Question 1: Define a Local Area Network (LAN) and a Wide Area Network (WAN). Highlight two key differences between them.

Answer: A LAN is a network that connects computers within a small geographical area, such as a school or office. A WAN covers a much larger area, often connecting multiple LANs across cities or countries. Key differences include their geographical range and the technologies used; LANs are typically faster and use Ethernet, while WANs use technologies like the internet or leased lines.

Question 2: Describe a typical scenario where a LAN would be used in a school setting.

Answer: A LAN in a school might connect all the computers in the computer lab, enabling students and teachers to share files, access shared printers, and use the internet through a central network.

Question 3: Explain why WANs are essential for multinational companies.

Answer: WANs allow multinational companies to connect offices and data centers across different countries, enabling communication, data sharing, and coordination regardless of geographical distance.

Question 4: Complete the following truth table for an AND gate: Inputs A and B, and output C.

Answer: A | B | C ---|---|--- 0 | 0 | 0 0 | 1 | 0 1 | 0 | 0 1 | 1 | 1

Question 5: Draw a logic circuit for an OR gate with two inputs, labeled A and B. Label the output as C.

Answer: A correct sketch would show the OR gate symbol with two input lines labeled A and B entering it, and an output line labeled C leaving the gate. The OR gate symbol should be a curved shape with a pointed end.

Question 6: What is the main advantage of using a LAN over a WAN within a school building?

Answer: LANs are faster and more reliable within a small area like a school building, providing quicker data transfer and easier management.

Question 7: Identify two types of physical media used for connecting devices in a LAN.

Answer: Ethernet cables (such as Cat 5 or Cat 6) and Wi-Fi (wireless connection).

Question 8: Sketch a simple diagram showing how multiple computers connect to a central device in a star topology LAN.

Answer: A central hub or switch with lines radiating out to several computers, forming a star shape. Each computer connects independently to the central device.

Question 9: Describe one potential disadvantage of relying solely on a WAN for a company's internal communications.

Answer: WANs are generally slower and more prone to delays or disruptions compared to LANs, which can affect the efficiency of internal communications.

Question 10: Explain how the internet is an example of a WAN.

Answer: The internet is a global network connecting many smaller networks (LANs and other networks) across the world, making it a prime example of a Wide Area Network.

Question 11: Draw a simple diagram of a network connecting three computers and a shared printer in a LAN environment.

Answer: The diagram should show three computers connected to a central switch or hub, with a shared printer also connected to the same hub or switch. Lines represent the connections.