Routers and other network devices Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology revision
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In plain words
A network is two or more computers connected so that they can share data and equipment. The connecting is done by a small family of devices, and the exam expects you to know which does what.
5 things to know
- A network interface card (NIC) lets a device connect to a network. Each one has its own unique address.
- A hub connects devices in a network. It sends any data it receives to every device connected to it, which is slow and not secure.
- A switch also connects devices in a network, but it sends data only to the device it is meant for. That is faster and more secure than a hub.
- A bridge connects two local area networks so that they work as a single network.
- A router connects networks together, for example a home network to the internet. It stores the addresses of computers, and it routes data packets: it reads each packet's destination address and sends it on by the best route.
Worked example
An office replaces its hub with a switch. Explain why the network becomes faster and more secure.
- A hub sends every piece of data to every device, so the network is full of traffic that most devices do not need.
- A switch sends data only to the device it is addressed to, so there is less traffic and the network is faster.
- Other devices never receive the data, so it is harder for someone to read data that is not meant for them.
Tips and tricks
- Hub: sends to all. Switch: sends to one. Router: joins networks and sends packets between them. Learn the three as a set.
- A router is what connects a local network to the internet. A switch alone cannot do that.
It lands in your notebook with its questions as flashcards.
Routers and other network devices: 5 questions and answers
These are the quiz’s questions. Do the quiz first, then come back here for the ones that got you.
Which device sends data to every device connected to it?
It does not check who the data is for.
Which device connects a local area network to the internet?
It joins networks together.
What does a network interface card do?
Every device on a network needs one.
What does a bridge do?
It joins networks of the same kind.
Why is a switch more secure than a hub?
Other devices never receive it.
Quiz
5 questions
Tap an answer and you’ll see straight away whether it’s right, and why.
Worksheet
2 questions, 5 marks. Write your answers on paper, then check them.
Routers and other network devices
Cambridge IGCSE Information & Communication Technology 0417 · 5 marks · papermunch.org
Name ______________________________ Date ______________
Describe the difference between a hub and a switch.[2]
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A hub sends the data it receives to every device connected to it. A switch sends the data only to the device it is intended for.
Describe three functions of a router.[3]
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It connects networks together, such as a local network to the internet. It stores the addresses of computers on the network. It routes data packets to their destination.
Answers: Routers and other network devices
- 1. A hub sends the data it receives to every device connected to it. A switch sends the data only to the device it is intended for.
- 2. It connects networks together, such as a local network to the internet. It stores the addresses of computers on the network. It routes data packets to their destination.