Question 1: Describe the main characteristics of a star topology in a computer network. Include how devices are connected and any advantages or disadvantages.

Answer: In a star topology, all devices are connected to a central device called a hub or switch. The devices communicate through this central point. Advantages include easy to manage and troubleshoot; disadvantages include reliance on the central device, which can be a point of failure.

Question 2: List three common types of network topologies and briefly explain one key feature of each.

Answer: 1. Star topology: All devices connect to a central hub or switch. 2. Bus topology: All devices share a single communication line. 3. Ring topology: Devices are connected in a circular fashion, with each device connected to two others.

Question 3: A network consists of four computers connected in a line, with each connected to the next. Which type of topology is this, and what are its main advantages?

Answer: This is a bus topology. Its main advantages are simplicity and cost-effectiveness for small networks.

Question 4: Draw a diagram of a ring topology network, showing five computers connected in a circle. Label each computer as C1, C2, C3, C4, and C5.

Answer: [DRAWING TASK] A correct sketch would show five computers arranged in a circle, each connected to two neighbours, forming a closed loop. Label each as C1 through C5.

Question 5: Complete the following truth table for an AND gate: | Input A | Input B | Output | |---------|---------|---------| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

Answer: Input A | Input B | Output --- | --- | --- 0 | 0 | 0 0 | 1 | 0 1 | 0 | 0 1 | 1 | 1

Question 6: Explain why a mesh topology might be used in a large business network. Mention at least two reasons.

Answer: A mesh topology provides high redundancy and fault tolerance, as each device is connected to multiple other devices. It also offers high data transfer speeds and reliable communication, making it suitable for large networks.

Question 7: Identify the type of topology described: A network where all devices are connected via a single central cable, and if the cable fails, the entire network is affected.

Answer: This is a bus topology.

Question 8: Sketch a star topology network with six devices connected to a central hub. Label the central device as 'Hub' and each computer as C1 to C6.

Answer: [DRAWING TASK] The sketch should show a central circle labeled 'Hub' with six lines radiating outward, each ending with a device labeled C1 through C6.

Question 9: Describe one advantage and one disadvantage of using a bus topology in a network.

Answer: Advantage: Simple and inexpensive to set up. Disadvantage: If the main cable fails, the entire network stops working.

Question 10: What is a hybrid topology? Provide an example of how it might be used in a real-world setting.

Answer: A hybrid topology combines two or more different types of topologies, such as star and bus. For example, a school network might have a star topology within each classroom and a bus topology connecting different classrooms.

Question 11: Explain the difference between a logical topology and a physical topology in a network.

Answer: Physical topology refers to the actual physical layout of the cables and devices. Logical topology describes how data flows within the network, regardless of physical layout.