Oxford Cambridge and RSA
GCSE (9-1) Computer Science
Computer Systems
J277/01
Topic: Unit 1.3 Network Hardware
Time allowed: 30 minutes
Centre number
Candidate number
First name
Last name
INSTRUCTIONS
Use black ink.
Answer all the questions.
INFORMATION
The total mark for this paper is 22.
The marks for each question are shown in brackets [ ].
Turn over
1
Draw a line to match each piece of network hardware to its correct definition.
[4]
Hardware
Router
Switch
NIC
WAP
Definition
Connects devices on a LAN.
Connects different networks (e.g. LAN to WAN).
Creates a wireless local area network.
Allows a device to connect to a network.
2
Scenario:
A student buys a new laptop to use at college. The laptop has an internal Network Interface Controller (NIC).
(a) State the purpose of the NIC.
[1]
(b) The NIC has a specific address hardcoded into it by the manufacturer.
State the name of this address.
[1]
Turn over
3
A small office has 10 computers connected together using cables. The cables are plugged into a central Switch.
(a) Explain how a Switch directs data to the correct computer.
[3]
(b) The office manager suggests replacing the Switch with a Hub to save money.
Explain why this would negatively affect network performance.
[2]
4
A coffee shop offers free Wi-Fi to its customers. They use a Wireless Access Point (WAP) and a Router.
(a) Describe the role of the Wireless Access Point (WAP) in this network.
[2]
(b) Describe the role of the Router in this network.
[2]
(c) Explain one difference between a Switch and a Router.
[2]
5
Extended Answer:
A startup company is setting up a new Local Area Network (LAN). They need to purchase hardware to ensure the network is fast, secure, and capable of connecting to the Internet.
Explain the specific jobs of a Switch and a Router within this network and explain why both are required.