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Year 10 · ICT · Autumn 2 · Networks; layout and styles

Internet, intranet, extranet; the cloud

TheoryPresent ▶

What this lesson covers

4.1b Types of network and cloud computing

Cambridge IGCSE ICT 0417 · Topic 4: Networks and the effects of using them · Paper 1

You will learn to

  • Compare the internet, an intranet and an extranet.
  • Describe cloud computing, with advantages and disadvantages.
  • Answer past-paper questions on network types and the cloud.

Success criteria

  • I can fill in a table showing who can use the internet, an intranet and an extranet.
  • I can give two advantages and two risks of storing school work in the cloud.
  • I can mark my answer with the mark scheme and add the missing point.
The syllabus points for this section
  • Compare Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
  • Describe cloud computing and give advantages and disadvantages.
  • Compare the internet, an intranet and an extranet.
  • Describe LAN, WLAN and WAN and compare them.

Key words

Say each word, then read what it means. Every one is in the glossary too.

Network
Two or more devices connected so they can share data and resources.
IP address
An address that identifies a device on a network or the internet.
LAN
Local area network: covers one building or site.
WLAN
Wireless LAN: devices connect by Wi-Fi.
WAN
Wide area network: covers a large area, joining many LANs.
Intranet
A private network for members of one organisation.
Extranet
Part of an intranet that authorised outsiders can reach.
Cloud computing
Storing data and running software on remote servers over the internet.

The explanation

Read it here, or open the study page below to go one step at a time with things to try.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Both send data by radio waves, so no cables are needed.

Wi-Fi connects devices to a network and the internet over a range of about 30 to 100 metres.

Bluetooth connects two devices close together, usually under 10 metres, such as a phone and wireless earphones.

Wi-FiBluetooth
RangeLonger (about 30–100 m)Short (usually under 10 m)
Data transfer rateFasterSlower
Number of devicesMany on one networkFew, usually pairs
SecurityBetter, with strong encryption (WPA2/WPA3)Weaker; can be intercepted if left discoverable
Power useHigherLower
Typical useLaptops in a school, internet at homeEarphones, smartwatch, wireless keyboard, car hands-free

Cloud computing

Cloud computing means storing files and running software on remote servers, reached over the internet, instead of on your own computer.

Examples: online file storage and online office apps. A school might keep all student work in cloud storage.

The servers are owned by a cloud provider and kept in large data centres.

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Files can be reached from any device, anywhere with internetNeeds a reliable internet connection; no internet means no files
Provider makes backups, so data is safe if your laptop breaksSecurity and privacy depend on the provider; data could be hacked
Easy to share and work on the same file togetherOngoing subscription costs
Storage can be increased easily without buying hardwareData may be stored in another country with different laws

Internet, intranet and extranet

The internet is a worldwide network of networks. It is public: anyone can connect.

An intranet is a private network inside one organisation. It uses the same technology as the internet, but only members (staff, students) can use it. Example: a school intranet with timetables and homework.

An extranet is part of an intranet that selected outsiders can reach with a password. Example: a supermarket lets its suppliers check stock levels.

InternetIntranetExtranet
Who can use itAnyoneMembers of one organisationThe organisation plus authorised outsiders
ContentPublic, not checkedPrivate, controlled by the organisationSelected private content
SizeWorldwideUsually one organisationOne organisation and its partners
Reliability of informationVaries a lotMore reliable, because it is managedMore reliable
!Watch out

The internet is not the same as the World Wide Web. The internet is the network. The web is the pages you reach over it.

LAN, WLAN and WAN

A LAN (local area network) covers one building or site, such as a school. Devices are connected by cables.

A WLAN (wireless LAN) is a LAN where devices connect by Wi-Fi through wireless access points (WAPs).

A WAN (wide area network) covers a large area, such as a country or the world. It joins many LANs. The internet is the biggest WAN. A bank with branches across Spain uses a WAN.

LAN (cabled)WLANWAN
AreaOne building or siteOne building or siteCities, countries, worldwide
ConnectionCablesRadio waves (Wi-Fi)Telephone lines, fibre, satellite, leased lines
SpeedFastUsually slower than cable; drops with distance and wallsSlower than a LAN
SecurityMore secure: need physical access to a cableLess secure: signals can be picked up outsideNeeds strong security
AdvantageFast and reliableUsers can move around; no cables to trip overLinks offices far apart
DisadvantageCables are costly to install; users cannot moveInterference from walls and other devicesExpensive to set up and run

Study it

Open the study page and go one step at a time.

ICT topic 4

Networks and the effects of using them

Step by step, with exam questions and a quiz.

ICT topic 13

Layout

Step by step, with exam questions and a quiz.

ICT topic 14

Styles

Step by step, with exam questions and a quiz.

ICT topic 11

File management

Step by step, with exam questions and a quiz.

Topic 15 · Year 7

Networks and the internet

A network is computers connected to share data. The internet is a network of networks. Data travels in small packets, following rules called protocols.

Topic 16 · Year 8

The web

A web page is text written in HTML (what's on the page), styled with CSS (how it looks), sometimes with JavaScript (what it does). Your browser fetches it using a URL.

Check yourself

One question at a time. The reason shows after each answer.

Saved on this device.