Introduction to Computer Networks
Are you feeling overwhelmed by Class 10 Computer Science Chapter 1 Questions and Answers? Computer Networks might seem like a web of wires and confusing jargon, but don’t worry! This guide simplifies everything, helping you understand how computers communicate and share data. By the end, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your exams with confidence!
What is a Computer Network?
A computer network is a system of interconnected computers and devices that communicate with each other to share data, resources, and information. The primary goal of a network is to enable seamless communication and collaboration, ensuring efficient data exchange and resource sharing among multiple devices.
In simple terms, a network allows computers to:
✅ Send and receive messages (like emails or chat)
✅ Share files and documents (without using USB drives!)
✅ Access the internet (browsing, streaming, or online gaming)
✅ Use shared resources (like printers and storage devices)
Whether it’s a small home network, a school network, or the vast internet, networks play a crucial role in keeping us connected in today’s digital world. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into types, components, and real-world applications of computer networks!
Table of Contents
What are the types of computer networks?
Computer networks can be classified based on their size, geographical coverage, and purpose. Here are the most common types:
1. Local Area Network (LAN)
A LAN is a network that operates within a small geographic area, such as a home, office, school, or campus. It enables devices to share resources like files, printers, and internet connections efficiently. LANs typically use Ethernet cables or Wi-Fi for connectivity.
📌 Example: A school network where all computers are connected to a central server.
2. Wide Area Network (WAN)
A WAN spans a large geographical area, often connecting multiple LANs across cities, countries, or continents. The internet is the largest example of a WAN, using fiber optics, satellites, and leased telephone lines for data transmission.
📌 Example: A multinational company with offices worldwide using a WAN for communication.
3. Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)
A MAN is larger than a LAN but smaller than a WAN, covering a city or metropolitan region. It provides high-speed connectivity between multiple LANs within a city, often managed by telecommunication companies.
📌 Example: A city-wide Wi-Fi network or a university campus connecting multiple buildings.
4. Personal Area Network (PAN)
A PAN is a small-scale network designed for personal use, connecting devices within an individual’s proximity (around 10 meters). It usually relies on Bluetooth, NFC, or USB connections.
📌 Example: Connecting a smartphone to a laptop via Bluetooth for file transfer.
Why hostname should not be used to identify a computer in a computer network?
A hostname should not be used to identify a computer in a computer network because hostnames can be changed easily, either intentionally or unintentionally. This means there’s no guarantee of a one-to-one relationship between a hostname and a specific device. Also multiple devices on a network can have the same hostname, leading to ambiguity and potential communication errors.
How many 16 port switches required to connect 31 computers in a network?
If we use 16-port switches and each switch can connect 16 computers, we would need at least two 16-port switches to connect 31 computers in a network.
FILL IN THE BLANKS:
1. The hostname command is used to display _____.
Ans: Name of the computer.
2. The length of a IPv4 and a IPv6 is ____ and___.
Ans: 32 bit & 128 bit.
3. An access point is used to connect _____.
Ans: Wireless network.
4. The ping command is used to verify ____.
Ans: The connectivity between two computers.
5. HTTPS transfer ______ data.
Ans: Encrypted.
MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTIONS:
1. Which device is required to connect multiple heterogeneous networks?
- (A) Hub
- (B) Switch
- (C) Router
- (D) Access Point
Ans: (C) Router.
2. Which is the largest type of computer network?
- (A) PAN
- (B) LAN
- (C) MAN
- (D) WAN
Ans: (D) WAN.
3. Which protocol transfers encrypted data instead of plain data?
- (A) HTTP
- (B) HTTPS
- (C) FTP
- (D) SMTP
Ans: (B) HTTPS.
4. How many bytes are reserved for OUI in a MAC address?
- (A) 3
- (B) 8
- (C) 24
- (D) 12
Ans: (C) 24.
5. IP address can be automatically assigned if the network is connected with
- (A) Access Point
- (B) Mail Server
- (C) Web Server
- (D) DHPC Server
Ans: (D) DHPC Server.
Short Answer Questions
- What is the role of a DHCP server in a network?
- A DHCP server automatically assigns IP addresses to devices in a network.
- Explain the difference between a hub and a switch.
- A hub broadcasts data to all devices, whereas a switch sends data only to the intended device.
- Why is IPv6 considered superior to IPv4?
- IPv6 has a larger address space (128-bit) and offers better security features than IPv4.
- What is the purpose of an OUI in a MAC address?
- The OUI (Organizationally Unique Identifier) identifies the manufacturer of a network device.
- Define a “node” in a computer network.
- A node is any device (computer, printer, or server) connected to a network.
Application-Based Questions
Your school has 50 computers. Each 24-port switch reserves 2 ports for uplinking. How many switches are needed?
- Each switch supports 22 computers (24 ports – 2 uplink ports).
- 50 ÷ 22 = 2.27 → 3 switches required.
Identify the device used in the following scenarios:
(a) Connecting a laptop to a Wi-Fi network → Access Point
(b) Linking a LAN in Delhi to a LAN in Mumbai → Router
(c) Preventing duplicate hostnames in a network → DHCP Server (assigns unique IPs; hostname management depends on network policies)
Match the Following
| Column A | Column B |
|---|---|
| 1. HTTPS | (b) Encrypted communication |
| 2. IPv4 | (a) 32-bit address |
| 3. PAN | (c) Bluetooth |
| 4. OUI | (d) 24-bit identifier |
Case Study-Based Question
Scenario: A small office has 20 employees. They need to:
- Share files and a printer.
- Access the internet securely.
- Assign IP addresses automatically.
Questions & Answers:
- Which type of network (LAN/WAN/MAN) is suitable? → LAN (Local Area Network).
- Name two devices required for this setup. → Switch (for connecting devices) and Router (for internet access).
- Which protocol ensures secure internet access? → HTTPS (for secure web browsing).
Diagram-Based Question
Label the following network components:
(A simple LAN with a router, switch, and three computers.)
Possible Labels:
- Router
- Switch
- Ethernet cables
- Devices (PC1, PC2, PC3)
Advanced Question
Explain why MAC addresses are still used even though IP addresses exist.
- MAC addresses are physical, permanent identifiers for devices.
- IP addresses are logical and can change (e.g., assigned by DHCP).
- MAC ensures data reaches the correct device within a local network.
