COMPUTER NETWORKS

===========Short Answer Questions=========

Q1. Define the term computer network.

Computer Network
When two or more computers are connected to each other by cables or wirelessly
to share resources, it is called a computer network.
Explanation
Computers are connected to each other mainly for the sack of communication and
resources sharing. A resource may be a hardware or software.
Example
➢ LAN of an office
➢ WAN of a bank
➢ GAN the internet

Q2. What is a LAN structure? Describe famous LAN models.

LAN Structure / LAN Models
A LAN structure defines what type of role has been provided to the nodes of the
LAN. The LAN model is apart from the physical layout of the LAN. The following
are the two major types.
➢ Peer To Peer Network
In this network model all the nodes have equal rights and can directly
communicate with one another. A peer to peer network is also called work group.
➢ Client Server Network
In a client server network one or more computers are installed as server and all
the other nodes are called clients. A sever is a high capacity, high speed machine
which provides services to the nodes.

Q3. Define topology? What are various topologies used for networks?

A topology is the physical layout of computer system, cables and network devices
in a LAN.
OR
The physical arrangement of nodes in a network is called topology.
Explanation
The networks can be developed using various methods. Apart from the network
models the topology defines the physical connection among the nodes.
Types Of LAN Topology
The following are the four basic topology used for LAN.
➢ Star Topology
➢ Ring Topology
➢ Bus Topology
➢ Hybrid Topology

Q4. What do you know about hybrid topology?

Hybrid Network Topology
Hybrid network topology is a
combination of two or more
topologies.
Explanation
In hybrid network topology there
may be a combination of two or
more topologies like star
topology, ring topology and bus
topology. When two LANs (local
area network) of star topology
are connected through a cable
from the central unit. It becomes
star bus topology.

Q5. Define protocol. Why protocols are used describe with examples.
Rules and regulations applied for effective communication over the network are
called protocols.
Explanation
A protocol defines the proper method of communication among the computers of
a networks. The protocol provides error free, secure, fast and effective
communication. A number of protocols have been defined for different purposes.
Examples
FTP: file transfer protocol
SMTP: simple mail transfer protocol.
TCP/IP: transmission control protocol/ internet protocol.

Q6. What is the (www) world wide web?

World wide web is the collection of hyper text documents.
Explanation
Over the internet the hyper text documents called web pages can be accessed.
These web pages are published by companies or individuals containing
information about different topics. A web browser felicitates to open web pages.
Example
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]

Q7. What is a web browser? Describe with example.

A web browser is an application software which provides the facility to interact
with the web pages.
Explanation:
A web browser is sent to open web sites. It displays text, images and other
information one web page over the world wide web or in a local area
network. A web browser enables a user easily and quickly accesses a web page.

Examples
Internet explorer
Netscape navigator
Google chrome
Q8. What do you know about extranet?
An extranet is a computer network that allows controlled access from the outside,
for specific business or educational purposes. An extranet can be viewed as an
extension of a company's intranet that is extended to users outside the company,
usually partners, vendors, and suppliers. It has also been described as a "state of
mind" in which the Internet is perceived as a way to do business with a selected
set of other companies (business-to-business, B2B), in isolation from all other
Internet users. In contrast, business-to-consumer (B2C) models involve known
servers of one or more companies, communicating with previously unknown
consumer users.

Q9. What do you know about intranet?

An intranet is a set of networks, using the Internet Protocol and IP-based tools
such as web browsers and file transfer applications, that is under the control of a
single administrative entity. That administrative entity closes the intranet to all
but specific, authorized users. Most commonly, an intranet is the internal network
of an organization. A large intranet will typically have at least one web server to
provide users with organizational information.

===========Long Answer Questions=========

Q1. Define network. Why network are used?

Computer Network
When two or more computers
are connected to each other by
cables or wirelessly to share
resources, it is called a
computer network.

Explanation
Computers are connected to
each other mainly for the sake
of communication and resources
sharing. A resource may be a
hardware or software.

Reasons to Develop Network

1. The very first objective to
develop a network is to get
communication. Two computers can communicate each other.

2. Hardware resources like printers, scanners and digital cameras can be sheared
over the network.

3. Data files can be shared over the network.

4. The software can also be shared among different computers of the network.
5. Because of the resources sharing cost of devices can be saved and performance
can be increase.

Q2. How many types of networks are there? Explain each of them?
The computer networks may be of the following three types.
1. LAN (local area network)
2. WAN (wide area network)
3. GAN (global area network)
LAN (Local Area Network)
A group of computers connected to each other in a small geographic area like
home or office is called LAN.
➢ Explanation
A local area network is normally owned privately. The systems are connected
wirelessly or through cables. Special network software are installed to run the
whole setup.
➢ Example
1. A LAN (in any business office)
2. A computer lab (in an educational institute)
WAN (Wide Area Network)
A WAN is a computer network developed over a wide geographical area which can
cover cities, states or countries.
➢ Explanation
WANs are normally used in large corporations to facilitate the exchange and
on time update of data. It also enables LANs to communicate with each other.
➢ Examples
A country wide WAN of a bank.

GAN (Global Area Network)

A GAN is a worldwide interconnection of computer networks.
➢ Explanation
A GAN is the network of the networks through out the world. We also referred
to it as internet. A GAN follows specific standard called protocols for
communication. It is a public network.
➢ Examples
Internet

Q3. Define LAN. Write down important characters of LAN.

A LAN is a privately owned computer network in a small geographic location.
Explanation
A LAN is developed normally inside an office or home. The computer systems are
connected by wirelessly or with wired media.
Characteristics of a LAN
The following are some major characteristics of a LAN.
➢ Small Geographic Location
LANs are developed in a building, house or office. It means that it is developed
in a small geographic area.

➢ LAN Machines
The computer systems connected in a LAN are called nodes. A node which
provide services is called server machine and a node which receives services
is called client machine or work station.
➢ Network Software
In a LAN special operating systems are installed on the nodes. There are
different client and server operating systems.
 ➢ Resources Sharing
The computer systems connected in a LAN can share the resources like data
files, hardware and software.
➢ Policy Based Management
In a LAN all the systems in an organization can share a uniform policy and
policy based management. A person who controls, implements and manages a
LAN is called LAN administrator.

Q4. What is network operating system describe with example?

An operating system which is particularly designed for a network is called network
operating system.
Explanation
A network operating system contains special features applied on a network. A
network operating system is more advanced then an individual operating system.
Network Operating System Types
There are mainly two types of network operating systems these are as follows:
➢ Server Operating System
An operating system which manages all the client machines and provides services
is called server operating system. It implements policies, user rights, restrictions
and permission for work stations.
Examples
Windows 2003 server
Windows 2008 server
➢ Client Operating System
An operating system installed on a work station to get services from the server is
called client operating system.
Example
Windows XP 2003
Windows NT workstation

Q5. What is a LAN structure? Describe features of famous LAN models.

LAN Structure / LAN Models
A LAN structure defines what type of role has been provided to the nodes of the
LAN. The LAN model is apart from the physical layout of the LAN.
The following are the two major LAN models.
1. Peer To Peer Network. (Work Group)
2. Client Server Network (Domain)
1. Peer To Peer Network
In this network model all the nodes have equal rights and can directly
communicate with one another. A peer to peer network is also called work group.
Features
1. There are equal rights and
authorities among the nodes.
2. There is not any node as server.
3. Peer to peer network is less
expensive.
4. Peer to peer network can work
effectively up to 25 nodes.
5. Peer to peer network is useful
for small organizations.

Examples
➢ AppleShare used
for networking
connecting Apple products.
➢ Windows for Workgroups used for
networking peer-to-peer windows
computers.
Advantages
➢ Ease of setup
➢ Less hardware needed, no server needs to be purchased.
Disadvantages
➢ No central location for storage.
➢ Lack of security that a client/server type offers.

2. Client Server Network

In a client server network one or more computers are installed as server and all
the other nodes are called clients. A sever is a high capacity, high speed machine
which provides services to the nodes.

Features
1. All the nodes depend on a computer system called
server.
2. The computer which gets services from
the servers are called client.
3. For all the nodes the policies, user rights
and permissions are imposed from the
server.
4. Centralized control of the
network is manages easily.
5. Centralized storage of data
provides easy backup management.

6. In client server model a network of thousands of computers can be developed

and manage easily.

Examples
➢ Novell Netware
 ➢ Windows Server
Advantages
➢ Centralized servers are more stable.
➢ Security is provided through the server.
➢ New technology and hardware can be easily integrated into the system.
➢ Servers are able to be accessed remotely from different locations and types
of systems.
Disadvantages
➢ Cost of buying and running a server are high.
➢ Dependence on a central location for operation.
➢ Requires regular maintenance and updates.

Q6. What is star topology? What are its advantages and disadvantages?

In a star topology the nodes are connected to a central unit which may be devices
like hub, switch or it may be a computer system having multiple network
interfaces. The central unit is responsible for the communication among the nodes
of the network.

Advantages Of
Star Topology
The star topology is a
most commonly used
topology for a
network and it
has a number of
advantages.
➢ Easy
Installation Of
Nodes
In a star network
nodes can be
added and
removed easily,
and the physical
management of
the network is quite
comfortable.

➢ No Chance Of Data Collision

While using a star topology in a network there is no chance of data collision
because central unit presents the collision of data.
➢ No Influence Of Any Connection Failure
If any node is failed to work or any connection is broken from any node or
device the whole network is not affected and work continuously.
➢ No Transmission Delay
If the number of nodes are increased it does not affect the speed of the network
because all the traffic passes through the central unit.
Disadvantages Of Star Topology
The star topology contains some weaknesses which are as follows:
➢ Total Dependency On The Central Unit
 A star network is particularly dependent on the central unit like hub or switch.
If the switch fails to work the whole network will be stopped.
➢ Expensive Hardware
Since a separate cable for each computer is required so it becomes
comparatively expensive. Similarly, the central unit is also compulsory which
increases cost.

Q7. What is a ring topology? What are its advantages and weakness?

Ring Topology
In a ring topology the nodes
are connected with each
other in such a way that the
structure look likes a ring.
Explanation
In ring topology all the
nodes are connected in a
ring like structure. The
communications between
the nodes follow a clockwise
or anti-clockwise pattern.
The data passes through node to node to reach the desired destination. The ring
topology does not contain a central unit.
Advantages Of A Ring Network
The ring network contains the following advantages.
➢ No Danger Of Data Collision
The data flows in a single direction so there is no chance of collision of data.
➢ No Dependence On Central Unit
Unlike the star network the communication is not dependent on the central
unit, so a ring network is more reliable in this regard.
Disadvantages Of Ring Network
The following are the disadvantages of the ring network.
➢ Communication Delay:
There is a direct proportion between the number of nodes and communication
delay. So as the number of nodes increase, it results in more communication
delay.
➢ Difficult Network Extension
In a ring network it is not so easy to add or remove the new terminals.

➢ Difficult Trouble Shooting

As compare to the star network it is difficult to trouble shoot any
communication problem in a ring network.
➢ Total Dependency On The Ring
If the ring is broken the whole network stops working.

Q8. What is a bus topology? What are its advantages or disadvantages?

Bus Topology
In a bus topology the nodes are
connected in a series on a
network cable.
Explanation
In a bus topology all the
computers and devices are
connected on a network cable.
Usually a circuit board or card is
used to connect one of the
expansion slot. The card
contains the hardware and software required to access the network. All the
communication take place on a common network cable. In a bus network there is
no central unit.
Advantages Of Bus Network
The bus network contains the following advantages.
➢ Easy Extension Of Networks
The new terminals can be added or removed easily in a bus network.
➢ Easy Network Management
A bus network is simple and it is easy to administrate.
➢ No Influence Of Any Node Failure
In a bus network if one of the terminal become defective it does not effect on
other computers of the networks.
Disadvantages Of Bus Network
A bus network contains the following weaknesses.
➢ Extra Hardware And Software Requirement
In a bus network extra circuitry and software are required to avoid collision of
data.
➢ Difficult Error Detection
If any error is produced in a network it is not easy to detect.
➢ Total Dependency On Main Cable
If a connection in the bus network is broken the entire network may stop
working.

Q9. What are different network components of a LAN? Explain in detail.

A local area network is developed using several standard components. These
components can be categorized mainly as.
1. Software Components
2. Hardware Components
Software Components
When a computer network is developed special software’s are required to run a
network effectively.

➢ Network Operating System

A network operating system is an special operating system designed
specifically to install on the nodes of the network. It manages all the activities
of the computer system and communication.
➢ Special Purpose Network Software
In computer network special purpose network software are also installed to get
advantages like communication and network
 protection. Anti-viruses, emailing and file transferring software’s are the
examples.
Hardware Components
In order to develop a computer network besides the computer system some
hardware are also required. These are as follows:
➢ Connection Cables
To develop a LAN special cables are required to connect the computer systems.
Twisted pair cables, ca-axial cable or fiber-optic cables can be used to connect
computer systems. The connection among the computer systems can also be
wireless connection using infra-red, radio-ware, Bluetooth or wifi.
➢ Network Interface Card
Network interface card is a small circuit board which is inserted in any
expansion slot. It is abbreviated as NIC. It provides the processing features for
communication among the computers in a network. 3com, zoltrix and smartlink
are the examples of NIC.
➢ Special Purpose Network Devices:
For proper management, control and administration some special purpose
network devices are used. These devices perform the task like regenerating of
signals, boosting of the information packets and providing error free
communication. The examples include routers, bridges and gateways.
➢ Shared Devices
Some peripheral devices are also installed in a network to get the advantage
of sharing. These devices can be shared by all the computer systems connected
with the network. Examples include printers, scanners, fax machines and
storage devices etc.

Q10. Describe the purpose of various network devices like NICs,

Repeaters, Hubs, Switches, Bridges, Routers and Firewalls.
Apart from the physical communications media themselves as described above,
networks comprise additional basic hardware building blocks interconnecting their
terminals, such as network interface cards (NICs), hubs, bridges, switches, and
routers.
Network Interface Cards
A network card, network adapter, or NIC (network interface card) is a piece of
computer hardware designed to allow computers to physically access a networking
medium. It provides a low-level addressing system through the use of MAC (Media
Access Control) addresses.
Each Ethernet network interface has a unique MAC address which is usually stored
in a small memory device on the card, allowing any device to connect to the
network without creating an address conflict. Ethernet MAC addresses are
composed of six octets. Uniqueness is maintained by the IEEE.
Repeaters and Hubs
A repeater is an electronic device that receives a signal, cleans it of unnecessary
noise, regenerates it, and retransmits it at a higher power level, or to the other
side of an obstruction, so that the signal can cover longer distances without
degradation. In most twisted pair Ethernet configurations, repeaters are required
for cable that runs longer than 100 meters. A repeater with multiple ports is known
as a hub. Repeaters work

on the physical layer of the OSI model. Repeaters require a small amount of time
to regenerate the signal.
This can cause a propagation delay which can affect network communication when
there are several repeaters in a row. Today, repeaters and hubs have been made
mostly obsolete by switches.
Bridges
A network bridge connects multiple network segments at the data link layer (layer
2) of the OSI model. Bridges broadcast to all ports except the port on which the
broadcast was received. However, bridges do not promiscuously copy traffic to all
ports, as hubs do, but learn which MAC addresses are reachable through specific
ports. Once the bridge associates a port and an address, it will send traffic for that
address to that port only.
The first time that a previously unknown destination address is seen, the bridge
will forward the frame to all ports other than the one on which the frame arrived.
Bridges come in three basic types:
➢ Local bridges: Directly connect local area networks (LANs)
➢ Remote bridges: Can be used to create a wide area network (WAN) link
between LANs. Remote bridges, where the connecting link is slower than
the end networks, largely have been replaced with routers.
➢ Wireless bridges: Can be used to join LANs or connect remote stations to
LANs.
Switches
A network switch is a device that forwards and filters OSI layer 2 datagrams
(chunks of data communication) between ports (connected cables) based on the
MAC addresses in the packets. A switch is distinct from a hub in that it only
forwards the frames to the ports involved in the communication rather than all
ports connected. A switch breaks the collision domain but represents itself as a
broadcast domain. Switches make forwarding decisions of frames on the basis of
MAC addresses. A switch normally has numerous ports, facilitating a star topology
for devices, and cascading additional switches. Some switches are capable of
routing based on Layer 3 addressing or additional logical levels; these are called
multi-layer switches.
Routers
A router is an internetworking device that forwards packets between networks by
processing information found in the datagram or packet (Internet protocol
information from Layer 3 of the OSI Model). In many situations, this information
is processed in conjunction with the routing table (also known as forwarding
table). Routers use routing tables to determine what interface to forward packets
(this can include the "null"

also known as the "black hole" interface because data can go into it, however, no
further processing is done for said data).
Firewalls
A firewall is an important aspect of a network with respect to security. It typically
rejects access requests from unsafe sources while allowing actions from
recognized ones. The vital role firewalls play in network security grows in parallel
with the constant increase in 'cyber' attacks for the purpose of stealing/corrupting
data, planting viruses, etc.
Gateways
A gateway is an interface which enables dissimilar networks to communicate each
other. A gateway may be a device or software configured on a computer system.
Dissimilar network means networks having different topologies or operating
system. For example Microsoft configured gateway.

Q11. Define internet. Write down major advantages of internet.

Internet
The internet is a global area network. It is the network of the networks.
Explanation
The internet was evolved from a
network called
“ARPANET”. It was
developed in 1969 by US
department of
defense. With the passage of
time the protocols were established for
communication. In 1983 a standard
protocol with the name of
TCP/IP was developed and in 1990
ARPANET was
commercially introduced as internet.
Advantages Of Internet
Internet provides a number of
benefits, these are as as follows:
➢ Easy Method Of
Communication
Internet provides easy methods for communication which are assembled by all
kinds of communities.
➢ Cheap Method For Communication
Internet provides fast and inexpensive methods for communication.
➢ Sharing Of Information
Using internet public information can be shared using World Wide Web.
➢ On Time Transmission
Data can be shared on time using various methods of internet. There no chance
of delay.
➢ Online Data Processing
Online data processing for business like banks, utility bills etc are performed
easily through internet.
➢ Online Sales And Purchase
Online sales and purchase is an advanced feature of internet.
➢ Voice And Video Communication
Besides the PSTN (public switch telephone network). Internet provides
inexpensive and fast voice communication and video conferencing facility.

Q12. Define email. Write down its advantages and disadvantages.

Transformation of text messages over the internet is called e-male.
Explanation
The most of the websites allow users popular allows users to send and receive
messages to each other using e-mail. The electronic file can also be sent and
received using email. An e-mail address is developed on a website called domain.
It contains the user name and the domain name.
The user name identifies the person who originates or receives the mail. The
domain name identifies the computer system on which the user has on account.
The e-mail address’ parts are separated be @ and .sign.
Example
uwaisqurni@[Link]
Advantages Of E-Mail
The following are some advantages of e-mail.
➢ Speedy Transmission
An email is delivered at the moment when it is sent. There is not any other
such kind of fast mail delivery system.
➢ Inexpensive Transmission
Electronic files and letters can be sent and received on a very less cost.
➢ Availability
The facility is available normally every time and everywhere.
➢ Flexible Management
It is easy to send and receive mail a number of features are provided by the
email service providers.
Disadvantages Of E-Mail
The following are some disadvantages of e-mail.
➢ Email facility is generally available to everyone.
➢ Any email send to wrong address cannot be recalled back .
➢ It is not completely private or confidential due to hacking.
➢ It can be misused because it is free of cost.
➢ An email may contain any virus or file that can affect the computer system.