COMPUTER SCIENCE PROJECT
IMPROVING NETWORK SECURITY IN A SCHOOL COMPUTER
LABORATORY
Name: ______________________________
School: _____________________________
Class: ______________________________
Candidate Number: __________________
Teacher: ____________________________
Date: _______________________________
INTRODUCTION
Schools use computer networks to share internet access, printers, files and other resources.
Network security protects systems and information from unauthorised access and harmful activity.
BACKGROUND TO THE PROBLEM
Threats can include malware, phishing, weak passwords, unauthorised devices and unsafe
downloads. Good security combines technology with responsible user behaviour.
AIM, OBJECTIVES AND HYPOTHESIS
AIM: To investigate ways of improving network security in a school computer laboratory.
OBJECTIVES: Identify common threats; explain security controls; investigate user awareness;
recommend safe practices; and describe the importance of backups.
HYPOTHESIS: Better security controls and user awareness can reduce common network risks.
COMMON NETWORK THREATS
Malware can damage or disrupt systems. Phishing can trick users into revealing information. Weak
passwords can make accounts easier to compromise. Unauthorised devices may introduce risks to
a school network.
PASSWORDS, FIREWALLS AND ANTIVIRUS
Useful controls include strong passwords, access permissions, firewalls, security software, software
updates and backups. Multi-factor authentication can provide additional protection where available.
SAFE INTERNET AND NETWORK PRACTICES
Users should avoid suspicious links and downloads, protect login information and report unusual
activity. Shared computers should be logged out after use. Important data should be backed up
according to school procedures.
PRACTICAL INVESTIGATION
A questionnaire can measure awareness of phishing, passwords, backups and reporting
procedures. Do not collect real passwords or confidential information. Record responses
anonymously and analyse the totals.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
Results can show which security topics need more attention. A limitation is that questionnaire
answers may not always match actual behaviour. Repeating the survey after training could show
whether awareness improves.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Schools should provide regular cybersecurity education, maintain suitable security controls, update
systems, restrict unauthorised access and establish clear reporting procedures. Users should follow
acceptable-use policies.
CONCLUSION AND REFERENCES
Conclusion: Network security depends on both technical controls and responsible users. Combining
these measures can create a safer school computing environment.
References: Computer Science textbooks, school notes, teacher demonstrations and general
information-security educational materials.