IB Digital Society 3.4C Characteristics of Computing Networks Key Definitions

The maximum amount of data a network connection can carry in a given time, usually measured in bits per second; higher bandwidth means more data can flow at once.

Scrambling data using a key so that only someone with the correct key can read it, protecting the data both while it is stored and while it is being sent.

The ability of different devices, systems, and networks to work together and exchange data, made possible when they follow shared standards and protocols.

The delay between sending data and it arriving, usually measured in milliseconds; low latency feels instant, while high latency causes noticeable lag even when bandwidth is high.

The physical and organisational foundation a network runs on, including cables, fibre, cell towers, data centres, and the components that connect them, along with who owns and maintains it.

Set of standards and rules that define how all networks format and transmit data.