Grade 10 CAT - Networks, Internet, and Online Conduct Study Notes

Comprehensive practice flashcards covering Grade 10 Computer Applications Technology (CAT) study notes, including computer networks, internet concepts, websites, email, and online conduct.

What is a computer network?

Two or more devices connected to communicate and share information or resources.

What is a Personal Area Network (PAN), and what is an example of one?

A network that connects personal devices over a very short distance, such as a phone connected to Bluetooth earbuds.

What is a Local Area Network (LAN)?

A network covering a small area, such as a home, school, or office.

What is a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)?

A network that covers a city or large town.

What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

A network that connects networks across large geographical areas, such as countries.

What is a Global Area Network (GAN)?

A network that connects networks around the world.

How do a WAN and a GAN differ in scope?

A WAN spans large distances, while a GAN has global reach.

What does IP stand for, and what is the function of an IP address?

IP stands for Internet Protocol. An IP address is a numerical address identifying a device's network interface on an IP network, allowing data to be routed to it.

How do IPv4 and IPv6 addresses differ in size?

IPv4 uses $32\text{-bit}$ addresses, whereas IPv6 uses $128\text{-bit}$ addresses.

What does ISP stand for, and what role does it serve?

Internet Service Provider; it provides access to the internet (e.g., Vodacom, MTN, Telkom, Afrihost).

What are the main differences between wired and wireless networks?

Wired networks use cables (e.g., Ethernet), require a physical cable connection, and are usually stable with less interference. Wireless networks use radio signals (e.g., Wi-Fi), allow movement, are convenient for mobile devices, but can suffer interference.

What is the function of a router?

A router connects different networks and directs data between them.

What is the function of a switch in a network?

A switch connects devices within a LAN and forwards data to the correct device.

What is the function of a Wireless Access Point (WAP)?

A WAP allows wireless devices to connect to a network using Wi-Fi.

What is a network client?

A client is a device or program requesting resources or services from a server (e.g., a wired desktop on Ethernet, or a wireless laptop/phone on Wi-Fi).

What physical equipment is categorized as network hardware?

Physical equipment such as routers, switches, network cables, network interface cards (NICs), and WAPs.

What roles do network operating systems, drivers, and firewalls play in network software?

Network operating systems manage resources, drivers enable hardware, and firewalls control traffic.

What is malware, and what is the role of antivirus software?

Malware is malicious software that can harm devices, steal information, or disrupt systems. Antivirus software detects, prevents, and removes malware.

What are five benefits of computer networks?

Resource sharing (shared files, printers, internet), communication (email, messages, video calls), cost savings (shared equipment), central storage (files accessible from a server), and collaboration (working on shared documents).

How does a web browser differ from a search engine?

A web browser is software for accessing and displaying webpages (e.g., Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Safari), whereas a search engine is an online service for finding information (e.g., Google, Bing).

What is the difference between a website and a webpage?

A website is a collection of related webpages under a domain name, while a webpage is one individual page within a website.

What does URL stand for, and what are its parts in 'https://www.example.com/products'?

URL stands for Uniform Resource Locator. In the example: 'https://' is the protocol, 'www' is a common subdomain, 'example.com' is the domain name, and '/products' is the path to a resource.

What is the difference between HTTP and HTTPS?

HTTP stands for Hypertext Transfer Protocol. HTTPS stands for HTTP Secure, which encrypts transmitted data.

What is a hyperlink?

Clickable text, an image, or a button taking you to another page, file, or location.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of e-commerce?

Advantages include 24/7 shopping, price comparisons, and less travel. Disadvantages include fraud risks, delivery costs/delays, and inability to inspect goods physically.

What is the difference between uploading and downloading?

Uploading sends a file from your device to an online platform or server, whereas downloading transfers a file from the internet to your device.

What are the sequential steps for uploading a file?

Sign in -> click Upload/Attach -> choose file -> click Open/Submit -> wait for confirmation.

In email, what are the differences between To, CC, and Bcc?

'To' is for the main recipient(s); 'CC' (Carbon Copy) is for additional recipients whose addresses are visible to all; 'Bcc' (Blind Carbon Copy) hides recipients' addresses from other recipients.

Why should Bcc be used when emailing large groups?

It protects privacy, avoids exposing contact details, and can reduce reply-all clutter.

What is the difference between spam and phishing?

Spam is unwanted or unsolicited electronic messages often sent in bulk (e.g., fake prizes, scam emails). Phishing is fake messages trying to trick you into revealing passwords, banking details, or other sensitive information.

What is netiquette, and why should writing in ALL CAPS be avoided?

Netiquette is polite, responsible, and respectful behaviour online. ALL CAPS should be avoided because it can seem like shouting.