Edexcel GCSE Computer Science
5.1.2: understand the different types of networks (LAN, WAN) and usage models (client-server, peer-to-peer)
5.1.2: understand the different types of networks (LAN, WAN) and usage models (client-server, peer-to-peer)
| Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|
| Client | a computer (e.g. phone, tablet, desktop) that requests data from a server. It might not always be connected to the network and it shouldn't be trusted with sensitive data as it might be used by a hacker |
| Local Area Network | A network made up of computers connected together over a small area such as a school or office |
| Peer | a computer connected to a network that talks directly to other connected computers without needing to go through a server. |
| Server | a dedicated computer that listens for requests from multiple clients. It has a permanent network connection and is often trusted to store sensitive data. |
| Usage model | a way that computers connected to a network communicate with each other (e.g. client-server or peer-to-peer) |
| Wide Area Network | A network made up of multiple smaller networks connected together in multiple physical locations |
