N4 Introductory Computer

Practice

VANESSA WILLEMSE

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 Contents
Module 1: Computing concepts and application skills
Unit 1 Introduction to computing concepts and
systems technologies ............................................................... 7
Information Communication Technology (ICT) ............................ 8
The role of computers ................................................................ 8
ICT in everyday business operations ............................................ 9
Computer usage and applications in society ....................... 10
How computers impact our daily lives ...................................... 10
Unit 2 Personal computers and how it’s used ................................. 12
The components of the personal computer .............................. 12
Types of computers and their purpose within an office ............. 13
The difference between hardware and software ....................... 15
Types of software ..................................................................... 17
Unit 3 Introduction to systems technologies and the
information processing cycle ................................................ 18
Information processing ............................................................. 18
Information processing cycle .................................................... 19
How are the steps related? ....................................................... 19
Basic model of an information processing device ...................... 19
Some important terms ............................................................. 20
The purpose of storage ............................................................ 20
The various components required and utilised for I/O,
storage and processing............................................................. 20
Unit 4 Basic concepts of systems and application software .......... 23
Systems and application software ............................................. 23
Types of systems and application software ................................ 23
The role of the OS .................................................................... 24
The role of the OS as an interface............................................. 24
The OS provides a user with a variety of
operations and functions ......................................................... 24
Different utility software and their purpose
(including anti-virus software)................................................... 24
Unit 5 Starting up and shutting down an operating system ......... 26
Logging off or placing a computer in sleep mode ..................... 27
Restarting a computer using an appropriate routine ................. 28
Shut down ............................................................................... 28

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 Unit 6 Explore and use the operating system (OS) ......................... 29
The components of the OS desktop ........................................ 29
The purpose of the desktop and the taskbar ........................... 30
Use the Start button on the taskbar to gain
access to other functions of the OS .......................................... 32
Identify common icons and discuss their meaning such as:
file icons, folder icons, drive icons, peripheral device icons,
shortcuts, recycle bin, applications............................................ 33
Open different windows .......................................................... 34
Use two programs simultaneously in Windows and switch
between the two .................................................................... 35
Identify the content of disks and folders in the content
panel of Windows Explorer ...................................................... 35
Identify the file types correctly according to their extensions ..... 39
Perform basic file management operations ............................... 40
Digital communication mediums ............................................. 51
Use the Help function to solve problems .................................. 53
Use available utility software .................................................... 54
Unit 7 Using input and pointing devices ........................................ 60
Using input and pointing devices ............................................ 61
Typing posture.......................................................................... 67
WordPad .................................................................................. 69
Demonstrate proficiency in using a pointing device (mouse) ..... 82
Unit 8 Introduction to word processing .......................................... 86
Define the term ‘word processing’ ........................................... 86
Why do we use word processing software? .............................. 87
Unit 9 Starting a word processing application ............................. 88
Open or start a word processor ............................................... 88
Create a new blank document ................................................ 89
The concept and purpose of templates .................................... 91
Export/save a document in another format ............................... 93
Explore common features of the Ribbon tabs,
Quick Access Toolbar, Office Buttons and Menus ..................... 98
Use the Help function provided ............................................. 104
Unit 10 Keyboarding and keyboard proficiency in a document.... 106
Alphabetical keys ................................................................... 107
Number keys .......................................................................... 109
Caps Lock .............................................................................. 110
Enter ...................................................................................... 110
Backspace .............................................................................. 110
Delete .................................................................................... 111

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 Spacebar ................................................................................ 111
Shift ....................................................................................... 111
Tab ......................................................................................... 111
Ctrl + Alt ................................................................................ 111
F keys ..................................................................................... 111
Tab, Caps Lock and Shift key practice ..................................... 111
Basic editing symbols ............................................................. 116
Manuscript signs .................................................................... 117
GIGO (Garbage in Garbage out) ............................................ 125
Use other keys and key combinations ..................................... 126
Alphabetical keys ................................................................... 128
Type special characters, symbols and punctuation marks ........ 129
Common shortcuts ............................................................... 132
Unit 11 Reinforce practical keyboarding and typing skills
using a word processor ....................................................... 134
Type revision, remedial and drill exercises ................................ 142
Type speed-building exercises (using a Typing Tutor) ............... 150
Touch type with confidence .................................................... 153
Unit 12 Use basic features to create, edit and format
a document ......................................................................... 163
The purpose and advantages of using word
processing software .............................................................. 163
How to open and save a document ....................................... 164
Page orientation .................................................................... 188
Unit 13 Spreadsheet basics ............................................................... 201
What is a spreadsheet? .......................................................... 202
The purpose of a spreadsheet................................................. 202
Different uses of spreadsheets ................................................ 203
Opening and starting the spreadsheet application ............... 204
Create a new blank spreadsheet/workbook ........................... 205
Navigating a workbook ......................................................... 206
Open an existing spreadsheet ................................................ 208
Use the Help function ........................................................... 218
Differentiate and move between a tab sheet, row,
column and a cell .................................................................. 218
Add content to a cell ............................................................. 221
Use basic features to format a spreadsheet ............................ 227
A cell in a worksheet document refers to only one element
of data of a specific type ....................................................... 235
Columns, rows and worksheets and their purpose ................. 236
Entering data of different types in a cell ................................ 237

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 Edit the data content of a cell ............................................... 240
Cell referencing ...................................................................... 244
Format cells ............................................................................ 245
The purpose of a spreadsheet and the concepts of a cell, row,
column and a sheet ................................................................ 247
Resizing rows and columns .................................................... 248
Transfer common features from word
processing skills ..................................................................... 249
Basic formatting and editing .................................................. 250
Spell check, preview and set print (range or sheet) options and
printing documents ................................................................ 256
Unit 14 Use formulae to perform basic calculations in
a spreadsheet ....................................................................... 258
The order of precedence and the use of brackets .................. 263
Use the Autofill tool to repeat formulae and increment
data entries ............................................................................ 264
Sort data ............................................................................... 270
Identify problems based on the following error indicators:
#VALUE, #NAME, #NUM, #REF, #DIV/0, #N/A, ###### .......... 271
Troubleshoot basic errors in formulae and functions, printing . 271
Additional activities ................................................................ 274
Exam practice questions ......................................................... 280

Module 2: Networking concepts

Unit 1 Networks .............................................................................. 282
The term ‘network’ ................................................................ 283
Everyday networks ................................................................. 283
Other types of networks ......................................................... 285
Advantages and disadvantages of using networks .................. 287
The components and hardware required for network
communications ..................................................................... 288
Different types of networking hardware ................................. 290
Module summary ................................................................... 294

Module 3:Computational thinking skills

Unit 1 Computational thinking components ................................ 297
Computational thinking ......................................................... 298
Computational thinking processes .......................................... 300
Organise objects, statements and words................................. 303
Steps to complete an action ................................................... 304

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 Sequencing activities .............................................................. 304
Patterns ................................................................................. 306
Interpret and recognise the pattern ........................................ 308
Similarities in the pattern........................................................ 309
Pattern predictions ................................................................ 311
Algorithms ............................................................................. 312
Algorithm processes in daily life.............................................. 313
Algorithms in real-life scenarios .............................................. 314
Explain an existing algorithm .................................................. 314
Steps in an algorithm ............................................................. 315
Problem-solving ..................................................................... 316
Problem-solving tools ............................................................. 317
What are the tools or instrument to solve a problem? ............ 317
Planning steps to solve a problem........................................... 320
Decomposition ....................................................................... 322
Abstraction ............................................................................ 323
Steps to solve the problem ..................................................... 325
Reflecting on solving the problem .......................................... 326
Module summary ................................................................... 327
Exam questions ...................................................................... 328

Module 4: Introduction to the internet and WWW

Unit 1 The internet ......................................................................... 331
The internet ........................................................................... 331
Connectivity ........................................................................... 332
The world wide web (WWW) ................................................. 333
Web address/uniform resource locator (URL)........................... 333
The differences between a web page and a website ............... 334
Purpose of a browser, search engine, other online tools
and networks ......................................................................... 335
Web browsers ........................................................................ 336
How do you use a web browser? ........................................... 336
Type a URL in the address bar ................................................. 338
Safe internet usage ................................................................ 339
Layered authentication ........................................................... 340
Captcha ................................................................................. 340
What is the difference between information
piracy and privacy? ................................................................. 341
Perform a search using a search engine .................................. 342
Accessing a website to obtain information............................... 343
Social electronic media and networks .................................... 344

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 Module summary ................................................................... 346
Exam questions ...................................................................... 347

Module 5:How ICT impacts society at large

Unit 1 How ICT impacts society at large ........................................ 352
Influence of ICT in one’s life ................................................... 353
Influence of ICT on lifestyles ................................................... 353
ICT in daily living .................................................................... 354
ICT in society ......................................................................... 359
Mobile technology ................................................................. 362
ICT and crime ......................................................................... 365
The Impact of ICT on the workplace ....................................... 368
Unit 2 The impact of the use of ICT on the environment ............ 371
What is green computing? ..................................................... 371
E-waste .................................................................................. 372
Impact of ICT on e-waste and green computing ..................... 372
Reduction of environmental impact ....................................... 373
Unit 3 The basics of cloud computing and digital presence ........ 376
The building blocks of modern computing ............................. 378
Cloud computing ................................................................... 380
Search engines ....................................................................... 390
Demonstrate ICT in everyday life ............................................ 392
ICT in real life ........................................................................ 396
Digital citizenship ................................................................... 399
Demonstrate cybercrime, identity theft, hacking
and phishing ......................................................... 402
Copyright and plagiarism ....................................................... 404
Types of copyright .................................................................. 405
Permissions and digital content rights ..................................... 407
Reference sources .................................................................. 407
Purpose of regulatory bills and implications ............................ 409
What is a regulatory bill? ........................................................ 409
Module summary ................................................................... 411
Exam questions ...................................................................... 412

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 Module
Networking concepts
2
What is covered
In this module, you will learn about networks: what they are, where
we find them, and what the advantages and disadvantages are of
using networks. We are also going to look at the basic components
and hardware that are required for network communications.
Then, in the last unit, you will learn about the use, purpose, and
operation of different types of networking hardware.

Learning outcomes

After studying this chapter you should be able to:

Unit 1
■ Define the term ‘network’
■ List and briefly describe common examples of everyday
networks
■ Understand the advantages and disadvantages of using
networks
■ Be able to describe the basic components and hardware
required for network communications
■ Differentiate between the use, purpose, and operation of
different types of networking hardware

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 Unit 1: Networks

LEARNING OUTCOMES
■ Define the term ‘network’
■ List and briefly describe common examples of everyday networks
■ Understand the advantages and disadvantages of using networks
■ Be able to describe the basic components and hardware required for network
communications
■ Differentiate between the use, purpose, and operation of different types of
networking hardware

Introduction
Technology today is constantly evolving and influences the way people and
businesses communicate. Businesses rely on computers in order to share information
and to communicate effectively in all fields, for example medicine, education,
agriculture, etc. The establishment of a computer network is important for effective
business operations. The size of a network can vary from a few computers in one
building to millions of computers that are connected around the world.

Figure 2.1 Technology connects us

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 The term ‘network’

Module 2
A network in computer terms can be defined as a cluster of two or more computers
that are wired together. The main aim of a computer network is to access and share
information using shared resources, such as the internet, a printer, etc. Computer
networks are the basis of communication in Information Technology (IT).

Hub Hub

Router

Internet

Figure 2.2 An example of a computer network

Everyday networks
There are three main types of computer networks commonly used in organisations,
namely LAN, MAN, WAN, etc. They have a few differences, but also some
similarities. Let’s look at them.

Figure 2.3 An office network

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 Local area network (LAN)
LANs enable computers to be wired close together in the same building, for
example a school.
LAN A LAN is a relatively private network. This means it is not controlled by
Local Area Network
outside governing bodies. These computers are linked to one or two printers,
or a scanner. This means resources are shared and enables data storage.
The sharing of resources is mainly used in an office building. A LAN can
be assembled with low-cost hardware, such as hubs, network adapters, and
ethernet cables. LANs depend typically on wired connections for faster
Figure 2.4 A local area network speed and better security.

Metropolitan area network (MAN)

A MAN is a computer network system intended for a college, a huge company, town
or city. The MAN network is bigger than a LAN, smaller than a WAN and restricted
to a building or specific area. A MAN is mostly used to connect quite a number of
LANs with cables or optical fibre to establish a bigger network. MANs provides
high-speed communication. It remains a challenge to provide a secure system from
hackers.

MAN
LAN NETWORK LAN

LAN LAN
LAN

Figure 2.5 A metropolitan network

Wide-area network (WAN)

WANs are computer networks that are spread over a vast
geographical area. The WAN network system is made up of
numerous smaller networks, such as LANs and MANs. In
order to connect LANs to a WAN, a network device called
a router is needed. A network of ATMs uses a WAN.
WANs enable us to use computerised devices such
as laptops, mobile phones, tablets, computers, gaming
consoles (PlayStation or Xbox), etc.

Figure 2.6 Gaming uses a WAN

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 The start-up cost is extremely high and the security risk is low in this type of

Module 2
network. This system requires skilful technicians, as more errors might have to be
addressed because of the wide coverage area. A well-known example of a public
WAN is the world wide web (internet). It is the biggest WAN covering the earth.

LAN LAN

LAN LAN LAN LAN

Server Server

WAN

LAN

LAN LAN
Server

Figure 2.7 A wide-area network

Other types of networks

Personal area network (PAN)

A PAN is the smallest simplest form of a network. A PAN is controlled by one
person from one computerised device. A printer is shared or information accessed
via, for example, mobile phones, laptops or tablets. A wireless PAN is possible
between Bluetooth devices or if connected to a wireless modem. This type of
network can be used in a small office.

Personal area
network

Figure 2.8 A personal area network

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 Home area network (HAN)
A HAN is a typical home network used in individual homes. One or more
computerised devices are connected to a person’s digital device. This network creates
a LAN network within the individual home. It enables participants in this network to
share files, printers, etc.

Figure 2.9 A home area network

Campus area networks (CAN)

A CAN is a network system that allows various LANs to connect within a
restricted geographical area. Examples are a military base or a university that can
be connected to several campus buildings to enable connections to the different
academic faculties.
Did you know?
During the 2020 ACTIVITY 2.1 Know your networks
COVID-19 pandemic,
all non-essential Write the answers to this activity in a notepad.
businesses were shut
and those workers
Match the acronym in Column A with the statement in Column B.
that could worked
COLUMN A COLUMN B
from home. Schools
and universities 1. WAN The smallest simplest form of a network
switched to online
learning. Businesses 2. LAN A computer network system for a big business or town
adapted and arranged
3. PAN Network system intended for a college, or a big business
for their employees
to have access to the 4. MAN Networks that are spread over a vast geographical area
company networks
so they could keep 5. HAN Computers connected close together in the same building
on operating.

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 Advantages and disadvantages of using

Module 2
networks
Setting up a computer network system can be simple and easy. It is one of the most
effective ways of sharing information.

The advantages of using networks

■ Anyone can connect to a computer network that is open to the public.
■ Networks improve communication and accessibility of information. Simple and
immediate messaging allows individuals to talk in real-time. Keywords
■ It allows file sharing easily, as well as the sharing of data between various people. computer virus a
computer virus is
■ Resources such as software, printers, etc. can be shared with ease and this will
created to cause harm
cut costs. to a computer system
■ Networks allow a developing storage volume that enables people to connect to a or programs, steal
network to access files and multimedia , such as images, music, etc. information, alter
data, etc.
■ Networks enforce control over the storage of data. Company files can be stored
in a file server. These files can be made available for sharing with every worker phishing a
in the organisation. cybercrime in
which a target is
■ A well-secured network will protect the system against computer viruses contacted via email,
and phishing. telephone or text
■ A great network system is reliable and will enable the backing up and proper message by someone
pretending to be a real
storage of information. organisation to trick
■ A well-managed network system will reduce errors, as this kind of system will people into providing
have expert and well-trained technicians. private information

The disadvantages of using networks

■ If the server or network breaks down or becomes defective, the whole network
comes to a standstill.
■ Workers are more dependent on computers than ever before. If the server
becomes defective the workers will not be able to operate and this will cause
production to slow down or stop.
■ A computer virus infection can spread on a system and files can become
corrupt. Therefore, regular scans must be performed on every network system.
■ Setting up a network can be costly, as the network cabling and equipment
are expensive.
■ In a giant network system, there is always the challenge of keeping
information secure.
■ An effective network system needs great technical skill.
■ An enormous network can encourage workers to engage in unlawful practices,
such as sharing organisational files outside of the business. It may cause
distractions during working hours, such as online gaming, spending time on
social media sites or online shopping etc.

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 The components and hardware required for
network communications
A computer network consists of many components. Some of these are parts needed
to install the software. Some of the important network components used in network
communication are the NIC, hub, switch, router, server, cables, modem, and client.
Data can be transferred from one device to another and facilitates
communication between different devices. Computer networks share common
devices, functions and features, such as servers, clients, transmission media, shared
data, shared printer, other hardware and software resources, etc. Figure 2.10 shows
the basic components and hardware required for network communication.

Server
NIC Client

Computer network
Hub Modem
components

Switch Router Cables

Figure 2.10 Computer network components

Network interface card (NIC)

Every computer in a computer network must have a network interface card (NIC).
It connects a computer to other computers in a network. An internal NIC slots
into the motherboard of a computer that uses a cable and connectors. A laptop
uses an external NIC. This is a wireless NIC that holds the antenna to acquire the
connections over the wireless network.

Figure 2.11 A network

Hub
interface card A hub is a hardware device that splits the network connections among several
devices. It is used to link all the computers to each other in a computer network.

Switch
A switch is a hardware device that links several devices on a computer network. It is
similar to a hub, but with more advanced features. A switch will send the message
directly to the computer device that needs it or that requested data.

Figure 2.12 A hub Figure 2.13 A switch

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 Clients

Module 2
A client is a computer that is linked to other computers in the network and can
receive data shared by other computers. In many businesses, each employee will have
a client computer that enables them to access files from the company’s server.
The server provides resources for sharing and internet access.

Clients

Server

Figure 2.14 A Client-Server network

Modem
A modem uses a telephone cable and is used as a hardware device for a
computer to connect to the internet. A modem stands for Modulator/
Demodulator. It alters the digital data into an analogue signal over a
telephone cable.
Figure 2.15 A modem
Router
A router is a hardware device used to link a LAN with an internet
connection. A single internet connection can be shared with a number of
computers in a network. A router can be programmed to comprehend the
manipulation of data and is able to respond to the data it handles.

LAN cable
Figure 2.16 A router
The LAN cable is a wire that
is used to link more than one
computer or other devices, such
as printers and scanners, to each
other. A LAN cable is also called
an ethernet cable. Figure 2.17 A LAN cable

Server
Servers are an essential part of any IT infrastructure. A server is a computer utilised
in a network that offers a service to a client. It processes and stores data that can be
shared over a computer network or the internet.
A computer device can serve both the purpose of a server and a client. It can run
resources and use them from another system at the same time. Demand for servers
is constant. This is why most servers are never switched off, only in situations where
there is a major problem with the server or during power outages. Switching off a
server causes massive problems for network users and businesses. Figure 2.18 A server

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 Different types of networking hardware
There are different types of networking hardware. This hardware can also be called
network equipment. These consist of electronic devices required for communication
and interaction in computer networks.

Figure 2.19 Servicing network equipment

NIC (network interface card)

The NIC is also called the ethernet card and network adapter. Without the NIC, a
computer cannot be linked over a network.
The main purpose of the NIC is:
■ The NIC links a computer to the internet or a local data-sharing network, for
example a home network.
■ The NIC enables both wired and wireless communications.
■ The NIC decodes computer data into electrical signals. It arranges or formats
the data, then sends the data to the receiving computer.
■ The NIC controls the data flow between computers.

The HUB
The HUB is a device that links several network-enabled devices in a local area
network (LAN). The HUB’s main purpose is to form a single network on which all
devices can interconnect directly with each other.

Keywords Operation of the HUB

transmission ■ A computer requests data/information from a computer network.
speed the speed
at which data is ■ Data transmission will take place through electrical signals.
moved across a ■ The computer will first send the request to the HUB via a cable.
communication
■ The HUB will transmit the request over the whole network in order for the
channel
correct server to respond and receive the request.
Mbps megabytes ■ HUBs are also called ‘dumb’ devices as HUBS transfer anything received.
per second
■ The transmission speed of the HUB is 10 Mbps.
Gbps gigabytes
■ A HUB is mainly used in a small LAN network.
per second
■ A HUB is inexpensive.

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 Switches

Module 2
■ A switch runs a direct connection between the source and the destination.
■ A switch does not transmit the message to the whole network like the HUB.
■ It instructs the computer device to whom the message has to be communicated to.
■ The switch diffuses an incoming data request by using the actual device address
(where the device is located) in the incoming request.
■ The request will then be transferred to the correct server computer. Therefore, a
switch is more efficient than a HUB.
Keywords
Mbps megabytes
■ The switch is mainly used in a LAN network. per second
■ The speed of transferring data is 10–100 Mbps, 1 Gbps.
Gbps gigabytes
■ Switches are also called semi-intelligent devices. The switch determines the per second
proper location of the devices it is connected to almost instantly.

Routers
■ Routers link several computer networks to each other.
■ A router aids the movement of data between computerised
devices and networks.
■ The main purpose of the router is to transfer data from the
modem to computerised devices.
■ For example, in a household a parent can be on a computer
in the home office and the children on their tablets or
smartphones in their rooms. All in the same household will be
able to connect to the internet simultaneously using the same
internet connection with the support of a router.
■ Data can also be transferred between several computer
networks.
■ Routers offer access to a laptop, smartphone and other Figure 2.20 A home network with devices all
wireless devices as well. connected via a Wi-Fi router

Modem
■ A modem is a device that makes it possible for a computer to communicate
data over the telephone line or cable line.
■ A benefit of the modem is that it enables an individual device or network to
access the internet and communicate with the world.
■ There are two types of modems:
■ Dial-up modems that use the telephone line
■ Modems for satellite and fibre optic cable networks.
■ Modems are not that secure, as they can permit viruses and hackers to enter
a network.

Clients
A client is a computer device that uses the resources on a server by connecting to
the server.

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 Servers
The main purpose of a computer server is storage. It is also used to retrieve and
send computer files and data from one computer to another on the same network. A
server also issues work to clients and shares resources. There are many ways in which
a server can be utilised. Some servers are dedicated to a specific task.

Figure 2.21 A computer server room at a data centre

There are different types of servers:

■ Application server: Host web applications so that network users can use them
without having to install a copy of the computer program on their computers. A
great number of users share resources on an application server.
■ Webserver: Clients get access via the webserver to the internet’s web pages
using a web browser.
■ File server: Share and store files through a network. Files can be accessed by
multiple users and share stored files on the server.
■ Client-server: A central server that provides data for clients to allocate work
and share resources. For example the internet, where millions of servers are
linked together.
■ Mail server: This is an application server that receives mail sent to users and
stores them until requested by a client.
■ Database server: Companies use large amounts of data. Many clients need to
access databases anytime. Databases thus need large amounts of disk space. For
this reason, database servers run database applications and respond to several
requests from clients.
Keywords ■ Proxy server: This is a computer device that enables you to go on the internet
IP internet protocol under a different IP address. An IP address assists in linking your computer
address
to other devices on your world-wide network. A proxy server will be used, for
example, when you are travelling to another country and the technology set up
in this country stops you from connecting to a website in your home country.
■ LAN cable: A LAN cable connects computers, switches, routers, etc. to a LAN.
The LAN cable is limited in length and strength. This means if a LAN cable it
too long, it is not able to transmit a good and stable network signal. The ends
of the cable must be close to each other to be able to receive signals swiftly.
Wireless technology, for example Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, have replaced cables in
businesses and homes.

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 Module 2
ACTIVITY 2.2 Advantages and disadvantages of networks

Write the answers to this activity in a notepad. Determine if the following information
is an advantage or a disadvantage of networks.
1. A computer virus infection can spread on a system and files can become corrupt.
2. Networks enforce control over the storage of data.
3. A well-managed network system will reduce errors, as this kind of system will
have expert and well-trained technicians.
4. Workers are more dependent on computers than ever before.
5. An enormous network can encourage workers to engage in unlawful acts.
6. Setting up a network can be costly.
7. Networks allow file sharing easily, as well as the sharing of data between various
people.
8. Networks allow a developing storage volume.
9. If the network server breaks down, the network comes to a standstill.
10. Resources, such as software, printers, etc. can be easily shared.

ACTIVITY 2.3 True or false?

Write the answers to this activity in a notepad. The following statements are false.
Correct the statements so that they are true.
1. A proxy server is a computer that is linked to other computers in the network and
can receive data shared by other computers.
2. A switch will transmit data through electrical signals.
3. A hub will send the message directly to the computer device that needs it or that
requested data.
4. The router communicates data over the telephone line or cable line.
5. A web server hosts web applications so that network users can use them without
having to install a copy of the computer program on their computers.
6. The database server is a computer device that enables you to go on the internet
under a different IP address.
7. A network intervention card is also called the ethernet card and network adapter.
8. A VGA cable is a wire that is used to link more than one computer, or other
devices such as printers and scanners to each other.
9. The mail server shares and stores files through a network.
10. A HAN is network system that allows various LANs to connect within a restricted
geographical area. Examples are the military base or a university.

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 Module summary
■ We now know that computers have the ability to send and receive information
over a world-wide telecommunications network. This forever changed the way
individuals and businesses communicate in the world.
■ The LAN (local area network) can be two computers in a home office or a
university with various faculties that has hundreds of computers connected
to each other. Computer networks have the ability to share or exchange
information and resources. There are different types of networks, each with
various benefits and disadvantages. The most common network is the LAN
which expands to a MAN, followed by a WAN. The PAN is the smallest network
but used every day by ordinary people through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections.
■ There are basic hardware components needed to connect to a network and
enable it to function effectively. These components are the NIC, hub, switch, client
(computer station), server, router, modem and network cables. Networks are
constantly being created every day and are a significant role-player in the future
of individuals, businesses and the world.

Exam practice questions

Write the answers to these questions in a notepad.
1. Match the statement or definition in Column A with the word in Column B.
COLUMN A COLUMN B
1. Connection of computers and devices over a small MAN
geographical location
2. Connects to home devices such as a few personal computers, PAN
phone and printers
3. Connection of computer and devices that are close to a person LAN
4. The connection of loads of devices that span large cities over a CAN
wide geographical area
5. The connection of devices, printers, phones and accessories WAN
within a campus which links to other departments within the
same campus
6. Connects devices, phones, printers, scanners, etc. over a very HAN
wide geographical location which may range to connect cities,
countries and even continents (2 × 6 = 12)
2. Fill in the missing word:
a) A _____________ is hardware that allows for storage of programs,
information and resources.
b) A ______________ is hardware that joins multiple computers together
within one local area network (LAN).
c) When two or more computers are connected via software and hardware to
communicate they create a _________________.
d) A _______________ is hardware that connects an analogue phone line to a
digital computer network. (3 × 4 = 12)
3. List five advantages and five disadvantages of using computer
network systems. (10 × 1 = 10)
4. What is a network interface card and what is its purpose? (6 × 1 = 6)
Total: 40 marks

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