Question 1 (SO 1, AC 1, AC 2)
a) Define the term computer network using examples.
b) Identify and distinguish 3 types of computer networks.
(2)
(6)
c) Identify and distinguish 4 network topologies. Use diagrams to illustrate your answer.
(8)
Question 2 (SO 1, AC 3)
a) Define the term node addressing methods.
(2)
b) Outline the following features of node addressing methods;
Circuit switching
Message switching
Packet switching
Frame relay
Cell relay
(2)
(2)
(2)
Question 3 (SO 2, AC 1, AC 2)
a) Explain channel utilization techniques and their features.
(6)
b) Explain CSMA/CA as a principle of access protocols.
(3)
Question 4 (SO 2, AC 3)
Melliar
(2)
Thabo is an intern at a company specialising in computer networking systems. His team has been given a new project to plan and implement the LAN network for a top auditing firm. Sam, Thabo's mentor has requested Thabo to identify all the LAN components. Assist Thabo to identify and describe the purpose of LAN components.
Question 5 (SO 3, AC 1, AC 2)
a) Describe circuit switching and packet switching.
(6)
b) Identify the differences between switching and packet switching techniques.
a) Define the term computer network using examples.
A computer network is a group of interconnected computers that can communicate with each other and share resources. Examples of computer networks include:
- Local Area Network (LAN): A network confined to a small geographic area, such as a single building or campus.
- Wide Area Network (WAN): A network that covers a large geographic area, such as multiple cities or countries.
- Wireless Network: A network that uses wireless communication technologies to connect devices without the need for physical cables.
b) Identify and distinguish 3 types of computer networks.
1. Local Area Network (LAN): A LAN is a network that connects devices within a limited area such as a single building or campus. It is often used for sharing resources and internet connectivity among multiple devices in a small area.
2. Wide Area Network (WAN): A WAN is a network that spans a large geographic area, connecting devices across multiple locations such as different cities or countries. WANs are often used by organizations to connect remote offices and enable communication over long distances.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): A MAN is a network that covers a larger geographic area than a LAN but smaller than a WAN, typically within a city or metropolitan area. MANs are used to connect multiple LANs and provide high-speed connectivity for communication between different locations within a city.
c) Identify and distinguish 4 network topologies. Use diagrams to illustrate your answer.
1. Bus Topology: In a bus topology, all devices are connected to a single central cable or backbone. Data is transmitted by sending signals along the cable, and all devices on the network can see the data.
Diagram:
2. Star Topology: In a star topology, each device on the network is connected to a central hub or switch. Data is transmitted between devices through the central hub, which manages and controls communication on the network.
Diagram:
3. Ring Topology: In a ring topology, each device is connected to two other devices, forming a closed loop or ring. Data is transmitted in one direction around the ring, passing through each device until it reaches its destination.
Diagram:
4. Mesh Topology: In a mesh topology, every device on the network is connected to every other device, creating multiple paths for data to travel. This redundancy makes mesh networks highly reliable and fault-tolerant.
Diagram: