IBDP Computer Science A2.3 Data transmissions SL Paper 1 - New Syllabus

(a) Answer:

Any two of the following technologies may be used to provide a VPN:

• VPN tunnelling through a server.
• A VPN-aware router and firewall.
• Encryption protocols, such as IPSec, SSL or TLS.
• VPN client software installed on the employee’s computer.

(b) Answer:

Any two of the following factors may affect the speed of data transmission:

• Physical distance: A greater distance between the sender and receiver can increase transmission time.
• Number of network devices crossed: Data passing through more routers or other network devices may take longer to reach its destination.
• Performance of network devices: The performance of devices between the sender and receiver can affect transmission speed. For example, a weak processor may slow the processing of data.
• Quality and characteristics of network equipment: The type and quality of the router or transmission medium, such as cable, fibre or wireless, can affect the speed.
• Number of network users: A large number of users making demands on the network at the same time can reduce the available bandwidth and slow transmission.

Other reasonable factors include the type or strength of encryption used, server bandwidth, the size of the user data and the type of protocol used.

(c) Answer:

Data compression reduces the size of a file or the amount of data that needs to be transmitted. This can reduce the number of packets that have to be sent across the network.

As a result, the data takes less time to transmit and consumes less network bandwidth. This can also result in significant cost savings, particularly when large amounts of data are transmitted.

(d) Answer:

Encryption scrambles readable plaintext so that it is converted into ciphertext. The encrypted data cannot be understood in its original form unless it is decrypted using the correct key.

Therefore, even if an unauthorized person intercepts the data, they cannot easily read or understand its contents without the required decryption key.

(e) Answer:

A firewall monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic. It checks the traffic against a defined set of security rules and decides whether specific traffic should be allowed or blocked.

A firewall can therefore restrict access to parts of a network and help prevent unauthorized access to confidential data.

A software firewall may be installed on a computer to monitor incoming and outgoing traffic and control the behaviour of applications. It can filter or block traffic from unsecured, suspicious or blacklisted applications.

A hardware firewall can be installed between the network and gateway. It regulates traffic through ports and prevents suspicious data packets from passing through.

(f) Answer:

Working from home can have both positive and negative social impacts on employees.

Positive impacts:

• Flexibility and agility: Employees may have greater control over when and where they work, making it easier to manage personal responsibilities alongside work.
• Increased productivity: Employees may experience fewer interruptions than in a traditional workplace, allowing them to concentrate more effectively on their work.
• Increased motivation and autonomy: Greater independence and control over working arrangements can improve motivation and give employees a stronger sense of responsibility.
• Improved health and wellbeing: Employees may experience less stress associated with commuting and may have more time for personal activities.
• Better work/life balance: Employees may find it easier to spend time with family and manage responsibilities outside work.

Negative impacts:

• Not all employees are suited to working from home: Some employees may work more effectively in a traditional workplace where direct support and interaction are available.
• Isolation: Employees may have less face-to-face interaction with colleagues, which can create feelings of loneliness or isolation.
• Distractions at home: Family members, household responsibilities or other activities can interfere with an employee’s concentration and productivity.
• Negative impact on mental health: Reduced social interaction or difficulty separating work from personal life may negatively affect an employee’s wellbeing.
• Not all jobs are suitable for home working: Some jobs require employees to be physically present at a workplace, so remote working may not provide the same benefits to everyone.

The impact can depend on the individual employee and the nature of the work. For example, working from home may improve interaction with family, but family responsibilities may also become a distraction from work.