lesson

The internet is not one computer

1 · Learn

The internet connects many networks. Data can travel through several connections on its way between devices. The web is one service that uses the internet to share linked pages.

A school network can share local resources even without internet access. Conversely, opening a public web page can involve a device outside school. A connection does not grant permission to see private files.

Local networkConnections between networksInternet servicesAccess rules
Key words and supplied examples.

2 · Worked example

I distinguish a printer shared inside school from a public website. Both involve communication, but only the second necessarily reaches a public web service.

3 · Your turn

Are all files on a school network automatically public internet pages?

Check your answer

No. Local files can have restricted access and may never be published on the web.

4 · Apply your learning

Draw a labelled paper model with two local networks connected together. Trace a pretend message and mark where permissions are needed.

Adult guidance and safety

Use an adult-approved offline or school-managed application and invented non-personal data. Do not change real network settings, publish recordings or upload others' images. Follow paper models with practical work in a suitable tool and check saved files reopen.

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Interactive activity

Year 4 Computing learning routine

H5P
Which routine will help you learn well in Year 4 Computing?

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