GCSE
Computer Science
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Introduction to GCSE Computer Science -
1.1 Systems Architecture -
1.2 Memory and Storage -
1.3 Computer Networks, Connections and Protocols -
1.4 Network Security -
1.5 Systems Software -
1.6 Ethical, Legal, Cultural and Environmental Impacts of Digital Technology -
2.1 Algorithms -
2.2 Programming Fundamentals -
2.3 Producing Robust Programs -
2.4 Boolean Logic -
2.5 Programming Languages and Integrated Development Environments
1. Computer Systems
1.3.4 The Internet as a Collection of Networks
In this lesson, we will explore the internet as a network of networks. We will learn about DNS, web hosting, web servers, and cloud computing, along with its advantages and challenges.
The Internet
The internet is a worldwide collection of interconnected networks, providing global communication and access to a vast amount of information and resources.
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Create a free accountThe Internet
- The internet is a global collection of interconnected networks that allows communication and resource sharing worldwide.
DNS (Domain Name Server)
- DNS translates domain names (like www.knowness.com) into IP addresses used by computers.
- DNS uses a resolver to query DNS servers (root, TLD, and authoritative) to find the correct IP address for a given domain.
Hosting
- Hosting refers to storing websites or applications on servers that are accessible online.
- Web hosting companies maintain servers that make websites available to users on the internet.
Web Servers and Clients
- Web servers store and deliver website content.
- Clients (e.g., browsers) request data from web servers using protocols like HTTP.
The Cloud
- The Cloud provides remote services like storage, software, and processing over the internet.
- It allows users to access resources from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Advantages of the Cloud
- Cloud services can scale easily to meet demand.
- Cloud services are often cost-effective, using pay-as-you-go pricing.
- Cloud services are accessible from any device with internet access.
- Cloud providers offer data redundancy and backup, improving reliability.
- Disadvantages of the Cloud
- Cloud services require constant internet connectivity to function.
- There are security and privacy concerns when storing sensitive data in the cloud.
- Organisations may face compliance challenges with data regulations.
- Data transfer costs can be significant when moving large files to/from the cloud.