Year 11 - Networks Starter

Common Protocols and Layers

Review the purpose of key network protocols and how data moves through the TCP/IP layers.

Today's Big Idea

Protocols are rules for communication, and layers break networking into smaller jobs so the whole system is easier to manage.

Protocols + TCP/IP stack

Activity 1: Match the Protocol

Drag each protocol to the correct purpose.

TCP
IP
HTTP
HTTPS
FTP
POP
IMAP
SMTP
Protocol Purpose
Provides error-free transmission and helps split data into numbered packets.
Routes packets across a WAN using source and destination IP addresses.
Requests and delivers web pages without added encryption.
Requests and delivers web pages with encryption and authentication.
Transfers files between computers, typically over a wide area network.
Retrieves email to a device and removes it from the mail server.
Keeps email on the server so messages stay synchronised across devices.
Sends outgoing email from a client to a server or between servers.

Activity 2: Build the TCP/IP Stack

Place each layer in the correct order from top to bottom.

Network layer: IP adds source and destination IP addresses so routers can direct packets.
Application layer: protocols such as HTTP, HTTPS and FTP are used by software.
Link layer: frames travel across the physical connection using MAC addresses.
Transport layer: TCP establishes the connection, adds sequence numbers and port numbers.

Top layer

Drop layer here

Second layer

Drop layer here

Third layer

Drop layer here

Bottom layer

Drop layer here

Activity 3: Choose the Best Protocol

Pick the protocol that best fits each scenario.

A banking website is asking a user to enter a password and account details.

An email app is sending a new message from the user's device to the mail server.

A student wants the same inbox to stay updated on their phone and laptop.

An old email client downloads messages to one device and removes them from the server.

A technician needs to upload a website backup file to a remote server.

A connection needs packets numbered and checked so data arrives reliably and in order.

Download PDF Evidence

Create a record of your starter activity responses.