Topic pathway
Computer networks, connections and protocols
Network types, topologies, protocols, layers, and network hardware.
Exam-board information
CodeQuest is an independent learning platform. It is not endorsed by, affiliated with, or sponsored by OCR, AQA, Edexcel, Pearson, or any exam board. Exam board names and specification references are used only to identify relevant curriculum pathways.
Specification section
Networks and topologies
Network types, LANs, WANs, basic network hardware, performance factors, and topology concepts.
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Lesson 01
Network Topologies
Describe star, mesh and bus network topologies.
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Lesson 02
Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer Networks
Describe client-server and peer-to-peer network roles.
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Lesson 03
LANs, WANs and Network Ownership
Describe LANs and WANs using scale and ownership.
Specification section
Wired and wireless networks, protocols and layers
Wired and wireless connections, network performance, protocols, layers, and security considerations.
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Lesson 01
Wired and Wireless Networks
Describe wired network connections.
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Lesson 02
Protocols: Rules for Communication
Explain what a network protocol is.
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Lesson 03
Network Hardware: Routers, Switches and Access Points
Describe the roles of routers, switches and wireless access points.
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Lesson 04
Wired, Wireless and Network Hardware
Compare wired Ethernet, wireless Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections.
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Lesson 05
Network Performance: Bandwidth, Latency and Interference
Define bandwidth, latency and interference.
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Lesson 06
IP Addresses, MAC Addresses, DNS and URLs
Distinguish IP addresses, MAC addresses, DNS and URLs.
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Lesson 07
Protocols: HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, IMAP and POP
State the purpose of HTTP, HTTPS, FTP, SMTP, IMAP and POP.
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Lesson 08
IP, MAC, DNS and the Web
Trace a simplified web request.
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Lesson 09
Packet Switching and Layers
Explain why data is split into packets and describe relevant control information.
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Lesson 10
Layers and Packet Travel
Apply a simplified layered networking model.
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Lesson 11
Networks Exam Practice
Apply networking knowledge to original OCR-style questions.