The Internet and Emerging Technologies
What you must know
Understand how the internet works: ISPs, IP addressing, DNS, packet switching, HTTP/HTTPS. Learn about the World Wide Web, browsers, URLs, search engines and cloud computing (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS). Know emerging technologies: artificial intelligence and machine learning, the Internet of Things, blockchain, virtual and augmented reality, 5G and robotics. Be able to discuss benefits and drawbacks such as cost, privacy, digital divide and dependence on connectivity.
Traps candidates fall into
- Confusing cloud storage (files) with cloud computing (processing power rented remotely).
- Saying AI "thinks" like a human - it finds patterns in data.
- Ignoring that IoT devices create security risks if poorly protected.
- Assuming blockchain is only for cryptocurrency - it is a shared, tamper-resistant ledger.
- Overlooking the digital divide when praising new technology.
Rule of thumb
For any emerging technology, give one benefit, one drawback and one condition for safe or fair use - examiners reward balanced answers.
Worked example
"Discuss smart home devices." Benefits: remote control, energy savings, convenience. Drawbacks: hacking risk, reliance on internet, cost. Condition: strong passwords and updates. This balanced structure scores well.