Brief answer questions:
1.) What do you mean by IoT?
- The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of interconnected physical devices embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies to collect and exchange data over the Internet, enabling automation and intelligent decision-making.
2.) What is HTTP?
- HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) is a communication protocol used for transferring data, such as web pages, over the Internet.
3.) List any two benefits of multiplexing.
- Efficient Use of Resources: Allows multiple signals to share a single communication channel, maximizing its utilization.
- Cost Reduction: Reduces the need for multiple dedicated channels, thereby lowering infrastructure costs.
4.) What is asynchronous transmission?
- Asynchronous transmission is a communication method where data is sent one character at a time with start and stop bits, allowing devices with different clock speeds to communicate without synchronization.
5.) What are the uses of IP address?
- Identifying Devices: Uniquely identifies a device in a network for data communication.
- Routing Data: Facilitates the delivery of data packets to the correct destination in a network.
6.) Why do we need network interface card?
- A network interface card (NIC) is required to connect a computer or device to a network, enabling it to send and receive data through wired or wireless communication.
7.) What is virtual LAN?
- A virtual LAN (VLAN) is a logical grouping of devices on a network that appear to be on the same physical LAN, regardless of their physical location, improving security and network efficiency.
8.) List any two uses of VPN.
- Secure Communication: Encrypts data to protect privacy during online activities.
- Remote Access: Allows users to securely access a private network from anywhere in the world.
9.) List any three Internet access technologies.
- Any three internet access technologies are listed below:
- Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
- Cable Modem
- WiMax
- Fiber to the Home (FTTH)
10.) What is network management?
- Network management refers to the process of administering, monitoring, and maintaining a computer network to ensure its optimal performance, reliability, and security.
- It involves managing hardware, software, policies, and procedures to support data communication and connectivity across the network.
Short Answers Questions
11.) Explain different components of a network in brief.
Key components of a network include:
- Hub
- Switches
- Router
- Modem
- Cable and connectors
- Network interface card
1.) Hub:
A simple networking device that connects multiple computers in a network, typically within a LAN is called Hub.
- It receives data from one device and broadcasts it to all other devices connected to the hub.
- Hubs operate at the physical layer of the OSI model, meaning they don’t distinguish between devices—they simply pass data along to all connected devices.
- Less efficient and often replaced by switches in modern networks.
2.) Switch:
A switch is a more intelligent networking device than a hub. It operates at the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) and forwards data only to the device (or port) that is intended to receive it, based on the MAC (Media Access Control) address.
- Sends data only to the specific device that needs it.
- Supports Full-Duplex Communication.
- Unlike hubs, switches reduce network traffic and collisions by sending data to only the required port.
Example:
A switch connecting computers, printers, and servers in an office LAN.
3.) Router:
A router is a device that forwards data packets between computer networks, typically between a local network (LAN) and the internet (WAN).
- It operates at the Network Layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model and uses IP addresses to route data to its destination.
- Routers work at the network layer and determine the best path for data to travel to its destination. They enable communication between LANs and connect networks to the internet.
- Routers assign IP addresses to devices, making them essential for managing network traffic and providing internet connectivity.
4.) Modem:
A modem (short for modulator-demodulator) is a device that converts digital data from a computer into analog signals for transmission over telephone lines, and vice versa.
- It enables internet access by modulating and demodulating the data.
- Modems allow devices within a LAN to connect to the internet by enabling the transfer of data over broadband or dial-up connections.
5.) Cables and Connectors:
Cables and connectors are the physical mediums used to transmit data between networking devices.
- They can include twisted pair cables, coaxial cables, fiber-optic cables, and others, each having its own characteristics and uses.
- Connectors, such as RJ45 connectors for Ethernet cables, link cables to devices, enabling the physical connection needed for data transfer.
6.) Network Interface Card (NIC):
A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a hardware component that allows a device (such as a computer or printer) to connect to a network.
- It provides the necessary interface to connect to both wired and wireless networks.
- NICs have a unique MAC address and allow devices to send and receive data over a LAN or other networks.
- NICs can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi), depending on the network type.
12.) Explain three cloud computing models in brief.
- Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS):
- Provides virtualized computing resources such as virtual machines, storage, and networks over the internet. Users can manage the operating system and applications but not the underlying hardware. Example: Amazon EC2.
- Platform as a Service (PaaS):
- Offers a platform with tools and services for developers to build, test, and deploy applications without worrying about infrastructure management. Example: Google App Engine.
- Software as a Service (SaaS):
- Delivers software applications over the internet on a subscription basis. Users access the software via a browser without managing hardware or software updates. Example: Microsoft Office 365.
13.) Explain twisted pair cable and coaxial cable.
- Twisted Pair Cable:
- Consists of pairs of insulated copper wires twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference. It is widely used for telephone and Ethernet networks. Types include Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) and Shielded Twisted Pair (STP).
- Coaxial Cable:
- Composed of a central conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating layer. It is used for cable TV, broadband internet, and some types of local area networks due to its higher bandwidth and shielding.
14.) Explain workings of WiMax in brief.
WiMax (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) works by using base stations to transmit and receive data through radio signals over long distances. Here’s how it operates:
- Base Station Communication:
- A WiMax base station is connected to the Internet and acts as the central hub. It transmits data wirelessly to devices within its coverage area.
- Subscriber Devices:
- Devices such as WiMax-enabled modems, routers, or directly integrated devices receive the signals from the base station. These devices can be stationary or mobile.
- Frequency Bands:
- WiMax operates in licensed and unlicensed frequency bands, typically ranging from 2.3 GHz to 3.5 GHz for fixed WiMax and around 2.5 GHz for mobile WiMax.
- Transmission Range:
- WiMax uses advanced antenna technologies, such as MIMO (Multiple Input Multiple Output), to achieve a transmission range of up to 30 miles for fixed stations and around 3–10 miles for mobile use.
- Data Transmission:
- The base station divides its bandwidth to serve multiple devices through OFDMA (Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiple Access), ensuring efficient and reliable communication.
- Connectivity:
- WiMax enables high-speed Internet access for browsing, streaming, VoIP, and other online activities. It is particularly beneficial in rural and remote areas where wired broadband is impractical.
15.) What are the functions of transport layer?
- Segmentation and Reassembly: Breaks data into smaller packets for transmission and reassembles them at the destination.
- Error Detection and Correction: Ensures data is transmitted accurately and without errors.
- Flow Control: Manages the rate of data transfer to prevent overwhelming the receiver.
- Session Management: Establishes, maintains, and terminates communication sessions between devices.
- Multiplexing: Allows multiple applications to use the network simultaneously by assigning unique identifiers (ports).
16.) How does virtual LAN work?
Logical Segmentation:
- A VLAN groups devices logically, not based on physical hardware connections. For example, employees in the same department can be on the same VLAN, even if they are in different buildings.
Tagging with VLAN IDs:
- VLANs use VLAN IDs to label packets. This tagging is typically done at the switch level using protocols like IEEE 802.1Q. The tag ensures that data is routed to the correct VLAN.
Switch Configuration:
- Managed switches are configured to support VLANs by assigning ports or devices to specific VLANs. Each VLAN is treated as a separate network.
Inter-VLAN Communication:
- Communication between VLANs is handled by a router or a Layer 3 switch. Without such a setup, devices on different VLANs cannot communicate.
Long Answer Questions
17.) Explain different components of a LAN.
A Local Area Network (LAN) connects devices within a limited geographic area like an office, school, or home to share resources and data.
Here are the key components of a LAN:
- Network Interface Cards (NICs)
- Network Circuits
- Network Hubs
- Network Switches
- Access Points (APs)
- Network Operating Systems (NOS)
1.) Network Interface Cards (NICs)
A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a hardware component that allows a device (such as a computer or printer) to connect to a network.
- It provides the necessary interface to connect to both wired and wireless networks.
- NICs have a unique MAC address and allow devices to send and receive data over a LAN or other networks.
- NICs can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi), depending on the network type.
Example:
The NIC in a laptop connects it to Wi-Fi or Ethernet, allowing communication with other devices.
2.) Network Circuits
Network circuits are the communication pathways, either wired (cables) or wireless (radio frequencies), that connect network devices.
Types:
- Wired Circuits: Use Ethernet cables like Cat5e, Cat6, or fiber-optic cables.
- Wireless Circuits: Use radio frequencies for data transmission in WLANs.
Characteristics:
- It provides the medium for data transfer.
- It influences network speed and performance based on their type and quality.
Example:
Ethernet cables connecting computers to a central switch in an office.
3.) Network Hubs
A simple networking device that connects multiple computers in a network, typically within a LAN is called Network Hub.
- It receives data from one device and broadcasts it to all other devices connected to the hub.
- Operates at Layer 1 (Physical Layer) of the OSI model.
- Less efficient and often replaced by switches in modern networks.
Example:
A hub connecting multiple computers in a small, simple network.
4.) Network Switches
A Network Switch is a more intelligent networking device than a hub that operates at the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) and forwards data only to the device that is intended to receive it, based on the MAC (Media Access Control) address.
- Sends data only to the specific device that needs it.
- Supports Full-Duplex Communication.
- Unlike hubs, switches reduce network traffic and collisions by sending data to only the required port.
Example:
A switch connecting computers, printers, and servers in an office LAN.
5.) Access Points (APs)
An Access Point (AP) is a device that allows wireless devices to connect to a wired network.
- It serves as a bridge between the wireless and wired components of a LAN.
Characteristics:
- Extends the range of a wireless network.
- Operates using Wi-Fi standards (e.g., 802.11ac or 802.11ax).
- Provides mobility for wireless devices.
Example:
An AP in a home network allows smartphones and laptops to connect to the internet wirelessly.
6.) Network Operating Systems (NOS)
A Network Operating System (NOS) is software that manages network resources and enables communication between devices in a network.
Characteristics:
- Provides functionalities like file sharing, printer sharing, and user authentication.
- Examples include Windows Server, Linux, and Unix-based systems.
- Runs on servers or specialized devices in a LAN.
18.) What is VPN? How does VPN work?
A Virtual Private Networks (VPN) is a technology that allows a secure connection over a less secure network (such as the internet).
- VPNs enable private network users to send and receive data across shared or public networks as if they were directly connected to the private network.
The working of a VPN generally involves the following steps:
1.) Establishing the Connection:
- The user or client device runs VPN client software and connects to a VPN server. The connection is typically initiated using secure protocols like OpenVPN, IPSec, L2TP, or PPTP.
2.) Authentication:
- Once the connection request is received, the VPN server authenticates the client using a username, password, digital certificates, or multi-factor authentication (MFA) for higher security.
3.) Data Encryption:
- After authentication, the data sent between the client and server is encrypted using strong encryption algorithms. This ensures that even if the data is intercepted by unauthorized parties, it remains unreadable.
- Common encryption protocols include AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) and 3DES (Triple DES).
4.) Tunneling:
- The encrypted data is encapsulated into packets and sent through a secure “tunnel” to the VPN server. The tunnel ensures that the data passes through public or unsecured networks without being exposed.
5.) Data Transmission:
- The VPN server decrypts the data and forwards it to the private network, allowing the user to access the desired resources.
6.) Return Path:
- Responses or data from the private network are sent back through the VPN server, where they are encrypted before being sent through the secure tunnel to the client device.
19.) What are the building blocks of network design process?
20.) How can we use cyclic redundancy check to check errors?
Comprehensive Questions
21.) What are different types of networks? Explain open systems interconnection (OSI)
reference model in detail.
22.) Why do we need routing? Explain different types of routing in detail. What is router?
