Question 1: Explain in your own words what a 'firewall' does in a computer network.

Answer: A firewall monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on security rules, helping to block malicious access.

Question 2: Name two common types of cyber threats that can affect a network and briefly describe each.

Answer: Virus: Malicious software that can damage or disrupt systems. Phishing: Attempts to trick users into revealing sensitive information via fake emails or websites.

Question 3: Describe the purpose of encryption in network security.

Answer: Encryption converts data into a coded form so that only authorized parties can read it, protecting information from being intercepted by hackers.

Question 4: Identify three security measures that can help protect a home Wi-Fi network.

Answer: Using a strong password, enabling WPA3 encryption, and disabling WPS are three measures to secure a Wi-Fi network.

Question 5: Complete the truth table for an AND gate with inputs A and B and output C.

Answer: A B | C 0 0 | 0 0 1 | 0 1 0 | 0 1 1 | 1

Question 6: Draw a logic circuit that represents an OR gate connected to a NOT gate with two inputs. Label all parts clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would show two inputs feeding into an OR gate, with the output of the OR gate connected to the input of a NOT gate, resulting in the final output. All gates should be labeled.

Question 7: A network uses a security measure where access is granted only if both a username and password are correct. Which logic gate best represents this process? Draw the logic circuit.

Answer: An AND gate. The circuit should show two inputs (username and password) feeding into an AND gate, with the output indicating access granted.

Question 8: Describe what a phishing attack might look like and how a user can identify it.

Answer: A phishing attack might involve receiving an email that looks like it’s from a trusted source asking for personal information. Users can identify it by checking for suspicious sender addresses, spelling mistakes, or unexpected links.

Question 9: Explain why it is important to regularly update software and security patches on your devices.

Answer: Regular updates fix security vulnerabilities, protect against new threats, and improve the overall security of devices.

Question 10: Sketch a simple diagram of a network showing a computer, a router, and a firewall. Label each component clearly.

Answer: A correct sketch would show the computer connected to the router, with the firewall placed between the internet and the router, indicating its protective role.