Question 1

What is NCEA AS 91377 about?

Accepted Answer

This standard asks you to demonstrate understanding of how local area networks (LANs) work — the systems that connect computers and devices in schools, offices, or homes. You need to understand the basic components (like switches and cables), explain why particular technologies are used, describe how devices communicate with each other, and explain how the network controls that communication.

Question 2

What do students need to do for AS 91377?

Accepted Answer

1. Describe networking concepts like what a LAN is, how it works, bandwidth, and IP addressing 2. Explain why specific components (switches, servers, routers, cables) are chosen for a LAN and how they work together 3. Explain how different connection technologies (wired, fibre, wireless) allow devices to function in the network 4. Describe the access control method used in Ethernet (the standard way LANs operate) and how it manages traffic between devices

Question 3

What's the difference between Achieved, Merit, and Excellence for AS 91377?

Accepted Answer

Achieved: You describe the main LAN components, explain basic networking concepts, and describe why some technologies are used and how Ethernet access control works. Merit: You compare different types of LANs (peer-to-peer vs client/server), explain the TCP/IP layers and how they work in a LAN, and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of different cable, fibre, and wireless technologies. Excellence: You discuss IP addressing schemas in detail including the real consequences of static versus dynamic addresses, and explain how Ethernet's access control method actually manages and controls traffic on the network.

Question 4

What mistakes do students typically make in AS 91377?

Accepted Answer

1. Not explaining the 'why' behind component choices — simply naming components without linking them to what they do or what network need they meet 2. Confusing or mixing up peer-to-peer networks with client/server networks, or not understanding when each would be used 3. Treating cable, fibre, and wireless technologies as equivalent without discussing real trade-offs like speed, cost, reliability, or distance limitations

Local area networks

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