Networks in the Home

In this scene, students can explore how networks are used in our homes in an increasing range of ways. From traditional landline telephones to mobile devices and smart, Wi-Fi-enabled home accessories, encourage your students to find out about the impact of the internet (and the internet of things) on our daily lives.

# Learning objectives

1: Be able to describe what a network is.{.info}

2: Be able to describe how a network is connected{.info}

3: Be able to explain the risks in a network.{.info}

# What is a Network?{.objective .objective1}

In this section A description of a network is outlined as two or more electronic devices (including computers) are connected together – normally through cables or Wi-Fi. This lets them exchange information electronically. This information allows them to share files, data or applications as though they were on the same device. For example, when you watch a streaming video on the internet, you are simply using a network (the internet) to watch a video that is stored on a different computer. Students are asked to Explore the ‘Networks in the Home’ scene and see if you can find out how all of the devices are connected.

# How does the Internet Connect us?{.objective .objective2}

In this section, a description of how the internet connects us is provided. The internet is the largest network in the world and connects millions of computers together in one network. Every time you look at a website, download an app or play a game online, you are using that network to connect to another computer, somewhere else in the world. Students are asked to enter the scene and to look around the area you are currently sitting. How many different servers are you currently connecting to?

# What is Wi-Fi?{.objective .objective3}

In this section, a description of Wi-Fi is provided. Wi-Fi is a term often used to describe the process of connecting to a router without using a wire. If your home has a wireless enabled router then you can connect to it with devices such as laptop computers, phones, tablets, games consoles or even VR headsets! By connecting to a Wi-Fi network you are allowing your device to reach the internet through the modem and router on the local network. Students are asked to enter the scene to identify how many devices in the scene that are connecting to the internet wirelessly? Look around the house to see if you can find any reasons why some devices might have stronger connections than others.

# How can we Protect our Home Network?{.objective .objective4}

In this section, problems with a network are outlined, and how we can increase the security described. It explains the reasons for the security requirements too. A discussion about information making its way into the wrong hands should be encouraged. This can give thieves access to private accounts and take control of devices. Security measures include network passwords, limited sharing of information about the network, and avoiding downloads or access to unknown unsecure content on the internet. Risks and remedies should evaluated.

# Teacher Resources

### Download Teacher Notes

[](https://data.avncloud.com/activities/793967/files/Networks%20in+the+home+Teacher+Notes+Only.pdf?date=1677494021&size=897924&md5=e7133defe604f0ae8211c69b66fd5bc0)

### Student Quiz Answers Document

[](https://data.avncloud.com/activities/793968/files/Networks%20in+the+home+Quiz+Answers.pdf?date=1677494096&size=557043&md5=e0f198475e361667a74edd6d91b0dd84)

### Download Student Quiz Document

[](https://data.avncloud.com/activities/793970/files/Networks%20in+the+home+Quiz+Only.pdf?date=1677494206&size=94975&md5=b602548d8636338b221a6f68ea86cc24)