [2]

Collection of individual servers 

• function / work as one server 

3 Many network servers are virtual servers or are run from server farms. 

(c) Describe one benefit to a company of using virtual servers. [1]

Reduced use / costs of power to run servers 

3 Many network servers are virtual servers or are run from server farms. 

(d) Describe one drawback to a company of using virtual servers. [1]

 • If host server fails then all the virtual servers fail 

5 The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model for communications has seven layers that define the protocols to be used when devices communicate with each other. Describe the function of the presentation layer of the OSI model. [3]

💻 Presentation Layer — OSI Model [3]

1. Converts data from applications → correct format → transmission to next layer

2. Needed because different applications → use different file formats/syntax

   1. Can apply encryption → data → secure during transmission

7 Discuss the impact of technology enhanced learning on student achievement. [8]

An increase in achievement gives lifetime skills to students, and technology allows students to take part in classes they would otherwise not be able to. Technology would also lead to an increase of independent learning by students so they would be more likely to succeed, and it would also increase technology literacy during lessons and at school. However, Poor quality lessons and untrained teachers can decrease achievement in classes over time, so students would have reduced motivation and would be more likely to drop out.

8 Central bank digital base money is a type of digital currency issued by banks. Describe the benefits and drawbacks of central bank digital base money. [6]

It is used for online and offline transactions and can also be used to facilitate international payments. It provides a digital alternative to cash. However, this allows increased surveillance of financial transactions, can raise privacy and security concerns, and CBDCS are also very costly and complex to implement.

9 The Internet of Things (IoT) connects devices together in a network. 

(a) Describe how the IoT can be used in the homes of individuals. [4]

Use of inter-connected sensors / devices / appliances to gather data / personalise / customise home environment 

• Creating smart homes / automated home systems e.g. heating / cooling / lighting

 • Automatic re-ordering of goods / provisions / switching energy providers 

• Remote control of devices / home systems

(b) Describe the drawbacks of using the IoT in homes. [4]

🏠 IoT in Homes — Drawbacks [4]

1. IoT devices are not always compatible → devices may not work together

2. Security + privacy issues → connected devices may be unprotected

3. Voice assistants may continuously record/monitor → conversations → collect private information

4. IoT devices can increase energy/power use → more expensive to run + environmentally unfriendly

1 3D printing is used to create objects. 

(a) Describe the process of 3D printing an object. [4]

A CAD software is used to create a model, and the model is then sent to the printer. The printer is then prepared with raw materials, which is heated to liquefy. The layers are added through the nozzles in succession to build the object from bottom up, and it is finally cooled down.

(b) Describe how 3D printing is used to improve healthcare. [4]

It can be used to create external prosthesis that exactly match the patient’s requirements. It can also be used to create internal implants, so patients do not have to wait for real organs from donors.

2 Two characteristics of a network are its topology and its architecture. 

(a) Describe what is meant by network topology. [3]

 The physical locations / arrangements of nodes / devices 

The flow of data (through the network) (1st) 

regardless of the physical connections / follows the logical connections 

2 Two characteristics of a network are its topology and its architecture. 

(b) Describe what is meant by network architecture. [3]

The design / structure (of the network) 

• The types of physical components (on the network) 

• How the components function / are configured to work together 

3 The role of a wireless access point (WAP) is to enable wireless devices to make a secure connection to a wired network. Describe how a WAP carries out this role. [6]

📡 WAP — Secure Connection to Wired Network [6]

1. Uses radio waves/signals → communicate with wireless devices

2. Transmits beacon packets → inform wireless devices of its presence

3. Wireless devices scan → for available WAPs

4. WAP asks for passphrase/code/password → when device requests a connection

5. WAP rejects connection → incorrect passphrase → allows connection if correct

   1. WAP uses encryption → keep data secure during transmission

5 Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of mobile networks. [8]

📱 Mobile Networks — Benefits & Drawbacks [8] ✅ Benefits

1. Allow use of mobile devices → in almost any location

2. Provide large area coverage → users stay connected over long distances

3. Users not restricted → wired/fixed locations → can move around while connected

4. Allow users to access internet + entertainment services → while mobile → e.g. social media

❌ Drawbacks

5. Connectivity problems/lack of coverage → prevent users from communicating

6. Security of data → higher risk → compared with fixed/cabled connections

7. Mobile devices → higher risk of theft/robbery → away from home/work

   1. Cost of using mobile network → higher than fixed connection → may restrict its use

9 JavaScript statements can contain comparison operators such as > and <. 

(a) Describe the purpose of comparison operators. [2]

used in logical operations 

to determine equality / inequality (1st) between variables / values (1) 

(b) Explain the differences in function between the === and !== comparison operators. [4]

 === returns TRUE if (both) the value and the type are equal 

/ the same returns FALSE if either is unequal / not the same 

• !== returns TRUE if the value is not equal or the type is not equal returns FALSE if either is equal / the same 

(a) Describe what is meant by a distributed ledger. [2]

It is a decentralised, shared database that is copied to all users.

(b) Describe two items of data that would be stored in a cryptocurrency’s distributed ledger. [2]

A record of every transaction and a timestamp for every transaction.

11 Discuss the use of data mining by banking organisations. [8]

 

Data mining is used in marketing to identify customers who may be interested in other banking products, increasing sales. It also analyses customer spending and account activity to determine preferences and behaviour. Data mining also detects fraud by identifying unusual credit card, debit card or account transactions, and it supports risk analysis by finding trends that may indicate financial risks. It can also be used for credit scoring by analysing a customer's financial history and reliability. Data mining also helps manage customer portfolios by identifying suitable financial products. Additionally it is used in investment banking to predict trends in stock and share values and make investment decisions, and it can help allocate capital and resources more effectively to maximise profits. However, there are privacy and security concerns because personal financial data is analysed, and they can also be expensive to implement and maintain.

1) Autonomous transport systems are emerging technologies. 

(a) Describe what is meant by an autonomous transport system. [2]

It is an unmanned vehicle that uses AI.

(b) Describe how autonomous transport systems could be used in healthcare. [4]

There can be service robots that can carry and deliver food and medical equipment to patients, and they can also transport patients and assist survivors of disasters in emergencies.

7 Virtual currency can be used instead of physical bank notes and coins to buy goods and services. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the use of virtual currency [8]

Virtual currency represents an amount of money that is stored only in digital form. Virtual currency is not regulated so the value can change hands without oversight, with no records available to regulators. The transactions are also much faster than with physical currency. However, the use is restricted to members of specific communities, and it has no interchangeability with real currency. The currency is also not regulated so the value depends on trust between the users, and the value can also fluctuate widely since it is not regulated so they can either lose or gain money.

9 The network interface card (NIC) in a device is automatically assigned an internet protocol (IP)

address when the device connects to a network.

(a) Describe how the IP address is automatically assigned to the NIC [3]

Use of DHCP server (in the network) 

• NIC looks for a DHCP server 

• Using UDP (to communicate) 

• Sends a (dhcpdiscover) request on network (as it connects) 

(b) Describe how the IP address is used when exchanging data with other devices. [4]

🌐 IP Address — Exchanging Data [4]

1. Uniquely identifies → a device/NIC on a network

2. Has two parts → network + specific device

3. Source + destination IP addresses → stored in packet header → data exchanged

   1. Routers use IP addresses → send packets between devices → different networks

11 Evaluate the use of email by governments. [8]

Email allows governments to communicate quickly and cheaply with large numbers of citizens through mass mailings. It can be used to distribute government news, provide updates on laws and regulations, and send information to specific individuals or organisations. Email also enables citizens to give feedback and discuss current issues with government departments. However, not all citizens have email accounts or internet access, meaning some people may not receive important information. Governments may also use email to monitor illegal activities, which can raise privacy concerns, and email can be used to spread false, distorted or biased information that promotes government views.