IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 Definitions Worksheet: 5.3 Cyber Security and 6.1 Automated Systems (Modules 553–577)
Name:
Date:
Class:
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Key terms
Write what each term means, in your own words.
1
access levels
2
anti-spyware
3
proxy server
4
SSL
5
SSL handshake
6
countermeasure
7
threat + process + aim + solution
8
automated system
9
stored value
Answer Key
IGCSE Computer Science Paper 1 · Modules 553–577 · Student wording will vary for definitions
1access levels — Settings that give each user different rights to data: no access, read only, read/write or full control. Users only see and change what their role needs, protecting confidentiality and integrity.
2anti-spyware — Software that scans for and removes spyware, and blocks programs that secretly monitor the user, such as key loggers. It can scan on demand or protect in real time.
3proxy server — A server between a user's device and the internet. It receives the user's web requests, passes them to the web server for the user, then returns the response. Used in schools and companies.
4SSL — Secure Socket Layer: a security protocol that encrypts data between a browser and web server, so intercepted data cannot be read. Used for logins and payments. TLS is its successor.
5SSL handshake — Browser asks the server for its digital certificate, checks it is genuine, then both agree an encryption key to begin a secure session.
6countermeasure — A solution chosen to stop a specific threat, such as a firewall for hacking, SSL for interception or anti-malware for malware, plus an explanation of how it works.
7threat + process + aim + solution — A full-mark answer names the threat, says how it works and what it aims to do, then names a solution and explains how it stops the threat, using 'because' to link each point.
8automated system — A system that senses its surroundings, decides what to do and acts, without a person controlling each step. For example, an automatic door.
9stored value — A pre-set value, such as a target temperature, kept in the microprocessor. It compares each digital sensor reading with it to decide if the reading is too high, too low or on target.