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Wired And Wireless Networks Aqa

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Exam code:8525

Key specification changes for AQA GCSE Computer Science (8525) – first exam 2027

You do not need to know the use of “Ethernet” or “Wi-Fi” protocols
If you’re sitting AQA GCSE Computer Science in 2026, your exam will still be based on the older syllabus
Make sure you are using our legacy notes so you cover everything you need.

Wired & Wireless Networks – 2026 exams

To connect devices to a network, there are two main options:
- Wired
- Wireless
There are advantages and disadvantages to each option which are explored below

Wired & Wireless Networks

A wired network is a network where physical cables are used to join devices together and transmit data
Computers can be connected to networks using many different types of wires to transmit data
The most common types of cables in a wired network are:
- Fibre optic
- Copper

Fibre optic is a type of cable that uses light to transmit data on a wide area network (WAN)
Fibre transmits data at a much higher speed and has a much higher bandwidth compared to copper cables
Fibre optic cable does not suffer from interference which makes them the most secure option to send sensitive data
Fibre optic cables can cover a long distance without any degradation, they can span cities and countries

Copper is a type of cable originally used in telecommunication to transmit voice signals, forming the traditional landline phone network
The ability to use copper to deliver network traffic on a wide area network (WAN) made the internet possible
Copper cables degrade over time which limits their range compared to fibre optic
Copper cable suffers from interference which can disrupt data quality
Copper transmits data at a much slower rate, and has a much lower bandwidth compared to fibre optic

Advantages	Disadvantages
Speed – Fast data transfer	Portability – Can’t move easily, location is limited by physical cable
Security – Better physical security	Cost – Need more cables to add a new device
Range – High (up to 100m), less susceptible to interference	Safety – Cables can be trip hazards, need routing along walls, under floors

A wireless network is a network where connections are made using radio waves to transmit data through the air

When setting up a wireless network, organisations must consider how to protect sensitive data from unauthorised access.
Common data privacy concerns include:
- Spoofing / session hijacking – an attacker pretends to be an authorised user to gain access to the network
- Eavesdropping – because wireless data is broadcast, it can be intercepted by a third party
- Encrypting data – ensure data is not sent in plain text by enabling encryption on routers
- Malware infiltration – Wi-Fi is more visible and therefore more exposed to malicious attacks
- Malicious hotspots – unofficial access points can trick users into connecting, allowing attackers to steal data

Always mention both the concern and a short explanation for full marks

Advantages	Disadvantages
Portability – Easy to move around, location is only limited by range	Speed – Slower data transfer than wired
Cost – Less expensive to setup and add new devices	Security – Less secure than wired
Compatibility – Most devices are manufactured with a built in wireless adapter	Range – Relies on signal strength to the WAP, signals can be obstructed (up to 90m)

Give three advantages of using a wireless network instead of a wired network [3]

Answer

flexibility to expand network/add users/add own devices to the network
there is no need to drill holes/install cabling
mobility of user/devices (portable)
modern devices are more likely to (be designed to) connect wirelessly (built in adapters)
guest access (can add temporary connection)
no trip hazards

Guidance