. What Is a Network?

A network is a group of connected devices that share information or resources. These

devices communicate with each other over the network, which can be wired or wireless,
and can vary in size from a small home network to a large global one, like the Internet.

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2. How Are Network Types Classified? Explain the

Difference.
Network types are characterized based on their size, geographical dispersion, and how
devices connect. The fundamental distinction between these network types is their
geographical range and the devices they link.

Type Description

LAN (Local Area Network) Connects devices within a small area, such as a single building or office.

WAN (Wide Area Network) Connects devices over a large geographical area, such as across cities or ev

MAN (Metropolitan Area

Connects devices within a city or metropolitan area.
Network)

PAN (Personal Area

Connects devices that are close to an individual, such as a smartphone or p
Network)

GAN (Global Area Network) Connects mobile devices across multiple countries, continents, or even acr
WLAN (Wireless Local Area
Type of LAN that uses wireless communication instead of physical cables t
Network)

VLAN (Virtual Local Area A virtual network that is created within a physical LAN. It allows you to divi
Network) into multiple logical LANs, each with its broadcast domain.

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3. What Is a Data Packet?

A data packet is a unit of data that is transferred over a network. It includes data and
control information, including the source, destination addresses, and error-checking
information.

When you send an email, your computer breaks it down into data packets to send it
over the network. On the receiving end, the packets are reassembled into the original
message. Data packets enable us to send data efficiently over long distances.

4. What Are Routers?

Routers are devices that connect various networks and help the devices on those
networks communicate with each other. This is done by routing data packets between
networks based on destination addresses.

5. What’s the Difference Between Hub, Switch, Router,

and Gateway?
In a computer network, Hubs, Switches, Routers, and Gateways are all networking
devices that serve different purposes. Here's a brief explanation of each.

Device Description

Hub A basic networking device that links several devices in a network by broadcasting data from o
 devices connected to it.

A higher-level networking device that links numerous devices in a network and, unlike a hub, e
Switch
addresses to transmit data solely to the desired device rather than broadcasting to all devices

A networking device that links various networks and directs data packets according to their de
Router Routing tables, which indicate the optimal path for data to travel to reach its destination, are u
judgments on how to transmit data.

A device that serves as the entry point to a different network or as an interface between two d
Gatewa
gateway can be a router, but it can also be a computer or another type of device that provides
y
connect two different networks.

In summary, hubs broadcast data to all connected devices, switches forward data based
on the hardware address, routers forward data depending on the destination address,
and gateways provide entry to another network or perform functions such as protocol
translation. These are common interview questions for network technicians, so make
sure you know the differences.

6. What Is a VPN?
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a secure network connection between a device and a
network. It does this by encrypting data, making them useful for online privacy, securing
connections, and accessing geo-restricted resources. There are several types of VPNs.

Type Description

Remote Access VPN Enables remote users to securely access a company's network.

Site-to-Site VPN Connects multiple fixed locations over a public network.

Intranet-based VPN Used to securely connect to a company’s intranet.

Extranet-based VPN Connects a company to its partners or suppliers.

Consumer VPN Designed for individuals to protect their online privacy and security.

Dedicated VPN A private network set up for a single organization.

Mobile VPN Designed for mobile devices to provide secure access to a network.

7. What Is the Difference Between Links and Nodes?

Nodes are network-connected devices like computers, routers, and servers, while links
are the connections between nodes that allow them to communicate. This means that
nodes are the endpoints of communication and links are the channels that enable
communication.

This is another of those networking basics interview questions that you should be able to
answer without blinking!

8. What Is the Purpose of a Firewall in a Network?

A firewall controls incoming and outgoing network traffic to protect a network from
unwanted access. Serving as the initial line of protection, they monitor and filter traffic
based on security rules. Firewalls can be either hardware or software-based.
9. What Is the Difference Between HTTP and HTTPS?
What Ports Do They Use?
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) are
two very common data transmission technologies that provide comparable functions,
but differ in security and port use.

Type Description

A stateless, application-level protocol for online data transmission. It is the basic protocol utilize
HTTP
and is used to convey data between a client and a server. By default, HTTP communicates on po
 A variation of an HTTP that enables encrypted and secure communication between a client and
HTTPS
(Transport Layer Security) or SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). HTTPS communicates on port 443.

10. What Are the Different Types of IP Addresses?

There are four types of IP addresses used in networking: public IP addresses, private IP
addresses, static IP addresses, and dynamic IP addresses. They differ in their function
and behavior.

Type Description

Public IP Assigned to Internet-connected devices. They are unique and globally identifiable, allo
address communicate with each other over the Internet.

Private IP Used within a private network and are not intended to be accessible over the Internet.
address devices like computers, printers, and routers in local area networks (LANs).

Static IP Allocated to a device that does not change over time. This sort of IP address is benefici
address stable IP address, such as servers or websites.

Dynamic IP
Temporary address issued to a device that does not need a constant IP address, such a
address

Reserved IP
An address reserved for special purposes, such as 127.0.0.1 for the localhost.
address

This is another of our basic network interview questions that you need to know!

11. What Is Ethernet?

Ethernet is a collection of wired networking technologies used for transmitting data
between devices and is the de facto standard for local area networks (LANs).

Ethernet networks utilize a physical and data link layer to transmit data between
devices.The physical layer defines the electrical and mechanical specs for data
transmission over the cable, and the data link layer defines how data is packaged and
transmitted between devices.

12. What Is the Difference Between an Encoder and a

Decoder?
An encoder converts information to a new format, while a decoder reverses the process
to retrieve the original data. Both use algorithms and techniques for data compression
and security.

13. What Is Localhost?

Localhost refers to the computer you're currently using. You can connect to it using the
IP address 127.0.0.1, which is reserved for the "loopback" interface that allows a
computer to communicate and send data to itself. Connecting to localhost is helpful for
testing and development, including testing whether a web server is functional.

14. What Are the Different Types of Data Transferring

Modes?
Mode Description Example

Simplex Data flow in unidirectional TV broadcast

Half- Data flows in both directions (transmit & receive), but not at the same
Walkie-talkie, citize
duplex time.

Telephone, interne
Full-duplex Data can flow in both directions (transmit & receive) at the same time.
conferencing
15. Describe the Steps to Troubleshoot a Network
Connectivity Issue?
Step One Identify the symptoms of the issue and then check if the problem is with the specific devic

Step Two Check all cables, power supplies, and network devices for physical connectivity.

Step Three Check the IP and DNS configurations to ensure they are correct.

Step Four Check if any firewalls are blocking the connection.

Step Five Use diagnostic tools such as traceroute, nslookup, and netstat.

Step Six If the issue persists, gather data, including network logs and traces.

Step Seven Work with the network administrator or service provider to resolve the issue.

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Intermediate Networking Interview

Questions and Answers

16. What Is the Difference Between Ipconfig and

Ifconfig?
They are command-line tools used to view and configure network settings, including
changes to the DHCP and DNS settings.

Feature ipconfig ifconfig

Definition Internet Protocol Configuration Interface Configuration

Platform Windows Linux/Unix

Displays IP address, subnet mask, default gateway IP address, network interf

17. What Is the Purpose of the Ping Command?

Ping is a diagnostic tool to test network connectivity that sends an ICMP echo request
to a target device and waits for a response.

The purpose of pinging is to verify that a network device is responsive and to measure
the time it takes for data packets to travel to/from the source. Pinging can help identify
network issues (like packet loss) and is often used in troubleshooting.

18. What Is the OSI Reference Model? Describe the

Layers.
The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) reference model is a seven-layer architecture
that specifies how data is conveyed across a network. The OSI model provides a
standardized approach to network communication that enables devices to coexist. The
layers are as follows:

Layer Description

Physical Deals with the physical aspects of data transmission, such as voltage levels, cable specifica

Delivers data frames between devices on a particular network segment. This includes erro
Data Link
flow control, and media access.

Network Routes data from one network using the most optimal route, determined by IP addresses.

Transport Provides end-to-end transmission services and ensures reliable data delivery.

Session Creates, manages, and ends sessions between applications. It guarantees that data is trans
Presentation Formats, encrypts, and compresses data for transmission.

Serves as the interface between the user and the network and provides services like file tra
Application
logins.

19. What Is the TCP/IP Model? Describe the Layers.

The TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) reference model uses a
four-layer architecture to provide a standard for online data transmission. The layers are
as follows:

Layer Description

Delivers services directly to the host’s apps. It covers protocols needed to transport data
Application
SMTP.

Transport Provides dependable data transmission services between apps using TCP and UDP (User

Internet Handles the routing and forwarding of data packets throughout the network using IP.

Network Offers data connection services between network devices like switches and routers using
Access Protocol (ARP) and Internet Control Message Protocol (ICMP).

20. What Is the MAC Address and How Is It Different

From the IP Address?
A MAC (Media Access Control) address is a physical address in the form of a unique 48
bit identifier for a NIC (Network Interface Card) that is used for network communication
inside a network segment. An example of a MAC address is 00:1A:2B:3C:4D:5E.

An IP address is a logical identifier to find a device on the internet or on a network. They

are assigned by a network administrator and can change. An example of an IP address is
192.0.2.1.

21. What Is a Subnet and How Is a Subnet Mask Used

to Divide a Network Into Smaller Subnets?
A subnet is a logical sub-section of a larger network to improve organization, security,
and performance. A subnet mask is a 32-bit value that is combined with an IP address to
divide a network into smaller sections, known as subnets.
For example, the IP address 192.168.1.1 with a subnet mask of 255.255.128.0 would have
a subnet range of 192.168.0.1 - 192.168.127.254. With the subnet mask you can identify
the part of an IP address that refers to the network address and the part for the host.

22. What Is a Proxy Server?

A proxy server is a server that acts as an intermediary between clients and servers. It
provides access control, security, caching, and anonymity for clients and can be used to
improve the performance and security of a network.

23. What Is Network Topology? Describe the Different

Types.
A network topology refers to how devices in a network are linked to one another and
how data is carried between those devices. The types of network topologies are as
follows:

Topolog
Description
y

Devices are linked together by a single central connection known as a bus, which serves as a
Bus
channel.

Star Devices are connected to a central hub, with each device having a dedicated point-to-point

Ring Devices are connected in a circular pattern, with data traveling through each device and retu
Mesh Each device in the network has a direct link to every other device, allowing data to move via

A hierarchical topology in which devices are grouped in a tree-like arrangement, with a cent
Tree
device branches.

Hybird Uses two or more differing network topologies, and can include a mix of the others liste abo

This is one of the most essential network architecture interview questions, so pay
attention!

24. What Is an IPv4 Address and the Different Classes

of IPv4?
An IPv4 address is a unique numerical value that’s assigned to every internet-connected
device. These are divided into different classes based on their value range to help
organize the Internet.

Class Range of First Octet Number of Networks Number of Hosts Per Network

A 1 to 127 126 16,777,214 (large organizations an

B 128 to 191 16,382 65,534 (medium-sized organizatio

C 192 to 223 2,097,150 254 (small organizations and hom

D 224 to 239 N/A Multicasting

E 240 to 255 N/A Research/experimental use

25. What Is a DMZ and Why Is It Used in Networking?

A Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) is a secured network area used for public-facing services,
acting as a buffer between the internet and internal network to increase security and
protect sensitive data. It’s used in networking as a way to isolate potential threats and
keep data safe.

26. What Is a DNS?

DNS (Domain Name System) is used to translate human-readable domains like hackr.io
into an IP address, allowing computers to identify and communicate with each other
over the internet.

27. What Is BGP and How Does It Work in a Network?

The Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is a routing protocol that allows routers to
communicate and find the best way to route traffic. It creates routing tables to optimize
traffic flow and ensures efficient data packet delivery. BGP is crucial for large networks
to prevent congestion and rerouting traffic if necessary.

Advanced Network Interview Questions

and Answers

28. What Are CIDR Blocks?

Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR) is a method of allocating IP addresses and
defining network boundaries. CIDR blocks are defined via the combination of an IP
address and a subnet mask, enabling the specification of which addresses are included
in the block.

For example, the CIDR block 192.168.0.0/24 would include all IP addresses from
192.168.0.0 to 192.168.0.255, with the subnet mask being 255.255.255.0.

CIDR blocks are commonly used by ISPs to allocate IP addresses to customers and by
organizations to define their network boundaries and to efficiently manage their IP
address space.

29. What Is the Difference Between TCP and UDP

Protocols?
TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol) are both
protocols for sending send data over the Internet, with the primary difference being the
way they transmit data.

Feature TCP UDP

Type Connection-oriented Connectionless

Reliability High - ensures all packets are received and in order Low - packets may be lost

Faster due to no overhead

Speed Slower due to establishing and maintaining connections
establishment

Packets Ordered Unordered

Error Yes - includes error checking and retransmission of lost Limited - includes basic err
checking packets retransmit lost packets

Suitable for applications where data accuracy and reliability are Suitable for applications w
Usage
important, such as web browsing and file transfer such as online gaming and

This is one of the most popular computer networks interview questions, so be sure to know
this!

30. What Is the DHCP Protocol?

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is a network protocol that automatically
assigns IP addresses to networked devices. This happens when a device connects to a
network, as it sends an IP address request, which the DHCP server responds to.

31. What Is the ARP Protocol and How Does It Map an

IP Address to a Physical Address in a Network?
ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) is a networking protocol that maps IP addresses to
physical MAC addresses. A device first checks its ARP cache for the physical address, and
if not found, broadcasts an ARP request to all network devices to obtain it. The device
with the matching IP address responds with the physical address, which is then saved in
the ARP cache.

32. What Is the FTP Protocol?

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a network protocol that’s used to transfer files between
devices over the Internet via a client-server model. And while it’s being replaced by
more secure protocols like SFTP and SCP, it’s still widely used.

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win!

33. What Is the SNMP Protocol and Describe Its

Architecture?
SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) monitors and manages network devices
via a client-server architecture. With this, NMS (Network Management Systems) can
request information about device performance and configuration.

It also uses MIB (Management Information Base) objects to represent device

performance, allowing network managers to monitor their networks.

34. What Are Unicasting, Anycasting, Multicasting, and

Broadcasting?
These are all methods of transmitting data in computer networks but differ depending
on the specific requirements and nature of the data transmission.

Type Description

Unicasting The delivery of data from a single source to a single network device. It’s a one-on-one co

The delivery of data from a single source to the nearest possible destination based on rou
Anycasting
a one-to-nearest communication model.

The delivery of data from a single source to several destinations on a network. It’s a one-t
Multicasting
model.

Broadcasting The delivery of data from a single source to all possible destinations on a network. It’s a o
 model.

35. What Is Quality of Service (QoS) And How Is It

Used to Manage Network Traffic?
Quality of Service (QoS) is used to regulate network traffic by prioritizing traffic types
and allocating bandwidth efficiently, improving network performance and user
experience.

It can be used to avoid congestion by prioritizing crucial traffic over lower-priority as per
the network’s requirements. For instance, this may mean giving priority to audio and
video over email and file transfers.

36. How Does IPv6 Address Space Differ From IPv4?

Feature IPv6

Address Length 128 bits

Address Format Hexadecimal

Address Space 2^128

Header Fixed length

Address Masks No

QoS Yes

DNS Record AAAA

Example Address 2001:0db8:85a3:0000:0000:8a2e:0370:7334

 37. What Is MPLS and How Is It Used in a Network?
MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) uses short labels instead of lengthy network
addresses to route network traffic, and it’s often used to provide QoS and VPNs.

38. What Is the Relationship Between a NIC and NAT,

and How Do They Work Together to Enable Network
Communication?
A NIC (network interface card) is a hardware device that enables a computer to connect
to a network, whereas NAT (Network Address Translation) is a protocol used to translate
private IP addresses to public IP addresses, allowing communication over the internet.

When a computer with a NIC sends a request to an online server, the NAT protocol is
used to translate the IP address, enabling the communication to take place. These are
often used together to troubleshoot network connectivity issues.

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Networking Interview Multiple Choice

Questions

39. What Is the Main Function of a Router in a

Network?
 To provide network security
 To connect multiple networks
 To manage data storage
 To control network access

40. What Protocol Is Used for File Transfers Over a

Network?
 FTP
 HTTP
 SMTP
 TCP

41. What Is the Most Commonly Used IP Address

Range for Private Networks?
 192.0.0.0 - 192.255.255.255
 10.0.0.0 - 10.255.255.255
 127.0.0.0 - 127.0.0.1
 169.254.0.0 - 169.254.255.255

42. What Is the Purpose of a Firewall in a Network?

 To filter incoming and outgoing network traffic
 To provide network security
 To manage network access
 All of the above

43. What Is the Difference Between TCP and UDP

Protocols?
 TCP is connection-oriented, UDP is connectionless
 TCP is unreliable, UDP is reliable
 TCP is fast, UDP is slow
 TCP is for voice, UDP is for video

44. What Is the Purpose of Subnetting in a Network?

 To improve network security
 To divide a large network into smaller subnets
 To improve network performance
 To simplify network management

45. What Is the OSI Model Used for in Networking?

 To standardize data transfer between devices
 To ensure compatibility between different networking devices
 To control access to a network
 To manage network resources

46. What Is the Difference Between a Static and a

Dynamic IP Address?
 A static IP address does not change, a dynamic IP address changes
frequently
 A static IP address is used for public access, a dynamic IP address is used for
private access
 A static IP address is assigned by a network administrator, and a dynamic IP
address is assigned automatically by a DHCP server
 A static IP address is faster, and a dynamic IP address is slower

47. What Is the Role of DNS in a Network?

 To assign IP addresses to devices
 To provide access to web services
 To resolve domain names to IP addresses
 To manage network traffic

48. What Is the Purpose of VLANs in a Network?

 To isolate network traffic
 To simplify network management
 To improve network performance
 To increase network security.