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Learn about the methods of gathering client requirements such as document analysis, focus groups, interviews, meetings, observation, problem reports, questionnaires, shadowing and suggestion analysis. Based on Unit F160 (Fundamentals of Application Development) for the OCR Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (H029 / H129) (AAQ - Alternative Academic Qualification). Qualification: Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (AAQ) Unit: F160: Fundamentals of Application Development Certificate: Computing: Application Development (H029 / H129) 4.1 - Methods of Gathering Client Requirements Watch on YouTube : Gathering Client Requirements For each of the nine methods of gathering client requirements , you need to know : Its purpose and when it would be used . The type of information and data that can be collected using it. The advantages and disadvantages of using it. How client requirements determine if it would be used. Gathering Client Requirements Methods of Gathering Client Requirements T here are nine methods of gathering client requirements you need to know : Reviewing existing documents (e.g. manuals and reports ) to understand the current system and requirements . Gathering a small group of users or stakeholders to discuss needs , expectations and ideas . Asking stakeholders structured or open-ended questions to collect detailed requirements . Bringing together clients and developers to share information , clarify requirements , and make decisions . Watching users perform tasks to see how they interact with the current system . Using logged issues or complaints from an existing system to identify new requirements . Distributing structured forms with questions to gather requirements from a wide group quickly . Following a user during their normal tasks to gain deeper insights into workflows and needs . Reviewing client or user-submitted ideas and feedback to shape requirements . Q uesto's Q uestions 4.1 - Methods of Gathering Client Requirements: 1. Explain what document analysis , problem reports , shadowing and suggestion analysis are. [8 ] 2. Give two advantages and two disadvantages of two other methods not mentioned in Q1 . [8 ] 3. The video game company that makes the ' Age of the Dragon ' series faced a letdown in their previous release , ' The Guard of the Veil '. They need to ensure that their next game sells a lot of copies and meets user requirements . Justify which methods they should use to gather client requirements and why . [ 5 ] The original 2010 movie version of ' Scott Pilgrim vs. the World ' had Scott end up with Knives Chau instead of Ramona Flowers , but focus groups disliked that he spent the whole movie fighting for her for nothing , so it was changed . D id Y ou K now? 3.2 - Project Planning Tools Topic List 4.2 - Client Requirement Specifications

Learn about network devices such as a switch, router, modem and NIC. Also learn about internet terms and services including DNS and the Cloud. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 3.1b: Network Hardware + The Internet Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : The Internet Network Hardware DNS Servers The Cloud Network Devices When sending data across a network, files are broken down into smaller parts called data packets . Whole files are too large to transfer as one unit so data packets allow data to be transferred across a network quickly . Each packet of data is redirected by routers across networks until it arrives at its destination. Data packets may split up and use alternative routes to reach the destination address. When all the packets have arrived at the destination address the data is reassembled back into the original file. Wireless Access Point A Wireless Access Point provides a link between wireless and wired networks . It creates a wireless local area network that allows WiFi-enabled devices to connect to a wired network. Examples of a wireless access point in a public space could be a WiFi or Bluetooth hotspot , for example a WiFi hotspot in a coffee shop or airport to provide access to the internet. A wireless access point may be a separate device or built into another device such as a router. Router Routers are used to transfer data packets between networks . Routers receive data packets and use the IP address in the packet header to determine the best route to transmit the data. Data is transferred from router to router across the internet towards the destination. A router stores the IP address of each computer connected to it on the network and uses a list called a routing table to calculate the quickest and shortest route to transfer data. Switch A switch is used to connect devices together on a LAN . It receives data packets from a connected node, reads the destination address in the packet header and forwards the data directly to its destination. A switch will generate a list of the MAC addresses of all devices connected to it when it receives data , and must scan for a matching destination address before sending. An alternative to a switch is a hub but a hub is slower and less secure as it forwards a copy of received data to all connected nodes . Network Interface Controller / Card A Network Interface Controller (NIC ) commonly also known as a Network Interface Card is an internal piece of hardware that is required for the computer to connect to a network . The card includes a MAC address which is used when sending data across a LAN . An ethernet cable is plugged into the network card to allow data to be exchanged between the device and a network. A NIC used to be a separate expansion card but is now typically embedded on the motherboar d . Transmission Media Although not technically a device, the communication channel along which data is transferred will affect performance . Three common types of transmission media include: Ethernet cables - used typically on a LAN to transfer data between nodes and hardware such as switches. Examples include Cat5e and Cat6. Fibre Optic cables - very fast but more expensive and fragile cables typically used to send data quickly along a WAN . Data is sent as pulses of light . Coaxial cables - older , slower , copper cables that are not used as much in modern times as they can be affected by electromagnetic interference . The Internet The internet is a global network of interconnected networks . The world wide web (WWW ) is not the same as the internet. It is a way of accessing information , using protocols such as HTTPS to view web pages . Servers provide services on the internet , such as a web server which responds to the web browser (client) request to display a web page . The web server processes the client request to prepare the web page and return it so the web browser can display it to the user . A website must be hosted (stored) on a web server so that it can be accessed by others using the internet . A unique domain name (e.g. csnewbs.com) must be registered with a domain registrar – this is a company that checks the name is valid and not already taken . What is the Internet? DNS Servers A DNS ( Domain Name System ) server stores a list of domain names and a list of corresponding IP addresses where the website is stored. The first thing to understand is that every web page has a domain name that is easy for humans to remember and type in (such as www.csnewbs.com ) as well as a related IP address (such as 65.14.202.32) which is a unique address for the device that the web page is stored on. The steps taken to display a web page: 1. A domain name is typed into the address bar of a browser . 2. A query is sent to the local DNS server for the corresponding IP address of the domain name . www.facebook.com 3. The local DNS server will check if it holds an IP address corresponding to that domain name. If it does it passes the IP address to your browser . 66.220.144.0 4. The browser then connects to the IP address of the server and accesses the web site . If the local DNS server does not hold the IP address then the query is passed to another DNS server at a higher level until the IP address is resolved. If the IP address is found, the address is passed on to DNS servers lower in the hierarchy until it is passed to your local DNS server and then to your browser. Cloud Storage The cloud refers to networks of servers accessed on the internet . Cloud computing is an example of remote service provision . Cloud servers can have different purposes such as running applications , remote processing and storing data . When you store data in 'the cloud', using services such as Google Drive or Dropbox, your data is stored on large servers owned by the hosting company . The hosting company (such as Google) is responsible for keeping the servers running and making your data accessible on the internet . Cloud storage is very convenient as it allows people to work on a file at the same time and it can be accessed from different devices. However, if the internet connection fails , or the servers are attacked then the data could become inaccessible . Cloud Storage Characteristics: ✓ - Huge CAPACITY and you can upgrade your subscription if you need more storage. ✓ / X - Cloud storage is difficult to rank in terms of PORTABILITY , DURABILITY and ACCESS SPEED because it depends on your internet connection. A fast connection would mean that cloud storage is very portable (can be accessed on a smartphone or tablet) but a poor connection would make access difficult . ✓ - Cloud storage is typically free for a certain amount of storage. Users can then buy a subscription to cover their needs - Dropbox allows 2 GB for free or 2 TB for £9.99 a month. Q uesto's Q uestions 3.1b - Network Hardware & Internet: 1a. Explain how a switch works. [ 2 ] 1b. Describe the purpose of a router . [ 2 ] 1c. State what WAP stands for and why it is used . [ 2 ] 1d. State what NIC stands for and why it is required . [ 2 ] 1e. State the differences between the three main types of transmission media . [ 3 ] 2a. State what the internet is and how it is different to the world wide web . [ 2 ] 2b. What is web hosting ? [ 2 ] 3a. What is a DNS server ? [ 2 ] 3b. Describe, using a mix of text and icons / images , how a DNS server is used to display a web page . [5 ] 3c. Describe how a DNS server searches for an IP address if it is not found on the local DNS server . [ 2 ] 4a. Describe what cloud computing is. [ 2 ] 4b. State two advantages and two disadvantages of the cloud . [ 4 ] 3.1a - Network Types & Performance Theory Topics 3.2a - Wired & Wireless Networks

Test your understanding of data structures such as lists (one-dimensional and two-dimensional) and dictionaries. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. top Python - Section 8 Practice Tasks Task One Write a program with a blank list. Use the .append() command to add your three favourite ice-cream flavours to this list and then print the list. Example solution: Task Two Write a program with a list of any 5 numbers. Print the list. Delete the first and third numbers. Print the list. Example solution: Task Three Write a program with a list of three different animals. Write an input line that lets the user type an animal. Add what the user has written to the list and print the list. Example solution: Task Four Sort your list from task two into order. Then print the list. Example solution: Task Five Copy the text on the right and put it into a list named countries. Count the number of countries in the list. Print the longest country. Use a for loop to work out the length of each country. "Egypt", "Angola", " Eritrea " , "Mozambique" , "Ghana" , "Chad" , "Somalia" , "Namibia" , "Sudan" , "Libya" , "Algeria", "Morocco" , "Cameroon" Example solution: Task Six Create a dictionary (see 8c ) that asks users questions about yourself, such as first name, favourite colour or birthday. Let the user answer each question and display the answer if they get it correct. Use the 'Using a Dictionary to Make a Game ' section of 8c to help you. Example solution: ⬅ 8c - Dictionar ies 9a - String Handling ➡

Learn about different types of tools used in the data analysis process including data visualisation, data cleaning and GIS. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 3.5 - Data Analysis Tools Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 The fifth stage of data analysis is to select the most appropriate tools to analyse the collected data. The method(s) selected will depend on the type of project and the established objectives. Data Tables Databases are often split into tables to be easier to update , view and manipulate . For example, a supermarket database may include a table of product information, another table of suppliers and another for actual stock levels. Separating the data into tables allows for simpler editing and also allows for the display of basic patterns . For example, looking at a table of stock levels in a supermarket can quickly show which products need to be ordered in as they are close to selling out. Data tables allow for the most simple form of pattern discovery and are a good method of speedy, short-term data analysis . However they present data in its current format and cannot show change or trends over time - a product may have a high stock level because it is popular and has just been ordered in, rather than because no-one is buying it. A simplified data table for a supermarket. Visualisation of Data Visualising data (by producing a chart or graph of collected data for example) makes it easier for an audience to see trends and patterns . Visualising data, like the bar chart to the right of the supermarket table from the tool above, makes it easier to understand and quicker to interpret . In this example, It is easier to see using the chart that steak pies are low in stock and should be re-ordered soon. A bar chart of the supermarket data table. Trend & Pattern Identification This tool links heavily to visualisation of data in allowing trends and patterns to be viewed as a visual format - such as producing a line graph of last year’s stock sales. Statistical analysis allows data analysts to examine numerical data and, if done correctly, can highlight relationships between different data elements - such as the price of a product and how many have been sold. Discovering links between variables is known as regression analysis . Data Cleaning Data cleaning ensures that any stored data is up-to-date and accurate , in accordance with the Data Protection Act ( 2018 ). Forms of data cleaning include removing customers who have not made a purchase in a certain amount of time (e.g. two years) and periodically checking that user addresses are up to date. Data cleaning would reduce the size of any data table by removing redundant, incorrect or unnecessary data . This would make it easier to work with the data table and would improve the data quality by removing erroneous and irrelevant data. GIS / Location Mapping Geographic Information Systems (GIS ) can be used to add geographic data to any analysis. For example, an organisation can track the geographical location of items or staff e.g. tracking the movement of shipping containers around the world to see production flow. This also works for courier services to see delays and delivery times in real-time . Q uesto's Q uestions 3.5 - Data Analysis Tools: 1. Describe how Fresh Food UK, from the question in 3.4 , could use each of the data analysis tools when trying to determine and present the most profitable stores across the country in the past year . a. Data Tables [3 ] b. Visualisation of Data [3 ] c. Trend & Pattern Identification [3 ] d. Data Cleaning [3 ] e. GIS / Location Mapping [3 ] 3.4 - Stages of Data Analysis Topic List 3.6 - Information Systems

Learn about how images are represented in a computer system, including file size, resolution, colour depth and metadata. Based on the J277 OCR GCSE Computer Science specification (first taught from 2020 onwards). 2.4d: Image Storage Exam Board: OCR Specification: J277 Watch on YouTube : Pixels & Resolution Colour Depth & Metadata Image File Size Bitmap Images Bitmap images are made of pixels - single-colour squares - arranged on a grid . Each pixel is assigned a binary value which represents the colour of that pixel. The quality of a bitmap image depends on the total amount of pixels , this is known at the image resolution . Because it is made of pixels, scaling a bitmap image up will result in a visible loss of quality . Most images on computers are bitmaps, such as photos and screenshots . How to Calculate the File Size of a Bitmap File Size = Resolution x Colour Depth The resolution of an image is the width in pixels multiplied by the height in pixels. The colour depth (also known as bit depth ) is the number of bits that are used to represent each pixel's colour . 1 bit represents 2 colours (0 or 1 / black or white). 2 bits will allow for 4 colours, 3 bits for 8 colours, 4 for 16 etc. A colour depth of 1 byte (8 bits ) allows for 256 different colours . Remember you must multiply the colour depth , not the number of available colours (e.g. 8 not 256). The RGB (Red , Green , Blue ) colour model uses 3 bytes (a byte of 256 red shades , a byte of 256 green shades and a byte of 256 blue shades ) that together can represent 16.7 million different colours. Example Height = 6 bits Resolution = height x width Resolution = 8 x 6 = 48 bits -------------------------- Colour Depth = 1 bit (only 2 colours) -------------------------- File Size = Resolution x Colour Depth File Size = 48 x 1 = 48 bits File Size in bytes = 48 ÷ 8 = 6 bytes File Size in kilobytes = 6 ÷ 1000 = 0.00 6 kilobytes Width = 8 bits Look carefully at the exam question to see if the examiner is expecting the answer in bits, bytes or kilobytes . Always calculate the file size in bits first then: Divide the file size in bits by 8 to convert to bytes . Divide the file size in bytes by 1000 to convert to kilobytes . Metadata for Images Metadata is additional data about a file . Common image metadata includes: Height and w idth in pixels Colour depth Resolution Geolocation Date created Last edited File type Author details Metadata is important, For example, the dimensions must be known so the image can be displayed correctly . Metadata for a picture taken on a smartphone: width in pixels, e.g. 720 height in pixels, e.g. 480 Q uesto's Q uestions 2.4d - Image Storage: 1. Describe how bitmap images use pixels . [ 2 ] 2. Define the terms image resolution and colour depth . [2 ] 3. How many colours can be represented with a colour depth of... a. 1 bit [ 1 ] b . 5 bits [ 1 ] c. 1 byte [ 1 ] 4. How is the file size of an image calculated? [2 ] 5a. An image file has a width of 10 pixels , a height of 8 pixels and a colour depth of 2 . What is the file size in bytes ? [3 ] 5b. An image file has a width of 120 pixels , a height of 120 pixels and a colour depth of 1 . What is the file size in kilobytes ? [3 ] 5c. An image file has a width of 32 pixels , a height of 21 pixels and a colour depth of 1 . What is the file size in bytes ? [3 ] 6. State what is meant by metadata and give three examples of metadata for a graphics file. [ 3 ] 2.4c - Character Storage Theory Topics 2.4e - Sound Storage

The list of topics in the 2020 Eduqas (part of WJEC) GCSE Computer Science specification. Eduqas GCSE Computer Science These pages are based on the Eduqas GCSE Computer Science 2020 specification . 1. Hardware 1.1 - The Central Processing Unit (CPU) 1.2 - The FDE Cycle 1.3 - Primary Storage 1.4 - Secondary Storage 1.5 - Performance 1.6 - Additional Hardware 2. Logical Operators & Boolean 2.1 - Logical Operators 2.2 - Boolean Algebra 3. Networks & Security 3.1 - Network Characteristics 3.2 - Data Packets & Switching 3.3 - Network Topology 3.4 - Network Hardware & Routing 3.5 - Protocols 3.6 - 7-Layer OSI Model 3.7 - The Internet 3.8 - Cyber Threats 3.9 - Protection Against Threats 4. Data 4.1 - Number Systems 4.2 - Signed Binary 4.3 - Binary Calculations 4.4 - Arithmetic Shift 4.5 - Character Sets & Data Types 4.6 - Graphical Representation 4.7 - Sound Representation 4.8 - Compression 5. Data Organisation 5.1 - Data Structures & File Design 6. Operating Systems 6.1 - Operating Systems 6.2 - Utility Software 7. Principles of Programming 7.1 - Language Levels 8. Algorithms & Constructs 8.1 - Programming Principles 8.2 - Understanding Algorithms 8.3 - Writing Algorithms 8.4 - Sorting & Searching Algorithms 8.5 - Validation & Verification 9. Software Development 9.1 - IDE Tools 10. Program Construction 10.1 - Translators 10.2 - Stages of Compilation 10.3 - Programming Errors 11. Technological Issues 11.1 - Impacts of Technology 11.2 - Legislation Component 2 (Programming Exam) Python

Learn how to delay processes using the sleep command in Python. Try practice tasks and learn through text and images. Perfect for students learning GCSE Computer Science in UK schools. top Python 5b - Sleep Using Sleep To pause a program, import sleep from the time library . Type the word sleep followed by the number of seconds that you wish the program to break for in brackets . It must be a whole number . Below is an example of a program that imports the sleep command and waits for 2 seconds between printing: from time import sleep print ( "Hello!" ) sleep(2) print ( "Goodbye!" ) You can implement the sleep command within a for loop to produce an effective timer that outputs each second waited to the screen: You could also use a variable instead of a fixed value with the sleep command such as below: from time import sleep for second in range (1,11): print (second) sleep(1) from time import sleep seconds = int ( input ( "How many seconds should I sleep? " )) print ( "Going to sleep..." ) sleep(seconds) print ( "Waking up!" ) Sleep Task ( Slow Calculator) Create a slow calculator program that needs time to think in between calculations. Print a message to greet the user , then wait 3 seconds and ask them to enter a number . Wait another 3 seconds and ask them to enter a second number . Wait 2 more seconds , print “Thinking…” then 2 seconds later print the total of the two numbers added together . Example solution: ⬅ 5a - Rando m 5c - Date & Time ➡

Learn how to set up a brand new HTML page using Notepad ++. Find out how to format the document ready for tags to be entered. 1. Setting up a HTML document HTML Guide Watch on YouTube: This guide assumes that you have Notepad++ already installed. If you are working at home and need to download Notepad++ then click here . Save as .html file Notepad++ assumes you are writing a text file so you must change the file type . Open Notepad++ Click File then Save As... Change Save as type: from Normal text file (.txt) to Hyper Text Markup Language file (.html) Change File name: to Fanpage Website.html These steps are necessary to set up your HTML web page correctly. Open Notepad ++ and save your file as a .html document. Editor vs. Browser View In newer versions of Notepad++ click on View then View Current File in and choose a browser installed on your computer such as Chrome . Some versions of Notepad++ enable you to view the document in a web browser by selecting Run then an option such as Launch in Chrome . It is good practice to have both Notepad++ and a web browser open at the same time so that you can easily check if any changes have been made correctly. Remember to press the save icon ( ) before you refresh your browser . Don't expect your web browser to show anything yet. Next it is time to add our essential tags for the structure of the web page. HTML Guide 2. Essential Tags

Learn about different types of hardware that allow data to be sent between systems, including router, modem, bridge and WAP. Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification. 1.5: Communication Hardware Exam Board: OCR Specification: 2016 - Unit 1 The devices on this page are used to create or link together networks , allowing data to be sent between computer systems . Hub A hub receives data packets from a connected device and transfers a copy to all connected nodes . Switch A switch receives data packets , processes them and transfers them on to the device s pecifically listed in the destination address of the packet. Modem Modems are used to send data across the telephone network . The telephone lines can only transfer analog signals so a modem is used to convert a computer's digital data into an analog signal . Another modem converts the signal back to a digital format at the receiving end. Router Routers are used to transfer data packets between networks . Data is sent from network to network on the internet towards the destination address listed in the data packet. A router stores the address of each computer on the network and uses routing tables to calculate the quickest and shortest path . Wireless Access Point (WAP) Provides a link between wireless and wired networks . It creates a wireless local area network that allows WiFi enabled devices to connect to a wired network. Combined Device Also known as a hybrid device , this provides the functionality of multiple communication devices (e.g modem, router, switch and/or wireless access point) in a single device . They can be more expensive than a single device but are more adaptable - if the routing part of the device fails it might still be able to function as a switch / wireless access point etc. However, you will see an increased performance from a standalone device rather than a combined one as standalone devices have more complex features (e.g. VPN support). Network Interface Card (Network Adapter) A Network Interface Card (often shorted to NIC ) is an internal piece of hardware that is required for the computer to connect to a network . It used to be a separate expansion card but now it is commonly built directly into the motherboard (and known as a network adapter ). Wireless network interface cards allow wireless network connection. Q uesto's Q uestions 1.5 - Communication Hardware: 1. What is the difference between a hub and a switch ? [2 ] 2. Explain how a modem works. [3 ] 3. Explain the purpose of a router . [2 ] 4. What is a Wireless Access Point (WAP )? [2 ] 5. Describe what is meant by a 'combined device '. Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using a combined device. [3 ] 1.4 - Connectivity 1.6 - Hardware Troubleshooting Topic List

Learn about the decomposition methods used in project planning such as abstraction, pattern recognition, modularisation (top down and bottom up) and parsing of requirements. Based on Unit F160 (Fundamentals of Application Development) for the OCR Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (H029 / H129) (AAQ - Alternative Academic Qualification). Qualification: Cambridge Advanced National in Computing (AAQ) Unit: F160: Fundamentals of Application Development Certificate: Computing: Application Development (H029 / H129) 4.3 - Decomposition Methods Watch on YouTube : Abstraction Pattern Recognition Modularisation Parsing of Requirements Decomposition methods break complex problems or systems into smaller , more manageable parts . This makes development easier to plan , understand and implement . Decomposition also helps reduce errors and improve efficiency , as individual tasks can be more easily tested and debugged. For each of the four decomposition methods ( abstraction , pattern recognition , top-down and bottom-up modularisation and parsing requirements ) you need to know when each method is suitable to use , its advantages and disadvantages , how client requirements affect their selection and how they can be used to visualise application designs . Decomposition Methods Abstraction Abstraction is the process of simplifying a problem by ignoring irrelevant data and focusing only on the most important details . It is used in the early stages of design or planning , when managing complexity in large systems and when creating reusable components . Pattern Recognition Pattern recognition is used to identify similarities or trends in problems or client requirements . This allows for the reuse of existing components and aids in finding solutions for common issues . It is used during the planning or analysis phases and when dealing with similar tasks , inputs , outputs or processes . Modularisation Modularisation refers to the individual components that make up a larger project . In top-down modularisation , a larger system is broken down from a general overview into its most specific parts . The purpose of bottom-up modularisation is to build the system starting with the smaller , detailed components and combining them into larger subsystems . Parsing of Requirements To parse requirements means to systematically break down and analyse client requirements into actionable tasks or functions . It is used at the start of a project to ensure shared understanding between development teams and clients . Q uesto's Q uestions 4.3 - Decomposition Methods: 1. Explain the differences between top-down and bottom-up modularisation . [4 ] 2. Explain when abstraction would be an appropriate decomposition method to use. [3 ] 3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of parsing requirements ? [ 4 ] 4. Give one way each decomposition method can be used in software application development . [ 4 ] Alan Turing and his team used pattern recognition to analyse recurring sequences in encrypted German messages , helping to break the Enigma code , which was a major factor in the Allies’ victory in World War II . D id Y ou K now? 4.2 - Client Requirement Specs Topic List 5.1.1 - Human-Computer Interaction

Learn about the six parts of a data packet and how packet switching works. Based on the 2020 Eduqas (WJEC) GCSE specification. 3.2: Data Packets & Switching Exam Board: Eduqas Specification: 2020 What is a data packet? When sending data across a network, files are broken down into smaller parts called data packets . Whole files are too large to transfer as one unit so data packets allow data to be transferred across a network quickly . Each packet of data is redirected by routers across networks until it arrives at its destination. Data packets may split up and use alternative routes to reach the destination address. When all the packets have arrived at the destination address the data is reassembled back into the original file. Contents of a Data Packet Data packets contain six distinct pieces of data which are used to redirect the packets towards the destination address. Packet Switching vs. Circuit Switching The key difference is that a circuit-switched network sends data along the same route . A packet-switched network sends data packets along different routes . Packet Switching With a packet-switched network the data is split into packets . The data packets are transmitted over a network and may take different routes to its destination. When all the packets have arrived the data is reassembled . The Internet is an example of a packet-switching network. Advantages of Packet Switching: Transmission is more secure as it is harder for a hacker to intercept complete data because it can take different routes . If a network device fails the data packets can take an alternative route . Data packets can be sent efficiently and individually across less busy routes . Disadvantages of Packet Switching: Reassembling the data takes longer because packets may arrive out of order . It is less reliable than circuit switching as some data packets may not reach the destination (this is called packet loss ). Circuit Switching When data is transmitted over a circuit-switched network all of the data takes the same route to the destination address in one continuous stream . The data is quickly reassembled at the destination because it is already in the correct order . The old telephone system is an example of a circuit-switched network. Advantages of Circuit Switching: Reassembling the data is quick because the packets arrive in the order that they were sent. It is more reliable than packet-switching because data is sent in one continuous stream . The transmission is fast and should encounter fewer errors - once the connection has been securely established . Disadvantages of Circuit Switching: Less secure as hackers could intercept the data and more easily access the data as it all takes the same route. Establishing a connection takes time to set up. If any device fails on the route then the whole connection breaks and data transfer will be incomplete. Q uesto's Q uestions 3.2 - Data Packets & Switching: 1. Draw the data packet diagram and label all 6 pieces of information . [ 6 ] 2a. Describe how packet switching works . [3 ] 2b. Describe the advantages of packet switching . [3 ] 2c. Describe the disadvantages of packet switching . [2 ] 3a. Describe how circuit switching works . [3 ] 3b. Describe the advantages of circuit switching . [3 ] 3c. Describe the disadvantages of circuit switching . [3 ] 3.1 - Network Characteristics Theory Topics 3.3 - Network Topology

Learn about crucial laws in place to protect data and privacy, including the Data Protection Act (2018), Computer Misuse Act (1990), RIPA (2000) and the Freedom of Information Act (2000). Based on the 2016 OCR Cambridge Technicals Level 3 IT specification for Unit 2 (Global Information). 4.1 - UK Legislation Specification: 2016 - Unit 2 Exam Board: OCR There are many types of legislation - laws that have been written into use - that concern data storage, protection and the use of information. In an exam, the year the law was introduced must be stated . In 2018 the European Union introduced GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation ) to protect the privacy of data for people in the EU. The UK matched this by updating the Data Protection Act introduced in 1998 to become the Data Protection Act (2018) . This act protects the data of individuals that is stored on computers and processed by organisations. How the Data Protection Act works: Each person who has their data stored is known as a data subject . An employee within an organisation must be appointed as a data controller and it is they who are responsible for registering with the Information Commissioner . The Information Commissioner is the person in the UK who is responsible for managing several laws , most significantly the Data Protection Act. When registering with the Information Commissioner, the organisation's data controller must be clear on exactly: What information they are collecting, Why it is being collected, What the data will be used for . The six principles of the Data Protection Act (2018) state: 1. Data must be collected lawfully and processed fairly. 2. Collected data must only be used for the reasons specified. 3. Data must be relevant and not excessive. 4. Data must be accurate and up-to-date. 5. Data must not be stored for longer than necessary, 6. Data must be stored and processed securely. Actions organisations must take to stick to the Data Protection Act (2018): The company must appoint and register a member of staff to act as the organisation's data controller . The data controller is responsible for communicating with the Information Commissioner and ensuring the principles of the DPA are not broken . There must be strong security measures in practice to protect data from being accessed or transferred without authorisation . This could be in the form of physical or digital protection methods enforced by the company. Staff should be trained so that they are clearly aware of their responsibilities and each principle is adhered to. For example, they should know that data can only be used for the reasons specified when it is collected and should not be passed to others without the permission of the data subject. Data subjects should be given the opportunity to alter their data and make changes if it is incorrect . Data should be deleted when it is no longer needed , so organisations should periodically assess both the accuracy and relevance of storing each data subject's information. Data subjects have the right to make a Subject Access Request (SAR ) and receive a copy of the data which is stored about them. Companies must abide by this request by verifying the user's identify and presenting the data to them securely . Rights of data subjects: Under the Data Protection Act, individuals have a right of access to any information that is stored about them by public bodies . If an individual wishes to access their data they must submit a Subject Access Request (SAR ) which results in the following steps: The organisation's data controller must be written to and told exactly what information is required to access. An administrative fee should be paid to the organisation (but only if the request requires excessive efforts to fulfil ). The organisation must provide the requested information within 40 days . The individual must verify their identity using appropriate ID because only the data subject can request their data . Computer Misuse Act (1990) This act was introduced as computers became cheaper and more common at home and work . The act attempts to stop and punish those who use computers inappropriately . Breaking any of the three principles could result in fines and a jail sentence but only if it can be proved it was done on purpose and not by accident. The Computer Misuse Act (1990 ) includes three main principles : 1. No unauthorised access to data. Example: Hacking a computer system. 2. No unauthorised access to data that could be used for further illegal activities. Example: Accessing personal data to use as blackmail or identity theft. 3. No unauthorised modification of data. Example: Spreading a virus to change data. Data Protection Act (2018) / GDPR Freedom of Information Act (2000) This act allows people to request public authorities to release information . Public authorities include local councils , government departments , universities and hospitals . A freedom of information request must be formally submitted in a letter or email and a reply from the organisation is required within twenty days of receiving the request. A simple freedom of information request might be the average response times of the local ambulance service in the past year. Certain requests will not be accepted , such as if processing the request would be too expensive or if it involves sensitive information protected by the Data Protection Act (2018 ). Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (2000) This act (often shortened to RIPA ) was introduced in response to the increase in both criminal and terrorist activities on the internet, it is used to monitor and access online communication of suspected criminals . If criminal activity is suspected by an individual then this act grants the following powers : Internet Service Providers (ISPs) must provide access to the suspect's online communication , such as emails or social media. Locked or encrypted data may be accessed such as online messages. ISPs could install surveillance equipment or software to track the suspect's online activity . Surveillance may take place to physically track the suspect , e.g. in private vans or by undercover officers in public spaces. Access must be granted to personal information . This act became controversial as its use widened and local councils were using it for minor offences - a Scottish council used the act to monitor dog barking and a council in Cumbria gathered video evidence about who was feeding pigeons . The act has since been changed to only allow the surveillance of crime suspects . Copyright, Designs & Patents Act (1988) This act makes it a criminal offence to copy work that is not your own without the permission of the creator or the copyright holder. This can refer to text, images, music, videos or software. Owning the copyright of an image might not prevent others from copying and using it but this act means that the owner can bring legal proceedings in court to those who have stolen their work . Creators of copyrighted work can take ownership of their work and control how it is used . Others must ask for permission to use the work otherwise the copyright holder can ask for it to be removed or demand a fee for its use . This act specifically prohibits the following actions: Making copies of copyrighted material to sell to others . Importing and downloading illegally copied material (except for personal use). Distributing enough copyrighted material to have a noticeable effect on the copyright holder . Possessing equipment used to copy copyrighted material , as part of a business. Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) Codes of Practice Protection of Freedoms Act (2012) There are seven sections to this act, revolving around the protection of personal data . It was introduced because there was little legislation about biometric data , and to update older laws . IT-related sections are summarised below: Part 1 - States how biometric data (e.g. fingerprints and DNA) is stored, handled and collected. For example, parents must give consent before their child gives biometric data to a school. Also, biometric data for suspects of minor offences is deleted after the case is closed. Part 2 - Creates new regulation for CCTV and ANPR (automatic number plate recognition) use. Part 5 - The Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) was created to run background checks on anyone wanting to work with children or vulnerable people. Part 6 - Extends the Freedom of Information Act (2000) allowing for wider requests to be made . The information commissioner is the senior government official in charge of the country's freedom of information requests and the protection of personal data . The Information Commissioner's Office describes itself as "The UK’s independent authority set up to uphold information rights in the public interest, promoting openness by public bodies and data privacy for individuals". The ICO publishes codes of practices about various data protection and privacy topics , usually related to explaining the Data Protection Act . For example, the ICO has a code of practice regarding how organisations should share data and another code of practice about the use of CCTV . The ICO offers help and support to both individuals (such as giving access to students to their exam results) and organisations (such as support with legal electronic marketing). Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (2003) This law (which was updated in 2011 ) regulates how organisations can communicate with individuals . Companies must stick to the following rules: It is an offence to directly contact an individual unless they have specifically opted-in to receive communication. This is commonly managed by using tick boxes on online stores where you must opt-in to receiving promotional material. Companies must clearly state who they are when contacting customers, such as displaying the phone number when calling - and not 'hiding' the number. Organisations must explain how cookies are used on their website . Companies must only contact customers through communication channels that the customer has previously permitted . This can be done with tick boxes when signing up. Customers can select or de-select methods such as email , phone calls and text messages . The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) is responsible for this regulation and can fine companies that commit unsolicited communication up to £500,000. It is the customer who benefits and is protected by this regulation. Equality Act (2010) The government states that "The Equality Act legally protects people from discrimination in the workplace and in wider society." Discrimination because of protected characteristics such as gender , race , religion , age and disability are specifically punishable by legal action. The aim of the act is to end discrimination in the workplace and open up fair opportunities for every employee regardless of behavioural or physical characteristics that are outside of their control . Within a company, the Equality Act protects staff by stating protected characteristics should not be a factor in an employee's promotion or change of role. Information must be presented in a format accessible to all staff . Q uesto's Q uestions 4.1 - UK Legislation: 1. Create a flashcard or PowerPoint slide for each legislation above. Explain the purpose of the legislation , its main principles and whom it affects . [5 each ] 3.6 - Information Systems Topic List 4.2 - Global Legislation