Computer Networks - Question Paper &
Solution Key
Question Paper
Section A: Short Answer Questions (30 Marks)
Answer any 10 questions. Each question carries 3 marks.
1. Define VLAN and explain its main purpose in a network.
2. What is the difference between the MAC layer and the Physical layer in the OSI model?
3. State the role of VTP (VLAN Trunking Protocol) in a switched network.
4. Define Distance Vector Routing and give an example protocol.
5. How does Link State Routing differ from Distance Vector Routing?
6. Write any two advantages of using RIP protocol.
7. What is subnetting? Why is it needed?
8. What is error detection? Give one example technique.
9. Differentiate between error detection and error correction.
10. What is flow control? Why is it required in data communication?
11. Name and explain any two functions of the Transport layer.
12. What is the function of the Session layer in OSI model?
13. Mention any two differences between Network Layer and Transport Layer.
14. Define the term 'collision domain'.
15. What is the main role of the Application Layer in the OSI model?
Section B: Long Answer Questions (40 Marks)
Answer any 4 questions. Each question carries 10 marks.
1. VLANs and VTP:
a) Explain how VLANs enhance network performance and security.
b) Describe the working of VTP with its modes.
2. Routing Protocols:
a) Compare Distance Vector and Link State Routing protocols with examples.
b) Discuss the working of RIP and its limitations.
3. OSI Layers:
a) Draw and explain the OSI reference model.
b) Highlight the functions of each layer with examples of protocols used.
4. Subnetting:
a) Explain the concept of subnetting with an example using a class C network.
b) Calculate the number of possible subnets and hosts per subnet if you borrow 3 bits
from the host part.
5. Error Control and Flow Control:
a) Explain any two error detection techniques.
b) Discuss Stop-and-Wait and Sliding Window flow control methods with diagrams.
6. MAC and Data Link Layer:
a) Differentiate between logical link control (LLC) and media access control (MAC)
sublayers.
b) Explain how switches reduce collision domains in a LAN.
Section C: Case Studies (30 Marks)
Answer any 2 case studies. Each case study carries 15 marks.
Case Study 1: VLAN and VTP in a Campus Network
A university campus has multiple departments — Computer Science, Administration, and
Library. All are connected to a central switch. The network admin wants to separate
broadcast domains and manage VLAN configurations efficiently.
- Design a VLAN structure for this scenario.
- Explain how VTP can be used to propagate VLAN information.
- Discuss the benefits and possible risks of misconfigured VTP.
Case Study 2: RIP vs Link State in a Multi-Branch Organization
A company has branches in five cities connected via routers. Initially, they use RIP but face
issues with convergence time and scalability.
- Explain how RIP works in this setup and why issues occur.
- Suggest a Link State protocol alternative and explain how it would resolve these issues.
- Provide a diagram showing interconnections and protocol placement.
Case Study 3: Subnetting and Flow Control in a Corporate Network
A company has been assigned a 192.168.10.0/24 network and wants to divide it into 4
subnets for different departments. The network also has an issue with fast sender and slow
receiver.
- Design subnet addresses and calculate host capacity per subnet.
- Explain how flow control mechanisms like Sliding Window would help avoid congestion
between fast and slow devices.
Solution Key
Full solution key is included in the original answer. For neatness, use headings for each
section, short answers, long answers, and case study solutions, as provided above.
