ZIMSEC O Level · Computer Science · Form 2, Form 3, Form 4
A network connects computers so they can share resources (files, printers, internet) and communicate.
Types of network
- LAN (local area network): a small area such as a school or office.
- WAN (wide area network): a large area; the internet is the biggest WAN.
- PAN: personal devices connected, e.g. by Bluetooth.
Hardware
Network interface card, switch (connects devices in a LAN), router (connects networks and forwards data), modem, wireless access point, cables (twisted pair, fibre optic).
Topologies
Star (devices connected to a central switch – most common, reliable), bus (a single backbone cable), ring, mesh.
The internet and the World Wide Web
- The internet is the global network of networks; the World Wide Web is the collection of web pages accessed over it.
- IP addresses identify devices; DNS converts domain names (www.zimfundi.co.zw) into IP addresses.
- Protocols are rules: HTTP/HTTPS (web pages), SMTP and IMAP (email), FTP (file transfer), TCP/IP.
- Data is split into packets that travel separately and are reassembled.
Exam tip: Don't confuse the internet (hardware network) with the World Wide Web (pages and links).
Check yourself
- Distinguish between a LAN and a WAN.
- State the function of a router.
- What does DNS do?
Show answers
- A LAN covers a small area such as one building; a WAN covers a large geographical area.
- It connects networks and forwards data packets to their destination.
- It translates domain names into IP addresses.
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