The ping command
A command that sends a small test message to another device and reports whether it replied and how long the reply took in milliseconds. Example: ping 8.8.8.8
Understanding The ping command in ACARA Digital Technologies Years 9–10
What it does: ping works with a domain name too. DNS turns the name into an IP address, then the test message is sent. This message means no reply came back in time. The device may be offline, unreachable or blocking pings. Reply time is how long the round trip took, shown in milliseconds (ms). Megabytes measure data size. Replies show that the device can be reached. They say nothing about how secure it is. An IPv4 address needs four numbers separated by dots, so an incomplete address makes the ping fail.
Common mistakes: Ping reports reply time in milliseconds (ms), not gigabytes. It should be time=13ms. Ping needs a domain name or IP address, not a full URL. Remove http:// and write ping www.example.com.
Free printable worksheet with full answer key — or add this module to a class and your students practise it interactively.
This module's key terms are also in a printable crossword (Modules 12–34) and word search (Modules 12–55).
Take this worksheet further — free with Cloodit
Each concept is reinforced from every angle — learned, then applied, then tested.
Cloodit turns curriculum-aligned coding content into journeys students work through one biome at a time.
Over 100 of them, across seven natural biomes.
Turns their work into revision material ready for Flash Cards and Exam study.
Live, competitive practice for the start of the lesson or a teacher-led lesson finisher.
Honour your top performers, or encourage a student who's trying hard — ready to print in seconds.
Quick Questions
Match the Pairs
Key Term
ping addressFill in the Blanks
Spot the Error
Student with a class code? Join your class →