Question One

1. a) Explain the OSI reference model in detail. (7 Marks)

The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a conceptual framework used to understand and
implement standard network protocols. It has seven layers, each with specific functions:

2. b) Explain the TCP/IP reference model in detail. Compare the OSI reference model with the TCP/IP
reference model. (7 Marks)

The TCP/IP model has four layers and is the backbone of the internet:

Comparison:

Layer Count: OSI has 7 layers; TCP/IP has 4 layers.

Focus: OSI is more theoretical; TCP/IP is more practical.

Protocol Support: TCP/IP directly implements protocols (e.g., TCP, IP); OSI is a conceptual framework.

3. c) List the important aspects that should be kept in mind while designing a network. (5 Marks)

Scalability: The network should be easily expandable.

Security: Protection against unauthorized access.

Reliability: Consistent network performance and uptime.

Cost-effectiveness: Budget-friendly solutions.

Redundancy: Backup systems to prevent data loss.

4. d) Explain the term bandwidth. Why is bandwidth useful? (3 Marks)

Bandwidth refers to the maximum data transfer rate of a network, measured in bits per second (bps).

Utility: Higher bandwidth allows faster data transmission, leading to better network performance and
user experience.

5. e) Describe the three categories of distortion. (3 Marks)

Attenuation: Reduction in signal strength over distance.

Noise: Unwanted interference that affects signal quality.

Delay Distortion: Different signal components arrive at different times, causing distortion.

Question Two
1. a) What is Data Communication? (5 Marks)

Data Communication refers to the exchange of data between devices through a transmission medium
(e.g., cables, wireless signals). It involves the transfer, processing, and delivery of data.

2. b) Give reasons why full duplex is more challenging than simplex and half duplex transmissions. (5
Marks)

Full Duplex allows simultaneous bidirectional communication, requiring more complex hardware and
error management compared to simplex (one-way) and half duplex (alternating two-way).

3. c) Compare Parallel and Serial transmission methods and describe the situation where Parallel
transmission is a better choice compared to Serial transmission. (5 Marks)

Parallel Transmission: Multiple bits are transmitted simultaneously over multiple channels.

Serial Transmission: Bits are transmitted sequentially over a single channel.

Better Choice: Parallel transmission is faster for short distances (e.g., within computer components) but
less efficient over long distances due to signal interference.

Question Three

1. a) What is Analogue data transmission? (5 Marks)

Analogue Data Transmission involves transmitting data using continuous signals that vary in amplitude,
frequency, or phase (e.g., radio signals, telephone lines).

2. b) Explain the use of repeaters with respect to data transmission. (5 Marks)

Repeaters amplify and regenerate signals to extend the transmission range, preventing data loss and
degradation over long distances.

3. c) Bring out the difference between Synchronous, Asynchronous, and Isochronous transmission. (5
Marks)

Synchronous: Data is transmitted at regular intervals, synchronized with a clock signal.

Asynchronous: Data is transmitted irregularly with start and stop bits (e.g., keyboards).

Isochronous: Data is transmitted in a continuous and timely manner (e.g., real-time video).

Question Four

1. a) Explain how Radio communication differs from Satellite communication. (5 Marks)

Radio Communication: Uses ground-based antennas for signal transmission over short to medium
distances.
Satellite Communication: Involves sending signals to a satellite orbiting the Earth, allowing long-distance
and global coverage.

2. b) Discuss the twisted pair cable. (5 Marks)

Twisted Pair Cable: Consists of pairs of insulated wires twisted together to reduce electromagnetic
interference. Commonly used in Ethernet networks (e.g., Cat5, Cat6 cables).

3. c) Describe co-axial cable and its uses. (5 Marks)

Co-axial Cable: Has a central conductor, insulating layer, metallic shield, and outer insulation. Used for
cable TV, internet, and radio frequency transmission due to its high bandwidth and noise resistance.

Question Five

1. a) What are the differences between parallel and serial transmission? (5 Marks)

Parallel Transmission:

Multiple bits sent simultaneously.

Faster for short distances.

Prone to signal degradation over long distances.

Serial Transmission:

Bits sent one after another.

Slower but more reliable over long distances.

2. b) Bring out the differences between TCP and UDP. (5 Marks)

TCP (Transmission Control Protocol):

Connection-oriented.

Reliable data transfer with error-checking.

Used for applications needing reliability (e.g., HTTP, FTP).

UDP (User Datagram Protocol):

Connectionless.

Faster but less reliable.

Used for real-time applications (e.g., video streaming, VoIP).

3. c) List the basic components (equipment) needed to connect a computer to the Internet. (5 Marks)
Network Interface Card (NIC)

Router

Modem

Ethernet Cable

Switch (optional for larger networks)

Question Six

1. a) Compare Tree Topology and Star Topology. (5 Marks)

Tree Topology:

Hierarchical structure with multiple levels.

Easier to manage but complex to install.

Star Topology:

Central hub connects all devices.

Easier to set up and troubleshoot but depends on the central hub.

2. b) Suppose we have to add new nodes to the network, which is the best-suited topology and why? (5
Marks)

Star Topology is preferred because adding a new node is easy and does not disrupt the entire network.

3. c) List Five Networking Devices you know. (5 Marks)

Router

Switch

Hub

Modem

Firewall