Refreshed scheme (2026)
Computing systems: Connecting networks
Exploring how local networks connect to the Internet and how people use the World Wide Web.
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Computing systems: Connecting networks
You're viewing: 2026 Scheme. This is the updated scheme for September 2026 onwards. Explore the current scheme
Unit outcomes
Pupils who are secure will be able to:
- Identify the components of a network and describe the roles of routers and servers.
- Identify examples of local and global networks.
- Explain how the internet connects networks around the world.
- Explain the difference between a website and a web page.
- Recognise that websites are made up of different types of data.
- Describe the pathway data takes when a website is accessed.
- Use a search engine and links to find information on the World Wide Web.
- Identify ways people communicate and work together using networks.
- Explain why some areas of a network are restricted.
- Explain how permissions and usernames and passwords allow users to access different parts of a network.
Suggested prior learning
Computing systems: Connecting devices
Get startedLessons
Refreshed
Lesson 1: Components in a network
Refreshed
Lesson 2: Local and global networks
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Lesson 3: The World Wide Web
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Lesson 4: Search engines
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Lesson 5: Communication and collaboration
Key skills
Key skills
Key knowledge
Related content
Resources
Unit resources
Computing
Knowledge organiser – Computing Y4: Computing systems: Connecting networks
Aimed at pupils, two pages providing key facts and definitions from the unit ‘Connecting networks’.
Computing
Vocabulary display – Computing Y4: Computing systems: Connecting networks
A display version of the vocabulary from the unit 'Connecting networks'.
Cross-curricular opportunities
- English: Spoken language: Using discussion to explain ideas about networks and develop accurate computing vocabulary when describing components and connections.
- History: Exploring how the internet developed over time and considering the changes that led to today’s global network.
- Science: Working scientifically: Asking effective questions and using online searches to find and check information from different sources.
- RSE & PSHE: Relationships education – Online safety and awareness: Exploring how usernames, passwords and permissions protect private information and restrict access to online content.
- RSE & PSHE: Health and wellbeing – Wellbeing online: Considering the benefits of online communication and collaboration while recognising the importance of using online tools safely and appropriately.
- British values: Mutual respect; Democracy: Developing mutual respect through collaborative discussion and decision-making, and democracy through sharing views and voting on ideas.