Network Devices and Protocols

Question 1

Explain the functions of each of the following:

(i) Router
(ii) Firewall
(iii) DSL modem

Answer 1

i) Router: Directs data traffic between different networks, making decisions based on routing tables.
(ii) Firewall: Controls and monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules.
(iii) DSL Modem: Enables high-speed internet access over a telephone line.

Question 2

List any protocol found at the following layers of the OSI reference model or TCP/IP protocol suite:

(i) Transport layer
(ii) Network or Internet layer
(iii) Application layer

Answer 2

(i) Transport layer: TCP (Transmission Control Protocol), UDP (User Datagram Protocol)
(ii) Network or Internet layer: IP (Internet Protocol)
(iii) Application layer: HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), FTP (File Transfer Protocol)

Question 3

List any three network end devices.

Answer 3

Computer
Printer
Smartphone

Question 4

State two differences between TCP and UDP protocols as used in the Transport Layer of the OSI model.

Answer 4

Connection Orientation: TCP is connection-oriented, ensuring reliable and ordered delivery, while UDP is connectionless and does not guarantee order or reliability.
Error Handling: TCP provides error checking and correction through acknowledgment and retransmission, whereas UDP does not include error recovery mechanisms.

Question 5

Define Internet

Answer 5

The global network that connects millions of private, public, academic, business, and government networks worldwide.

Question 6

Define Intranet

Answer 6

A private network within an organization that uses internet technologies to securely share information, collaboration tools, and other resources among its members.

Question 7

Define Extranet

Answer 7

A controlled private network that allows organizations to share specific resources or information with external partners, such as customers or suppliers.