A school has a local area network (LAN) connecting its computers and peripheral devices. The LAN also provides access to the internet.

Role of a router

• Controls the flow of data in the network 1 mark
• Inspects address of data packets 1 mark
• Directs to the appropriate network path/selects a path between networks (by inspecting address of data packets) 1 mark
• Securely transmits data packets (across that path toward the intended destination) 1 mark

Award maximum 3 marks

• Malicious software/spyware/malware/viruses

  • Attacking the system 2 marks

• The type of connection

  • Valid outline for the slow down (depending on the type of connection) 2 marks

There are many types of internet connection: wireless connections, wireless hotspots, mobile internet, broadband connections, fixed wireless and satellite connection, cable, DSL

• Hardware malfunction

  • Internet speed can considerably slow down if modem-router configuration is not correct/updated 2 marks

• External factors

  • During the peak hours of daytime the most visited websites encounter more network traffic than what has been anticipated 2 marks

Accept examples. For example, too many students try to connect to an e-learning site at the same time.

• Preventing unauthorized access/No access without user names/passwords; which should be regularly changed/made difficult to guess; 2 marks

• Data should be encrypted; Allowing only those with decrypting code access; 2 marks

• Teachers/students should be trained for safe practices; to create a risk-conscious/security-aware culture within the school; 2 marks

• Installation of virus checkers/spyware software; to prevent damage to data files or the system/to prevent data being extracted from the files/system; 2 marks

Accept appropriate measures such as physical security measures/access control/data security/network and communication security/user awareness and education, etc.