2024 Edexcel IGCSE Information and Communication (ICT) Practice Paper with Answers

A router is a hardware device designed to connect different networks (such as a local home network and the internet) and determine the best path for forwarding data packets between them.

1 mark for the correct option (c). Reject all other options.

Solid-state drives (SSDs) utilize flash memory, which has no moving parts. This makes them highly durable against physical shocks, very fast, and ideal for rugged outdoor videography.

1 mark for the correct option (b). Reject all other options.

Latency refers to the time delay or lag experienced during the transmission of data over a network, usually measured in milliseconds.

1 mark for the correct option (c). Reject all other options.

Biometric characteristics (like fingerprints or facial structures) are highly unique to the individual, making them extremely difficult to share, copy, or guess compared to traditional alphanumeric passwords.

1 mark for the correct option (c). Reject all other options.

Software as a Service (SaaS) is a model where applications are hosted by a service provider and made available to customers over the internet, typically accessed via a web browser.

1 mark for the correct option (c). Reject all other options.

A screen reader is an accessibility tool that reads aloud the text displayed on the screen using a speech synthesizer, assisting visually impaired individuals in navigating digital interfaces.

1 mark for the correct option (b). Reject all other options.

HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) encrypts the communication channel between a client and web server using SSL/TLS, preventing interception of sensitive information.

1 mark for the correct option (b). Reject all other options.

Improperly disposed of electronic devices can leak toxic heavy metals (such as lead, mercury, and cadmium) into soil and nearby water sources, leading to ecological contamination.

1 mark for the correct option (b). Reject all other options.

To calculate the maximum volume of data transferred: First, find the total number of megabits transferred in 8 seconds: \(100 \text{ Mbps} \times 8 \text{ s} = 800 \text{ Mb}\). Second, convert Megabits to Megabytes by dividing by 8 (since 1 Byte = 8 bits): \(800 \text{ Mb} / 8 = 100 \text{ MB}\).

Award 1 mark for the correct answer (b). Reject other choices as they represent incorrect calculations: choice a represents dividing 100 by 8; choice c represents failing to convert bits to bytes; choice d represents multiplying by 8 again instead of dividing.

Solid State Drives (SSDs) use flash memory and have no moving parts. This makes them significantly more durable and resistant to physical shock than Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), which rely on spinning magnetic platters and read/write heads. This physical durability makes SSDs ideal for portable devices like laptops.

Award 1 mark for the correct option (c). Reject A because HDDs are generally cheaper per gigabyte. Reject B because HDDs typically offer larger maximum capacities at lower price points. Reject D because SSDs have faster read and write speeds, not slower.

A barcode scanner/reader is an input device designed to read printed barcodes, decode the data contained in the barcode, and send the data to a computer.

1 mark for identifying a barcode scanner or barcode reader. Accept: hand-held scanner, flatbed scanner. Reject: scanner (too vague), RFID reader.

In a bus topology, all nodes are connected to a single main cable, known as the backbone or bus.

1 mark for bus topology (or bus).

A computer worm is a standalone malware computer program that replicates itself in order to spread to other computers. Unlike a virus, it does not need to attach itself to an existing program or rely on human intervention to spread.

1 mark for worm / computer worm. Reject: virus, Trojan horse.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a standard network protocol used for the transfer of computer files between a client and a server on a computer network.

1 mark for FTP or File Transfer Protocol.

Disposing of electronic waste (e-waste) in landfill sites causes toxic heavy metals (like lead, mercury, and cadmium) to leach into the ground, polluting the soil and nearby water sources.

1 mark for a valid environmental impact, such as: toxic chemicals/metals leaking into soil/water, release of toxic greenhouse gases if incinerated, or visual pollution. Reject: 'takes up space' (not specific to digital devices).

Disk defragmentation utility software reorganizes fragmented data on a hard drive so that files are stored in contiguous sectors, which speeds up file access.

1 mark for defragmenter, disk defragmenter, or defragmentation. Reject: disk cleanup, formatting.

A Media Access Control (MAC) address is a unique identifier assigned to a network interface controller (NIC) for use as a network address in communications within a network segment.

1 mark for MAC address / Media Access Control address. Reject: IP address.

Encryption is the process of converting information or data into a code, especially to prevent unauthorized access. Authorized users can decrypt the message back into plain text using a key.

1 mark for encryption. Reject: cryptography, password.

RAM is volatile memory. It requires a constant electrical current to maintain its data. When power is lost, all data stored in RAM is erased.

Award 1 mark for identifying RAM or Random Access Memory. Reject ROM.

In a star topology, each node is connected directly to a central hub or switch. If one cable fails, only that device is disconnected from the network.

Award 1 mark for star topology or star network.

Ransomware encrypts the user's data or locks the system, then displays a message demanding a fee (ransom) to decrypt the files.

Award 1 mark for ransomware. Reject general answers like malware or virus.

Cloud storage allows employees to access files remotely from any device connected to the internet, improving flexibility and collaboration.

Award 1 mark for a valid advantage: accessibility from anywhere with internet, ease of sharing, automatic backups, or reduced physical storage hardware costs.

Electronic components often contain toxic substances like lead, mercury, and cadmium. If buried in a landfill, these can leach into the soil and surrounding water systems.

Award 1 mark for a valid environmental issue: leakage of toxic heavy metals/chemicals into soil or water, resource depletion from not recycling, or space consumed by electronic waste.

A trackball mouse remains stationary and allows the user to rotate a ball to move the cursor, which requires less fine motor control than a standard mouse. Other valid answers include a foot mouse or eye-gaze tracker.

Award 1 mark for identifying a valid device: trackball, foot mouse, sip-and-puff device, or eye-gaze/eye-tracker. Reject standard mouse or joystick.

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) dynamically assigns IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to each device on a network so they can communicate.

Award 1 mark for DHCP or Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol.

Modern smartphones use physiological biometric features such as fingerprints or facial geometry (facial recognition) to securely authenticate and unlock the device.

Award 1 mark for fingerprint, iris, or face / facial recognition. Reject voice recognition (which is behavioral) or PIN/password.

IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) retrieves email messages from a mail server and keeps them synchronised across multiple devices, so any changes made on one device are reflected on all others.

Award 1 mark for: IMAP or Internet Message Access Protocol. Reject: POP, POP3, SMTP, HTTP.

Biometrics or biometric authentication uses unique physiological characteristics (like iris patterns, facial recognition, or fingerprints) to grant access to secure digital systems.

Award 1 mark for: Biometrics or Biometric authentication or Biometric security. Reject: physical keys, passwords, pin codes, or specific body parts like 'eye' or 'face' on their own.

SSDs use flash memory to store data and do not contain moving parts, unlike HDDs which rely on spinning platters and read/write heads. This lack of moving parts makes SSDs highly resistant to physical vibration and shock, ensuring that the rugged laptop can survive being bumped or dropped in harsh field environments without data corruption.

Award 1 mark for identifying a relevant characteristic of SSDs (e.g., no moving parts / more robust).
Award 1 mark for explaining why this is suitable for the scenario (e.g., less likely to suffer physical damage or lose data when dropped during field work).

HTTPS uses encryption protocols (such as SSL/TLS) to secure the connection between the user's web browser and the web server. This ensures that any data entered, such as usernames and passwords, is scrambled and cannot be read by unauthorized users if intercepted.

Award 1 mark for identifying that HTTPS encrypts data / provides secure communication.
Award 1 mark for explaining the impact (e.g., prevents eavesdroppers from reading sensitive credentials / protects data integrity).

Biometric features, such as fingerprints or facial geometry, are unique to each student and cannot be lost or forgotten like a physical magnetic stripe card. Additionally, students cannot pass their biometric data to a friend to scan on their behalf, preventing fraudulent attendance registration (buddy punching).

Award 1 mark for identifying a key feature of biometrics (e.g., unique to the individual / cannot be shared or lost).
Award 1 mark for linking this to attendance recording (e.g., ensures the actual student is physically present / prevents buddy register systems).

Cloud storage depends entirely on network connectivity. If a user experiences an internet outage, they will be unable to access their backed-up files, and if they have a slow connection speed, uploading large backup datasets can take an impractical amount of time.

Award 1 mark for identifying a limitation of cloud storage (e.g., reliance on internet connection / upload bandwidth limitations).
Award 1 mark for explaining the consequence (e.g., cannot access backups during an outage / very slow recovery of large files).

By conducting meetings online using videoconferencing tools, employees and clients do not need to commute or fly to a central physical location. This directly decreases the consumption of fossil fuels and lowers the business's overall greenhouse gas emissions.

Award 1 mark for identifying the reduction in travel requirements (e.g., no commuting / fewer flights needed).
Award 1 mark for explaining the environmental benefit (e.g., lower carbon emissions / reduced fossil fuel consumption).

Unlike LCD screens which require a continuous backlight, OLED screens have organic light-emitting diodes where each pixel produces its own light. When displaying black, individual pixels can be turned off completely, saving significant battery power and providing a superior contrast ratio.

Award 1 mark for identifying a characteristic of OLED screens (e.g., individually lit pixels / no backlight required / true blacks).
Award 1 mark for explaining the direct benefit to smartphones (e.g., improves battery life when using dark mode / enables a thinner screen design).

Wired Ethernet connections transmit data through physical cables, which are not prone to interference from walls or other wireless devices. This results in lower and more consistent latency (ping), which prevents lag and ensures smoother gameplay during online multiplayer games.

Award 1 mark for identifying a feature of wired connections (e.g., lower latency / no signal interference / more consistent bandwidth).
Award 1 mark for linking this to gaming performance (e.g., prevents lag / stops disconnection issues during live play).

A firewall monitors data packets traveling between the internet and the internal LAN. By applying a set of security rules, it can identify and block suspicious incoming traffic or unauthorized external requests while still permitting legitimate business data to pass through safely.

Award 1 mark for identifying the core function of a firewall (e.g., inspecting data packets / filtering incoming/outgoing traffic).
Award 1 mark for explaining how this protects the network (e.g., blocks hackers / prevents unauthorized entry of malicious traffic into the LAN).

SSDs use flash memory and have no moving parts. This makes them highly durable and less prone to physical damage or data loss if the portable laptop is dropped or bumped during transit.

Award 1 mark for identifying that SSDs have no moving parts / are shock resistant. Award 1 mark for linking this to why it benefits a portable device (e.g., reduced risk of drive failure or data loss when dropped).

HTTPS encrypts the communication channel between the user's web browser and the bank's web server. This ensures that sensitive information, such as login credentials or account transactions, cannot be read or understood if intercepted by unauthorized third parties.

Award 1 mark for identifying that HTTPS encrypts/secures data during transmission. Award 1 mark for explaining the impact (e.g., preventing interception or unauthorized reading of sensitive banking information).

A firewall acts as a barrier between the LAN and external networks. It inspects all incoming and outgoing data packets and blocks any traffic that does not meet specified security criteria, preventing hackers from gaining entry.

Award 1 mark for explaining that it monitors/inspects network traffic. Award 1 mark for explaining that it blocks unauthorised traffic based on pre-defined security rules.

Cloud storage depends entirely on a stable network connection. If the user experiences an internet outage, they will be unable to access, view, or edit their stored files until connectivity is restored.

Award 1 mark for identifying the dependency on an active internet connection. Award 1 mark for explaining the consequence (e.g., inability to access or download files offline).

Digital devices contain hazardous heavy metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium. When these devices are disposed of in normal landfills instead of being properly recycled, these toxic substances can leach into the surrounding soil and water table, harming ecosystems.

Award 1 mark for identifying that electronic devices contain toxic chemicals or heavy metals. Award 1 mark for explaining how inappropriate disposal causes environmental harm (e.g., leaching into soil/water supplies or contributing to e-waste accumulation).

Latency is the time delay for data to travel from the player's device to the game server. High latency results in 'lag,' meaning the player's movements or actions take too long to update on screen, causing a sluggish and unplayable experience.

Award 1 mark for defining high latency as a delay in data transmission. Award 1 mark for explaining its impact on gameplay (e.g., lag, delayed responses, or actions being out of sync with other players).

When a document is scanned, it is initially saved as an image file. OCR software analyzes the shapes of the characters within that image and converts them into text characters, allowing users to edit or search the document in a word processor.

Award 1 mark for stating that OCR converts images/scans of text into digital characters. Award 1 mark for explaining the benefit (e.g., allowing the document to be edited, copied, or searched).

Phishing emails often lack personalization, addressing the recipient with a generic greeting like 'Dear Customer.' They also frequently feature urgent language demanding immediate action alongside suspicious hyperlinks that do not match the official organization's domain.

Award 1 mark for identifying a typical sign of phishing (e.g., generic greeting, urgent/threatening tone, suspicious links, spelling errors). Award 1 mark for explaining why this detail indicates the email is fraudulent (e.g., legitimate companies usually address users by name and do not ask for urgent credentials).

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) establishes an encrypted connection over the public internet. This means that all data transferred between the remote employee's device and the company network is secured, ensuring that even if the transmission is intercepted (for example, over an insecure public Wi-Fi network), unauthorized users cannot read or understand the data.

Award 1 mark for identifying a key feature of a VPN (e.g., encryption/secure tunnel) and 1 mark for a linked explanation of how this benefits the company. Example: VPN encrypts data (1) which prevents hackers from reading sensitive company files if intercepted (1). Accept: answers related to masking the user's IP address to bypass local restrictions or securely access local network resources. Reject: general security statements like 'it stops malware' or 'it acts as a firewall'.

Cookies are small text files stored on a user's computer by a web browser. They are used by online shopping websites to maintain state, such as remembering what items have been added to a virtual shopping cart. Without cookies, the website would treat each page load as a completely new visitor, and the shopping basket would be emptied every time the user navigated to a different page.

Award 1 mark for identifying a valid purpose of cookies (e.g., tracking session state, saving preferences, remembering login status) and 1 mark for explaining how this benefits the user or website. Example: To store items added to a shopping basket (1) so that the user's cart is saved as they navigate between different pages of the website (1). Accept: keeping track of login status, target advertising based on browsing history, saving language preferences. Reject: 'saving credit card details securely' or 'preventing viruses'.

MAC address filtering is a security method where a router is configured with a list of allowed MAC addresses, which are unique physical identifiers assigned to network interface cards. Only devices on this 'whitelist' are permitted to connect to the network. However, it does not provide complete security because MAC addresses are transmitted in unencrypted plaintext over the air. An attacker using a packet sniffer can easily capture a valid MAC address and then use software to change their own device's MAC address (MAC spoofing) to match the allowed one, bypassing the filter entirely.

1 mark for explaining that the router maintains a list/whitelist of approved physical MAC addresses.
1 mark for stating that only devices on this list are allowed network access.
1 mark for explaining that MAC addresses are transmitted in unencrypted/plaintext format and can be intercepted.
1 mark for explaining that attackers can spoof/clone an allowed MAC address to gain unauthorized access.

Ransomware is malicious software that encrypts a user's files and folders, making them completely inaccessible. The attackers then display a message demanding a ransom payment in exchange for the decryption key. A robust backup strategy, such as keeping backups on separate media and maintaining at least one copy offline (air-gapped), mitigates this threat. If an infection occurs, the user can wipe the affected system and restore all files from the safe offline backup, completely avoiding the need to pay the ransom.

1 mark for explaining that ransomware encrypts files to make them inaccessible to the user.
1 mark for stating that a ransom is demanded to restore access/decrypt.
1 mark for specifying that backups must be kept offline or disconnected from the network to prevent them from also being encrypted.
1 mark for explaining that the user can restore data from the offline backup to recover without paying.

First, SSDs offer significantly faster random read and write speeds because they use flash memory instead of physical spinning platters. This allows the database server to process multiple concurrent query requests with minimal latency. Second, SSDs have no moving parts, making them highly durable and less prone to mechanical failure. Under heavy server workloads with constant disk activity, SSDs offer better reliability, reducing the risk of server downtime and data corruption.

1 mark for identifying that SSDs provide much faster read/write speeds or lower latency.
1 mark for explaining that this allows rapid handling of multiple concurrent database queries.
1 mark for identifying that SSDs have no moving parts/are physically durable.
1 mark for explaining that this reduces mechanical wear and server downtime under continuous use.

One benefit of cloud storage is the ability to access files from any location and device with an internet connection, which facilitates easy collaboration and sharing of large design files directly with clients via shared links. One drawback is the absolute dependence on a stable and fast internet connection; if the internet service is offline or slow, the designer will be unable to access, edit, or upload large project files, severely disrupting their workflow.

1 mark for identifying a valid benefit (e.g., remote access, client collaboration, automated backups).
1 mark for explaining how this benefits the graphic designer (e.g., sharing files via links, working on the move).
1 mark for identifying a valid drawback (e.g., dependency on internet, ongoing subscription costs, security/privacy concerns).
1 mark for explaining how this impacts the designer (e.g., slow uploads of large design files, complete loss of productivity when offline).

A lack of high-speed broadband means rural residents cannot easily access modern digital services, online education, or remote work opportunities, putting them at a severe disadvantage compared to urban residents who have high-speed access. This deepens economic and social inequality, which is the core of the digital divide. To address this, a government could provide financial subsidies or tax breaks to internet service providers (ISPs) to offset the high costs of laying fiber-optic cables or deploying satellite broadband in low-population rural areas.

1 mark for explaining how rural residents are disadvantaged (e.g., restricted access to remote work, modern educational resources, or digital public services).
1 mark for linking this disadvantage to the widening of the digital divide (socio-economic inequality between regions).
1 mark for describing a valid government action (e.g., financial subsidies, public-private partnerships, infrastructure grants).
1 mark for explaining how this action resolves the issue (e.g., making it commercially viable for ISPs to expand networks into remote areas).

Indicative Content: Benefits to the library and users: - Remote Accessibility: Users can search the library's catalogue and access digitized archives from home or on the move, increasing the library's reach. - Scalability: As the library digitizes more books and records, cloud storage can be scaled up instantly without needing to buy, install, or maintain new physical drives. - Disaster Recovery and Backup: Professional cloud providers have robust, automated backup systems across multiple locations, reducing the risk of data loss from local disasters like fire or hardware failure. - Financial flexibility: Reduces the capital expenditure of buying local server hardware, substituting it with operational expenditure (pay-as-you-go subscription model). Drawbacks to the library and users: - Internet Dependency: Access to the catalogue and archives becomes entirely reliant on an active internet connection. If the library's network goes down, or if users have poor connectivity, they cannot access any files. - Long-term Costs: Although initial costs are low, monthly subscription fees continue indefinitely and may rise, potentially costing more than a local server over its lifespan. - Security and Privacy: Personal data of library members and copyrighted archive materials are stored on third-party servers, raising concerns about data breaches, unauthorized access, and compliance with data protection laws. - Bandwidth and Performance: Uploading large volumes of digitized files to the cloud can be slow and consume high bandwidth, impacting other library operations.

Level-based marking scheme (8 marks total): Level 1 (1-3 marks): Candidate identifies basic points but lacks depth or balance. Response may only focus on one side (either advantages or disadvantages) or list simple points without explaining their impact on the library or its users. Little or no use of technical terminology. Level 2 (4-6 marks): Candidate provides a balanced discussion showing understanding of both advantages and disadvantages. Points are explained with some reference to how they affect the library and/or its users (e.g., explaining why remote access benefits users, or how internet reliance creates issues). Some appropriate technical terminology is used. Level 3 (7-8 marks): Candidate provides a detailed, well-structured, and balanced discussion. Thoroughly evaluates the impact on both the library and its users. Clear, logical arguments are made, showing deep understanding of cloud storage versus local servers. Consistent and accurate use of technical terminology.

Indicative Content: Operational Benefits: - Cost Savings for the Company: The company reduces expenditure on purchasing and replacing corporate-owned smartphones, tablets, and laptops. - Employee Familiarity: Employees use devices they are already comfortable with, which eliminates the learning curve, increases productivity, and reduces the need for basic device training. - Flexibility and Mobility: Employees can work remotely, check emails, or complete tasks at times and locations that suit them, leading to a more responsive workforce. - Convenience: Employees only need to carry a single physical device for both personal and professional tasks, rather than separate corporate and personal devices. Security Risks: - Data Leakage: If an employee's personal device is lost or stolen, sensitive company data (such as emails, customer records, or financial information) may fall into unauthorized hands. - Malware Vulnerability: Personal devices are more likely to run outdated software, connect to insecure public Wi-Fi networks, and lack enterprise-grade antivirus protection, making them easier targets for malware that can infect the corporate network. - Device Management Challenges: IT departments face significant difficulties in monitoring and securing a wide range of different operating systems (iOS, Android, Windows) and device specifications. - Privacy Concerns: Introducing Mobile Device Management (MDM) software to monitor and secure corporate data on a personal device can lead to privacy concerns from employees, who may fear the company is monitoring their personal activity.

Level-based marking scheme (8 marks total): Level 1 (1-3 marks): Candidate lists basic benefits or risks of BYOD, but the answer lacks structure and balance. Points are stated as simple facts without explanation of the consequences for the company or employees. Minimal technical terminology. Level 2 (4-6 marks): Candidate provides a balanced response discussing both benefits and security risks. The answer considers the perspectives of both the company and the employees, though one might be more developed than the other. Explanations demonstrate clear understanding of the operational and security implications. Appropriate technical terminology is used. Level 3 (7-8 marks): Candidate provides a comprehensive and highly structured discussion of both operational benefits and security risks. Fully addresses the implications for both the company and its employees. Shows deep understanding of modern security practices (e.g., MDM, malware, data leakage) and business dynamics. Fluent use of technical terminology throughout.