BCCA401 - Computer Networks
Assignment-1 Answers
Q.1 Define data communication. Draw data communication system and discuss the working of its
components.
Data communication is the exchange of data between devices through a transmission medium.
It enables devices to communicate effectively using a set of rules (protocols) that ensure the
accurate transfer of information.
Components of Data Communication System:
1. **Sender**: The device that initiates communication by generating and sending data.
2. **Receiver**: The device that receives the transmitted data and processes it.
3. **Transmission Medium**: The physical or wireless channel through which data travels.
4. **Message**: The actual information being transmitted, such as text, images, or audio.
5. **Protocol**: A set of rules that govern how data is transmitted and received.
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Q.2 List and discuss various types of connections.
1. **Point-to-Point Connection**:
- Dedicated link between two devices.
- Example: USB connection between a computer and a printer.
2. **Multipoint Connection**:
- Shared communication link used by multiple devices.
- Example: Wi-Fi network with multiple users.
3. **Wired Connection**:
- Uses cables like twisted pair, coaxial, or fiber optics.
- Example: Ethernet network in offices.
4. **Wireless Connection**:
- Uses electromagnetic waves for data transmission.
- Example: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, satellite communication.
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Q.3 Define network topologies and explain their working.
Network topology refers to the physical or logical arrangement of devices in a network.
1. **Bus Topology**: Single central cable connects all devices.
2. **Star Topology**: All devices connect to a central hub or switch.
3. **Ring Topology**: Devices are arranged in a closed loop.
4. **Mesh Topology**: Every device connects to every other device.
5. **Hybrid Topology**: Combination of two or more topologies.
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Q.4 Explain layered network architecture - ISO-OSI model.
The OSI model standardizes network communication into seven layers:
1. **Physical Layer**: Transmits raw bit streams.
2. **Data Link Layer**: Organizes data into frames and handles error detection.
3. **Network Layer**: Determines routing and logical addressing.
4. **Transport Layer**: Ensures reliable data transfer.
5. **Session Layer**: Manages sessions between applications.
6. **Presentation Layer**: Formats and encrypts data.
7. **Application Layer**: Provides services like HTTP, FTP, and email.
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Q.5 Discuss the working of all seven layers of the OSI model.
Each OSI layer plays a crucial role in network communication:
1. **Physical Layer**: Converts digital data into signals.
2. **Data Link Layer**: Divides data into frames for error-free transmission.
3. **Network Layer**: Routes data using logical addressing.
4. **Transport Layer**: Manages data reliability and retransmission.
5. **Session Layer**: Maintains sessions between networked applications.
6. **Presentation Layer**: Encrypts and compresses data.
7. **Application Layer**: Enables services like file transfer and web browsing.
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Q.6 What do you mean by transmission media? Explain its types.
Transmission media are the pathways for transmitting data.
1. **Guided Media (Wired Transmission)**:
- Uses cables for data transfer.
- Examples: Twisted pair, Coaxial, Fiber optic.
2. **Unguided Media (Wireless Transmission)**:
- Uses electromagnetic waves.
- Examples: Radio waves, Microwaves, Infrared.
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Q.7 Define computer networks and its types.
A computer network is an interconnection of devices for communication and resource sharing.
1. **LAN (Local Area Network)**: Covers small areas (homes, offices, schools).
2. **MAN (Metropolitan Area Network)**: Covers cities, connecting multiple LANs.
3. **WAN (Wide Area Network)**: Spans large geographical distances (Internet).
4. **PAN (Personal Area Network)**: Connects personal devices like smartphones.
5. **VPN (Virtual Private Network)**: Provides secure communication over public networks.
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End of Assignment-1 Answers
