Unit 1: Computer Systems

MCQs

i. What computing machine was capable of taking input from punch cards and storing data in
memory?
a) Abacus
b) Analytical Engine
c) Tabulating Machine
d) Differential Analyzer

ii. What technology replaced vacuum tubes in second-generation computers?

a) Transistors
b) Integrated Circuits (ICs)
c) Microprocessors
d) Magnetic tapes

iii. Which computer generation introduced the use of Integrated Circuits (ICs)?
a) First Generation
b) Second Generation
c) Third Generation
d) Fourth Generation

iv. Which of the following is an example of a natural system?

a) Telephone network
b) Human body
c) Database
d) Automobile

v. Which component of the microprocessor controls the working of input/output devices and
storage devices?
a) Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
b) Control Unit (CU)
c) Memory Address Register (MAR)
d) Data Register (DR)

vi. Which type of memory retains data even when the computer is turned off?
a) RAM
b) ROM
c) Cache
d) Register

vii. What is the main purpose of Cache memory?

a) Store program instructions
b) Provide high-speed storage
c) Control input/output devices
d) Perform arithmetic operations

viii. What is the smallest unit of memory in a digital computer?

a) Kilobyte

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b) Bit
c) Byte
d) Megabyte

ix. Which memory type uses laser beams to read and write data?
a) RAM
b) Optical memory
c) Cache memory
d) ROM

x. In Von Neumann architecture, where are instruction data and program data stored?
a) In separate memory units
b) In the same memory unit
c) In the processor's registers
d) In the cache memory

xi. What is the primary function of the buses in a computer's memory system?
a) Control memory operations
b) Display graphics
c) Transmit data between components
d) Perform arithmetic operations

xii. What is the primary function of the Presentation Layer in the OSI model?
a) Establishing connections between computers
b) Converting data into a standard format
c) Deciding the physical path of data
d) Sending data in both directions simultaneously

xiii. In which network topology is data transmission unidirectional, like radio or television
broadcasts?
a) Star Topology
b) Bus Topology
c) Mesh Topology
d) Ring Topology

xiv. Which data communication standard is used for transferring web pages and related data
on the World Wide Web?
a) TCP/IP
b) HTTP
c) FTP
d) SMTP

xv. Which network architecture requires each computer to act as either a server or a client but
not both simultaneously?
a) Client/Server Network
b) Peer-to-Peer Network
c) Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
d) Wide Area Network (WAN)

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 SRQs

i. What is the function and significance of Napier's Bone in early computing?

John Napier developed Napier’s Bones, a manually operated calculating device. It used 9
separate strips (bones) marked with numerals to multiply and divide. It was also the first
machine to calculate using the decimal point system.

ii. How did Charles Babbage's Difference Engine differ from the Analytical Engine?

Charles Babbage's Difference Engine was a steam-powered engine to do basic

computations and solve numerical problems. The Analytical Engine was a mechanical
computer that took input from punched cards and could solve any mathematical problem.

iii. What is the primary goal of fifth-generation computers?

The primary objective of fifth-generation computers is to develop devices that can

understand natural languages and have thinking power. They focus on AI, Natural
Language Processing (NLP), Expert Systems, Voice recognition etc. This is a big
challenge for computer developers and programmers to design such systems and software
for them.

iv. Name the three types of memory mentioned on the motherboard in the Von Neumann
architecture.

Von Neumann’s architecture includes three memory types: primary memory i.e. RAM
(Random Access Memory), cache and Secondary Storage i.e. HDD, SSD etc.

v. Differentiate between volatile and non-volatile memory.

Volatile Memory
• Temporary memory that requires power to maintain stored information
• It loses the information when the power is turned off.
• Example: RAM, Cache and Registers.
Non-Volatile Memory
• Permanent memory that does not require power to maintain stored information
• It maintains the information when the power is turned off.
• Example: ROM, Flash memory and Secondary storage devices.

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 vi. Show memory hierarchy with the help of a diagram.

vii. Why is the word size of a processor important, and how does it affect the computer's
performance?

Word size impacts processor performance and capabilities. A larger word size allows a
CPU to handle larger integers, perform more complex operations and address larger
memory spaces.

viii. What is pipelining, and how does it improve the efficiency of a CPU?

Many modern CPUs use pipelining to increase efficiency. In a pipeline, multiple

instructions are in different stages of execution simultaneously. This allows for better
utilization of the CPU's resources and faster execution of instructions.

ix. Imagine you are building a custom computer for a friend. Give three considerations
you would take into account when choosing the type and size of memory for this
computer.

I will consider the motherboard's compatibility with memory, memory capacity (like
16GB or 32GB) based on usage needs, and the memory speed (MHz) to match the CPU's
capabilities for good performance.

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 x. You are a computer technician tasked with upgrading an older computer with a slow
CPU. How might you improve its performance without replacing the entire CPU?

I’ll increase the RAM for faster data access, and change the hard disk type to SSD for
quicker data storage and retrieval. I’ll remove malware and unnecessary background
programs to reduce CPU load.

xi. Your school is planning to purchase new printers for the computer lab. Give three
advantages and disadvantages of impact and non-impact printers to help them make
a decision.

Impact Printers are cheap, noisy, low printing speed and quality but can be used for
printing utility bills, invoices and bank statements. They strike the paper during printing.
Non-impact printers are expensive, have good printing speed and quality and are used
for large-scale printing. They are similar to a photocopier, and don’t strike the paper during
printing.

xii. Define "protocol" in the context of data communication.

A protocol is a set of rules that govern data communication. It represents an agreement

between the communicating devices. Without a protocol, two devices are connected but
not communicating with each other.

xiii. Define simplex, half-duplex, and full-duplex modes of communication with one
example each.

Simplex mode
In Simplex mode, the
communication takes place in only
one direction (unidirectional). The
receiver can’t send data back to the
sender. For example, data sent to an
electronic notice board found in train
stations and airports, radio and
television broadcastings

Half-duplex mode
In half-duplex mode, the
communication takes place in both
directions but not at the same time.
The signal can only be sent or
received at one time. For example,
walkie-talkies, and communication
between a computer and a credit
card machine.

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 Full-duplex mode
In full-duplex mode, the
communication takes place in
both directions at the same time.
In this mode, both the sender
and receiver can send and
receive the data simultaneously.
For example, when two
computers communicate with
each other to send and receive
some data, a telephone network
where both people can talk and listen at the same time.

xiv. What are start and stop bits, and where are they used in data transmission?

The start bit tells the receiver that a character is coming and the stop bit indicates that the
transmission of the character has ended. This type of transmission is ideal for slow-speed
communication when gaps may occur during transmission. An example of asynchronous
transmission is keyboard data transmission.

xv. How does a switch differ from a hub in a network?

A switch is an intelligent device that sends data to the right device, making the network
faster and smoother. A hub in a non-intelligent device that sends data to all devices, which
can slow down the network because of extra traffic.

xvi. How does asynchronous transmission differ from synchronous transmission, and in
what situations are they typically used?

Asynchronous transmission sends data when ready without a fixed time interval, like
keyboard data transmission. It is good for sending messages anytime. Synchronous
transmission uses a fixed time interval for transmission, like live video calls. It is faster
and better for real-time communication.

xvii. Explain the concept of a peer-to-peer network and its limitations compared to a
client/server network.

In a peer-to-peer network, computers share files and resources directly with each other. It's
simple and doesn't need a central server. However, it can be less secure and slower for
bigger networks compared to a client/server network where a main server controls
everything, making it more organized and secure.

xviii. Compare and contrast the star and ring network topologies.

In a star topology, all devices connect to a central hub. It's easy to add or remove devices,
but if the center fails, the network also fails. It is suitable for both large and small networks
but expensive to implement.

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 In a ring topology, each device connects to two others to form a loop just like a ring. Data
travels in one direction around the loop. It's reliable but can slow down if one device fails
or data collides. It is cheap to implement but slower than all topologies.

xix. Is mesh topology considered the most reliable but also the most expensive to
implement?

Yes, mesh topology is very reliable because it has multiple paths for data to travel, so if
one path fails, data can still get through. It can manage more traffic but it's also the most
expensive to set up because it requires more cables and devices.

xx. What is the role of the Application Layer in the OSI model?

The Application Layer provides services to the end users. It interacts with the operating
system or application software whenever the user wants to end files, read messages and
perform other network-related activities.

ERQs

Q1. Describe the evolution of computer generations from the first generation to the fourth
generation, highlighting the key technological developments and their impact on
computing.

First Generation Computers (1940-1956)

First-generation computers used vacuum tubes. A vacuum tube consists of a glass tube
containing electrodes (cathode, anode, and some additional elements) and a partial vacuum.
Characteristics:
• Used vacuum tubes
• Large taking entire rooms, power-consuming machines
• Slow processing speed, limited memory
• Input: Punched cards; Output: Printouts via electric typewriters.
• Machine language programming
Examples: ENIAC, UNIVAC I, IBM 604, Mark-I, EDSAC

Second Generation Computers (1956-1963)

Second Generation replaced vacuum tubes with transistors. The transistor was faster, more
reliable, smaller and much cheaper than a vacuum tube.
Characteristics:
• Used transistors
• Smaller, faster, more reliable, cost-effective as compared to the first generation.
• Input/Output: Punch card readers, magnetic tapes, disks, printers
• Programming: Assembly language, high-level languages (FORTRAN, COBOL)
Examples: UNIVAC II, IBM 7030, GE 635, CDC 1604

Third Generation Computers (1963 - 1971)

Third-generation computers used integrated circuits (ICs) and lead to the development of
smaller, faster, and more reliable systems.
Characteristics:

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 • Used integrated circuits (ICs)
• Smaller, faster, more reliable, energy-efficient
• Ability to run multiple application programs concurrently
Examples: IBM System/360, CDC 3300, CDC 6600

Fourth Generation Computers (1971-Present)

Fourth-generation computers are characterized by the development of Large Scale Integration
(LSI), Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) chips and microprocessor. A microprocessor is a
single chip capable of handling all processing tasks within a computer.
Characteristics:
• Used Large Scale Integration (LSI), Very Large Scale Integration (VLSI) chips and
microprocessor.
• Microcomputers, exceptional speed, large storage
• Advanced input/output devices, GUIs
• Multimedia software, modern programming languages (Visual Basic, C++, Java,
Python)
• Portable and wireless devices
Examples: Pentium series, Core i3/i5/i7, AMD Athlon, IBM ThinkPad, HP Pavilion, Dell
Inspiron, Apple MacBook Pro/Air

Q2. Discuss the importance of categorizing and understanding different types of systems,
both natural and artificial, and provide examples of each type.

System: A system is a collection of interconnected components working together to achieve a

specific purpose. Systems accept inputs and produce outputs, and understanding them is crucial
for analysis, design, and optimization in various fields. It helps in solving specific challenges
in different fields.
Natural Systems: Natural systems exist in the environment, self-regulate, and maintain
stability. Examples include:

1. Ecosystems:

• Forest Ecosystems: Tropical rainforests with diverse plant and animal species.
• Aquatic Ecosystems: Freshwater lakes, rivers, and coral reefs.

2. Geological Systems:
• Plate Tectonics: Movement of Earth's plates causing earthquakes and volcanic
eruptions.
3. Biological Systems:
• Human Body: Organs, tissues, cells, and biochemical processes.

Artificial Systems: Artificial systems are human-made and designed for specific purposes.
Examples include:

1. Communication Systems:
• Internet and Computer Networks: Enable global data sharing and digital
communication.
2. Transportation Systems:
• Automobiles: Designed for personal and mass road transportation.

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 3. Energy Systems:
• Power Plants: Generate electricity using various energy sources.

Q3. Explain the characteristics and potential challenges associated with fifth generation
computers that aim to understand natural languages and possess thinking capabilities.
What are the implications of such advancements in computing on society?

Fifth Generation Computers

The timeline for the fifth generation is not as precisely defined. Fifth-generation computers
focus on AI, parallel processing, NLP, expert systems, and user-friendly interfaces, aiming to
create intelligent, interactive, and efficient machines.

Objectives

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Develop computers with the ability to learn, think, and
solve problems.
• Parallel Processing: Execute multiple tasks simultaneously for efficiency.
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): Understand and respond to human languages.
• Expert Systems (ES): Replicate human expert decision-making in specific fields.

Characteristics

• AI and Robotics: Machines that can learn, innovate, and reason.

• Parallel Processing: Handle complex tasks concurrently.
• NLP: Improved human-computer interaction.
• Expert Systems: Advanced decision-making software.
• User Interfaces: Intuitive, with voice and gesture controls

Q4. Explain the fundamental components of network communication, and how do they
work together to facilitate data transfer?

Network communication involves the exchange of

data between devices through a transmission
medium. It consists of five fundamental
components that work together to facilitate data
transfer: the sender, message, medium, protocol,
and receiver.

Sender: The sender, or transmitter, initiates the

communication by converting data into a suitable
form for transmission. This can be a computer, workstation, cell phone, or camera.

Message: The message is the actual data or information that needs to be transmitted. It can be
in the form of text, audio, video, or any combination.

Medium: The medium is the physical path through which the message travels from the sender
to the receiver. It can be wired, like telephone cables and fiber optics, or wireless, such as
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or radio waves.

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Protocol: A protocol is a set of rules governing the data communication process. It ensures
that the devices can communicate effectively by agreeing on how data is transmitted and
received. Without a protocol, the sender and receiver may not understand each other’s data.

Receiver: The receiver is the device that accepts the transmitted message and converts it into
a format that the device can understand. This can be a computer, workstation, phone, or
television.

These components work together by having the sender encode the data into a message, which
is then transmitted through the chosen medium. Protocols ensure that the sender and receiver
agree on the data format and transmission rules. The receiver then decodes the message back
into its original form for the end user, enabling effective and efficient data transfer across
different devices and networks.

Q5. Describe the roles of common communication devices like hubs, switches, routers,
and gateways in data communication. How do they contribute to the functionality of a
network?

A communication device is used in telecommunication systems for transmitting data from one
location to another.

Hub: Hub is a connectivity device used in LAN. It connects multiple LAN devices on one
network and makes them act together as a single network. A hub is a non-intelligent device
and sends output to all the devices on the network. It has multiple input/output (I/O) ports,
where input in one port results in output in all the other ports.

Switch: Switch is a networking device that performs the same job as the hub but is considered
more intelligent. It gathers information about the data packet and forwards it only to the
intended node (e.g., computer). When data is transmitted, it is broken down into packets, which
are reassembled to the original form at the destination.

Router: Router is a communication device used to connect two or more networks. When
sending data to another computer on the Internet, the router receives the data packets, looks for
the remote computer address, and forwards it based on network traffic. Many routers transmit
data packets from one location to another.

Gateway: Gateway is a device used to connect a network to another network that uses different
protocols. It changes the format of the data packets but not the content, making it conform to
the application program of the remote computer.

Q6. Discuss the advantages and limitations of different network topologies, including bus,
star, ring, and mesh. When should each topology be used in a network design?

Network topology refers to the arrangement of network nodes (devices) and the connections
between them. It is essentially a map of how devices are connected within a network.

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Bus Topology: In bus topology, each node connects to a single central cable, called a bus.

• Advantages: Suitable for small

networks, easy to connect devices, and
requires less cable.
• Limitations: If the main cable is
damaged, the entire network goes
down; difficult to troubleshoot; not
suitable for large networks.
• Use: Ideal for small, simple networks with limited devices.

Star Topology: In star topology, each node

connects to a central hub.

• Advantages: Suitable for both small

and large networks, easy to install and
wire, easy to detect and fix faults.
• Limitations: Hub failure can bring
down the entire network; more
expensive due to the need for more
cables.
• Use: Common in home and office networks due to ease of management.

Ring Topology: Ring topology connects each

node to two other nodes, forming a circular
data path.

• Advantages: Easy to install and wire,

data flows in one direction, not costly
to implement.
• Limitations: If one node fails, the
entire network can fail; slower than other topologies.
• Use: Suitable for small to medium-sized networks where data flow needs to be
streamlined.

Mesh Topology: Mesh topology connects each

node to every other node.

• Advantages: Highly reliable, data can

be rerouted if a node fails, excellent for
managing high traffic.
• Limitations: Most expensive to
implement, complex setup and
maintenance.
• Use: Best for large, critical networks where reliability and redundancy are paramount.

Choosing the right network topology depends on the network size, budget, and specific needs.
Use bus topology for small and simple networks, star topology for networks that need easy
management, ring topology for controlled data flow, and mesh topology for large, critical
networks needing high reliability.

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Q7. What is the OSI model, and how does it help in understanding the process of data
communication? Explain each of the seven layers and their functions.

The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, created by the International Standards
Organization (ISO), is a system that standardizes how different network devices communicate.
It breaks down the complex process of data communication into seven layers, each with its
own function.

Layer 7 - Application Layer:

Provides services to the end-user. It
interacts with the operating system
or application software whenever
the user wants to send files, read
messages, or perform other
network-related activities.

Layer 6 - Presentation Layer:

Takes the data provided by the
Application Layer and converts it
into a standard format that the other
layers can understand. At the
receiving end, it also formats the
information so that it looks the way
the user can understand.

Layer 5 - Session Layer: Performs

functions that enable two
applications or two pieces of the
same application to communicate across the network. It performs security, name recognition,
logging, and other similar functions. It also establishes, maintains, and ends communication
with the receiving computer.

Layer 4 - Transport Layer

Transport Layer establishes connections between two computers on the network. It handles
quality control by making sure that the data received is in the right format and the right order.

Layer 3 - Network Layer

Network Layer decides which physical pathway the data should take to reach the destination.
The communication device Router works in the network layer.

Layer 2 - Data Link Layer

Data Link Layer defines the format of data on the network. This layer converts the data into
packets and checks them before putting them on the pathway. The communication device
Switch works in this layer.

Layer 1 - Physical Layer

Physical Layer defines cables and signaling. It provides hardware means such as cables and
connectors for sending and receiving data. Cables, hubs, and repeaters work in this layer.

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Q8. Explain the evolution of the Internet from its origins to the modern day global
network. What major technological advancements contributed to its growth?

The Internet started in the 1960s as ARPANET, a project by the U.S. Department of Defense
to connect research institutions using packet-switching technology. In the 1970s, TCP/IP
protocols were developed, allowing different networks to communicate. The 1990s brought the
World Wide Web, created by Tim Berners-Lee, and web browsers like Mosaic and Netscape,
which made it easy for people to access and share information.

In the 2000s, broadband Internet increased connection speeds, and social media platforms like
Facebook and Twitter changed how people communicate. E-commerce grew with sites like
Amazon and eBay. The 2010s saw the rise of mobile Internet and smartphones, allowing people
to go online anywhere, and the Internet of Things (IoT) began connecting everyday devices.
Cloud computing also became common, making it easier to store and process data online.

Today, the Internet continues to advance with AI, 5G technology, and more IoT devices,
improving connectivity and speed. Key technologies like TCP/IP, the World Wide Web,
broadband, social media, mobile Internet, and cloud computing have all helped the Internet
grow into a vast global network.

Q9. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the Internet, considering factors like
global connectivity, information access, privacy concerns, and digital addiction.

Q10. Explore common applications of the Internet and their impact on various aspects of
society, including communication, education, business, entertainment, and research.

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The Internet has revolutionized communication, education, business, entertainment, and
research. It enables instant connectivity, provides vast information access, supports online
shopping and banking, offers diverse entertainment options, facilitates remote learning,
enhances productivity with remote work, and promotes innovation through collaborative
research tools.

AQs

Q1. Write a note on the Core Components of a Computer System.

A computer system is composed of several core components that work together to perform
various tasks. The main components include input devices, a system unit, and output devices.

Input Devices: Input devices provide data to the computer. Common examples include:

• Keyboard: Allows the user to enter letters, numbers, and symbols.

• Mouse: Controls the cursor on the screen.
• Microphone: Inputs audio.
• Scanner: Digitizes images.
• Touch Screen: Allows direct interaction with the display.

System Unit: The system unit is the main part of the computer, housing critical components
such as:

• Motherboard: The primary circuit board containing the CPU, memory, and expansion
slots.
• Microprocessor (CPU): Often referred to as the brain of the computer, it executes
instructions and processes data.
• Storage Devices: Includes hard drives and SSDs, which store programs and data not
currently in use by the CPU.

Output Devices: Output devices provide information to the user. Examples include:

• Monitors: Display visual output.

• Printers: Produce hard copies of documents.
• Speakers: Output audio.
• Plotters: Create large-scale prints of engineering drawings and designs.

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These core components work together to allow the computer to receive, process, store, and
output information, enabling it to perform a wide range of tasks efficiently and effectively.

Q2. Differentiate between RAM, ROM , Cache and Registers.

RAM (Random Access Memory): RAM is fast memory that a computer uses to store data
and instructions while tasks are being performed. It can be read from and written to, but all
data is lost when the computer is turned off. RAM helps run programs and processes efficiently.

ROM (Read Only Memory): ROM is permanent memory used to store important instructions
for starting up the computer. The data in ROM remains even when the computer is turned off.
The data stored in ROM is not easily changed.

Cache Memory: Cache is very fast memory located close to the CPU. It stores data and
instructions that the CPU uses frequently, speeding up the computer’s performance. Cache
memory is smaller than RAM but much faster.

Registers: Registers are the smallest and fastest memory units in the CPU. They hold data and
instructions that the CPU is currently processing. Registers have very limited storage capacity
but are extremely fast, helping the CPU operate efficiently.

Q3. What are the different types of registers?

Q4. Write about the Data Bus, Address Bus and Control Bus.

Q5. Explain Von Neumann Architecture. Also, draw a diagram.

Von Neumann Architecture

Von Neumann Architecture, introduced by John von Neumann in 1945, is a computer design
model where both instructions and data are stored in the same memory. This stored-program
concept allows for efficient program execution and is still used in most modern computers
today. It consists of Control Unit, Arithmetic and Logic Unit, Memory Unit, Registers and
Inputs/ Outputs.

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Main Components:

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The Central Processing Unit is the main electronic circuit responsible for executing the
instructions of a computer program. The CPU contains the ALU, CU and a variety of registers.

1. Control Unit: The Control Unit directs the operation of the computer by
fetching instructions from memory, decoding them, and executing them. It
manages the flow of data within the CPU and coordinates the activities of other
hardware components.
2. Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU): The ALU performs arithmetic operations
(like addition and subtraction) and logical operations (like comparisons). It is
essential for executing the instructions provided by programs.
3. Registers: Registers are high-speed storage areas in the CPU. All data must be
stored in a register before it can be processed.

Buses: Buses are the pathways that connect the various components of the computer, allowing
data and control signals to be transmitted. There are three main types of buses:

• Data Bus: Carries the actual data being processed.

• Address Bus: Carries information about where the data should be sent.
• Control Bus: Carries control signals to manage the operations of the computer
components.

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Memory Unit: The Memory Unit stores data and instructions that are currently being used by
the CPU. This includes both the program being executed and the data being processed.

Input/Output (I/O) Controller: This component manages the flow of data between the CPU
and the external devices like hard drives, USB devices and network interfaces. devices enable
the computer to send data to the outside (e.g., monitor, printer).

Q6. Differentiate between System and Application Software.

Feature System Software Application Software

Definition Manages and controls hardware Designed to perform specific
components of a computer system. tasks or functions for users.
Purpose Provides a platform for running application Addresses various needs and
software and managing resources like requirements of users.
memory, files, devices etc.
Interaction Facilitates interaction between user, Directly interacts with users to
application software, and hardware. perform specific tasks.
Examples • Operating systems (Windows, • Productivity software
macOS, Linux), (Microsoft Office)
• device drivers • Business software
• Utilities (QuickBooks),
• Compiler /Assembler • entertainment software
(Spotify),
• educational software
(Duolingo).

Q7. What are the main functions of an operating system?

Some functions of the operating system include:

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Q8. Differentiate between low-level and high-level programming languages.

Feature Low-Level Programming Languages High-Level Programming

Languages
Definition Low-level languages are closer to High-level languages are closer to
machine code and provide little or no human languages and provide
abstraction from a computer's instruction higher abstraction, making them
set architecture. easier to read and write.
Ease of Difficult to write, read, and debug due toEasier to write, read, and debug
Use their complexity and closeness to due to their abstraction and
hardware instructions. Certain type of resemblance to human languages.
tasks that are not possible with high-level
lanbguages can be easily written in low-
level languages.
Portability Not portable, as code is specific to a Highly portable, as code can run
particular type of computer or processor. on different types of computers
and operating systems with
minimal changes.
Examples Machine Language, Assembly Language Procedural, Object-Oriented,
Functional

Q9. Write a note on client-server and peer-to-peer network.

Client-Server Network

Client-Server Network is a type of network

where some computers, called servers, manage
and provide resources, while other computers,
called clients, use these resources. Servers are
not used as client computers. This network is
managed centrally by the servers, making it
suitable for large networks with many
computers, like office networks with dedicated
servers.

Peer-to-Peer Network

Peer-to-Peer Network is a network where all

computers can act both as servers and clients at
the same time. There is no central control, and
each computer shares its resources equally with
others. This type of network is ideal for small
networks with few computers (two to ten
computers), such as home networks where
computers share files and printers.

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Q10. Differentiate between packet and circuit switching?

Feature Packet Switching Circuit Switching

Definition It breaks data into small packets for It establishes a dedicated
transmission over a network. communication path (circuit)
between two devices
Data Packets are independently routed, Data is transmitted over a fixed path
Transmission may take different paths, and without interruption for the session
reassembled at the destination duration.
Example Sending an email over the internet Making a traditional phone call

Q11. Write about Data Communication Protocols.

Q12. Write a note on wireless networks.

Wireless Networks

Wireless networks use communication technologies to transmit data between devices without
physical cables. They can operate over short or large distances, like inside a building or
across a city.

Examples of Wireless Networks:

• Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity): Connects devices to local networks and the internet.
Example: Using home Wi-Fi for internet browsing.
• Bluetooth: Short-range communication between devices like headphones.
Example: Connecting Bluetooth headphones to your phone.
• Cellular Networks: Provides mobile communication via base stations.
Example: Using 4G/5G for internet on your phone.
• Satellite Networks: Uses satellites for wide-area communication.
Example: Satellite internet in remote areas or GPS for navigation.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wireless Networks:

Advantages Dsadavantages
Easy internet access anywhere. Can suffer from interference.
Cheaper and easier to install. Security risks like data breaches.

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 Connect many devices easily. Limited range and slower in busy areas.
Saves cost by avoiding cables. Reliability issues like dropped signals.

Q13. Give software tools with respect to each category mentioned in the book.

Image Processing Tools:

• Adobe Photoshop
• Canva.com
• GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program)

Word Processors:

• Microsoft Word
• Google Docs

Presentations:

• Microsoft PowerPoint
• Google Slides

Spreadsheets:

• Microsoft Excel
• Google Sheets

Office Suites:

• Microsoft Office Suite

• Google Workspace
• LibreOffice

Productivity Software: It helps the users create documents, presentations, spreadsheets, and
databases. It is used for office work and collaboration. For example, Office, Google
Workspace, LibreOffice.

Business Software: It is designed to help businesses with tasks like accounting, managing
projects, and customer relationships. For example, QuickBooks, Salesforce, Trello.

Entertainment Software: It is ceated for fun and relaxation, including games, music, and
streaming services. For example, Minecraft, Spotify, Netflix.

Educational Software: It helps with learning and teaching. It includes tools for students and
teachers to learn and test their knowledge. For example, Learning Management Systems
(LMS), Kahoot!, Duolingo.

Programming Languages:

• Scratch
• Visual Basic

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 • C
• Java
• Pascal

Q14. Your school wants to set up a network system where every classroom computer can
share files and resources easily. Would it be better to connect all the computers in one
long line (like a bus), or to have each computer connected to a central server in the school
office (like a star)? Compare and contrast network topologies in terms of security, cost,
size, and architecture.

Aspect Bus Topology Star Topology

Security Less secure; all data travels on More secure; each computer connects
a single cable shared by all directly to the central hub.
computers.
Cost Cheaper, requires less cable. More expensive due to additional cables
and the need for a central hub.
Size Suitable for small networks; not Suitable for both small and large
ideal for large networks. networks.
Architecture Computers are connected in a Computers connect to a central hub. Hub
single line. A cable failure stops failure affects the whole network, but
the entire network. individual cable failures do not.

A Star topology is better for your school due to its scalability and improved security, despite
the higher cost.

Q15. Illustrate at least four (04) components of data communication with the help of a
diagram

Data communication consists of a sender, message,

medium, and receiver. The sender sends data (message)
through a medium (e.g., cable, wireless) to the receiver,
following communication rules called protocols.

Q16. What are different communication devices?

A communication device is a device that is used in telecommunication systems for

transmitting data from one location to another and is known as a communication device.

Commonly used communication devices are Hub, Switch, Router, and Gateway.

Hub: A device used in a LAN to connect multiple devices. It is not intelligent as it sends data
to all devices in the network.

Switch: A switch is similar to a hub but it’s intelligent. It forwards data only to the device
that needs it. It processes and directs data to the correct destination using the information in
the data packet. When data is transmitted, it is broken down into packets which are
reassembled to the original form once they reach the destination.

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Router: It connects two or more networks, including networks connected to the Internet. It
forwards data by selecting the best path based on network traffic, ensuring the data reaches
the right computer.

Gateway: A device that connects networks with different protocols. It translates data formats
so they can be used by the receiving network without changing the data content.

Q17. Write a note on different types of networks.

A computer network is a system of interconnected devices communicating and sharing

resources using data transmission protocols. A computer network can be categorized into
following types:

Local Area Network (LAN): It covers a small area, like a building or nearby buildings. It
uses high-speed wired/wireless connections and contains a limited number of computers. It is
used to share applications, emails, resources like printers etc.

Wide Area Network (WAN) – also called long haul-network: It covers a large area,
connecting multiple sites across cities or countries. It connects two or more LANs and is
slower as compared to LANs.

Metropolitan Area Network (MAN): It is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN,
covering areas between 5 to 50 km using high-speed fiber optic cable or microwave
communication lines. It is used by telephone companies, internet service providers and cable
TV companies.

Virtual Private Network (VPN): It uses public infrastructure networks like the Internet to
connect remote offices or individuals to an organization's network securely and at a low cost.
It enables file sharing, video conferencing etc.

Q18. Why do we need a plotter when we have a printer?

We need a plotter because it can print large-size papers or sheets, like engineering drawings
and building designs, which are not possible to print on regular printers.

Q19. Differentiate between ink and pen plotter.

An ink plotter is used for printing images and a pen plotter is used for printing engineering
drawings, machine parts, building designs, etc.

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