4.2 Network Issues and Communication

2026 Syllabus Objectives

  • Security issues regarding data transfer: Privacy and confidentiality of data transfer
  • Passwords: Avoiding password interception by using up to date anti-spyware and regularly changing passwords
  • The differences between strong and weak passwords
  • Other authentication methods: Including: zero login, biometric methods, magnetic stripes, smart cards, physical tokens, electronic tokens
  • Anti-malware software: Including the use of anti-malware and anti-virus software
  • The operation of removing/quarantining viruses using up to date software
  • Scanning the storage media used transfer data
  • Scanning the data/software when downloading
  • Electronic conferencing: Characteristics, uses, advantages and disadvantages of video-conferencing, audio-conferencing, web-conferencing
  • The hardware, software and network connection required to set up each type of electronic conference

🔐 Network Security Overview

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Networks such as the internet present significant security challenges compared to intranets. An intranet operates behind a firewall, providing protection against hackers (unauthorised users) and viruses. Information on intranets is typically stored on local servers, making it more secure from external threats.

When using networks like the internet, which operate on an international scale, security becomes more complex. This section focuses on four critical areas of network security:

  • User ID
  • Passwords
  • Encryption
  • Authentication techniques

👤 User ID and Privileges

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What is a User ID?

A user ID is an identification string that assigns specific privileges to a user upon successful login. The user ID determines what actions and resources the user can access on the network.

Types of Privileges

Administrator Privilege:

  • Highest level of access
  • Ability to set passwords
  • Can delete files from the server
  • Full system control

User Privilege:

  • Limited access
  • May only access their own work area
  • Restricted system permissions

📌 The user ID system ensures that different users have appropriate levels of access based on their role and responsibilities.

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