L1 Unit 3, Computer hardware systems and networks

Level 1, Unit 3 - Computer hardware systems and networks (5 credits)

1. Understand computer hardware	2. Understand the role of network servers	3. Be able to identify factors affecting network performance	4. Contribute to good network security
1.1 identify the main hardware components in computing devices	2.1 identify a server in a network diagram	3.1 compare the performance of cable and wireless connections	4.1 work to support an acceptable use policy
1.2 match discrete components in computing devices to purpose	2.2 identify a range of servers and services provided by servers to networks	3.2 relate bandwidth to data transfer capacity	4.2 choose a strong network password and keep it secure
1.3 classify hardware on the basis of purpose	2.3 identify key services provided by internet servers	3.3 explain the term "contention"	4.3 identify encryption as a way of making information secure
1.4 compare hardware components on the basis of their properties	2.4 identify key factors that can affect server and network performance	3.4 identify potential bottlenecks in network designs	4.4 identify ways of minimising spam and eliminating malware
1.5 identify power consumption and performance as key limits on hardware	2.5 know about permissions and basic server security	3.5 distinguish between local and wide area networks	4.5 identify a firewall and explain its purpose
1.6 identify cost as an issue in performance		3.6 identify protocols used in networks