Computer Network Revision Activity Answers

Clarification to question 5, it’s DSL instead of Dail up as previously mentioned in 4-E

class today.

1. Purpose of the following devices:

a. Modem:​
A modem (Modulator-Demodulator) is used to convert digital data from a computer into
analog signals for transmission over phone lines and vice versa. It allows computers to
connect to the internet or other networks via telephone lines, cable, or satellite.

b. Switch:​
A switch connects multiple devices on a local area network (LAN) and uses MAC addresses
to forward data to the correct device. It helps in reducing network congestion by ensuring
data is only sent to the intended device.

c. Hub:​
A hub is a basic networking device that connects multiple devices in a network. It transmits
data to all connected devices without filtering it, leading to potential data collisions and
inefficiency, especially in large networks.

d. Router:​
A router is used to connect different networks, typically a local area network (LAN) to a wide
area network (WAN) or the internet. It routes data packets between networks and ensures
the data reaches the correct destination.

e. Network Adapter:​
A network adapter (also called a NIC – Network Interface Card) allows a device (such as a
computer) to connect to a network, either wired or wireless. It facilitates communication
between the computer and the network.

2. Device for improving communication between the computer center

and the primary block:

A router can be used to extend the signal range and improve communication between the
two buildings. A router boosts weak signals over a distance up to 80 m, but two routers can
be used.

3. Computer lab setup with 100 computers:

a. Device to connect all computers inside the lab:​
A switch is typically used to connect all computers in a lab. It helps in managing data flow
between all devices efficiently.

b. Device to connect all computers to the internet via telephone wire:​

A modem is used to connect the lab to the internet using a telephone line. It modulates and
demodulates signals for communication between the network and the internet.

4. Device establishing intelligent connections between local and external

networks:

A router is the device that establishes an intelligent connection between a local network and
an external network..

5. Economic and high-speed connectivity solutions for Mali Internet

Services:

a. Economic connection solution:​

A Digital Subscriber Line would be an affordable way to connect the head office in New
Kingston with the office in Mandeville. While the speed might be lower, it is a cost-effective
method for linking distant locations using the existing phone line infrastructure.

b. High-speed, secure connection solution:​

To ensure high speed and security, the company could use a leased line over a fiber optic
connection. These methods offer reliable, fast, and secure connections but at a higher cost.

6. Mobile communication for Montegory High School’s mobile learning

initiative:

Mobile communication can provide students with access to digital learning resources by
using mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets. These devices can connect to the
internet via mobile data or Wi-Fi to access e-books, educational videos, and online
textbooks. Schools can use mobile learning platforms or apps that allow students to view
educational content, participate in discussions, and complete assignments. Mobile networks
or Wi-Fi can enable easy access to online resources, improving learning opportunities for
students.

7. Mobile communication for Betta Potz restaurant:

Mobile communication can improve customer convenience at Betta Potz restaurant by using
a mobile app for ordering and payment. Customers can place their orders directly through
their phones, reducing wait times and enhancing convenience. Integration with mobile
payment systems such as LimePay or NCB mobile banking can make the payment
process faster and more secure. They can also use instant message, such as whatsapp to
take orders and communicate directly with customers about promotions, etc. Additionally, the
system can help streamline order management by automatically updating the kitchen and
managing inventory in real-time. They can also use Social Media to promote their brand.

8. Mobile communication for Kemar, a freelance journalist:

Kemar can use his 4G smartphone to report live updates and send multimedia content. By
using social media platforms (e.g., Twitter, Facebook) and file-sharing apps (e.g., Google
Drive, WeTransfer), he can quickly upload photos, videos, and written updates. Even with
limited internet access, mobile data networks can support real-time reporting, allowing
Kemar to keep the audience informed during the protest. Mobile communication offers the
flexibility of instant updates and the ability to reach global audiences.

Part 2

1.​ Network topology that connects all nodes to a central hub:​

The star topology connects all nodes to a central hub, with each device having a
direct connection to the central hub.

2.​ Difference between LAN and WAN:

●​ LAN (Local Area Network) is a network that covers a small geographical area like a
building or a campus. It is typically faster and less expensive.
●​ WAN (Wide Area Network) covers a larger geographical area, such as cities,
countries, or even continents. It connects multiple LANs and often uses leased lines
or the internet for communication.

3.​ Examples of wired and wireless communication media:

●​ Wired communication media:
○​ Coaxial cable
○​ Fiber optic cable
○​ Twisted pair cable
●​ Wireless communication media:
○​ Wi-Fi
○​ Bluetooth
○​ Infrared
 4.​ Protocol part of the Internet protocol suite:​
TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) is part of the Internet
protocol suite.

5.​ Features and Problems of Mobile Generations:

Generatio Features Problem

n

2G - Digital signal transmission - Slow data speeds (max 64

Kbps)

- GSM (Global System for Mobile - Limited multimedia capability

Communications)

- SMS (Short Message Service)

3G - Faster data transmission (up to 2 Mbps) - Coverage can be limited in

rural areas

- Video calls and mobile internet access

- Improved security and voice quality

4G - Higher speeds (up to 1 Gbps) - Requires more infrastructure

- Better support for high-definition video - Limited in rural areas

calls

- Improved mobile broadband experience

5G - Extremely high-speed data (up to 10 - Expensive infrastructure

Gbps) deployment

- Low latency and high reliability - Limited coverage in some

areas

- Supports IoT and smart devices

6.​Five services of the internet:

●​ Email: Sending and receiving messages over the internet.
●​ Web browsing: Accessing and navigating websites.
●​ Social media: Platforms for communication and social interaction (e.g., Facebook,
Twitter).
●​ File sharing: Transferring files over the internet (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox).
●​ Streaming services: Watching videos or listening to music online (e.g., Netflix,
YouTube).
 7.​ Advantages and disadvantages of using the internet:

Advantages:

●​ Easy access to information and resources.

●​ Connects people globally for communication and collaboration.
●​ Enables online education and learning.

Disadvantages:

●​ Security and privacy concerns.

●​ Can be a source of misinformation.
●​ Addiction or overuse of the internet.

8.​ Methods of connecting to the internet:

●​ Wi-Fi: Wireless internet connection using a router.
●​ Ethernet cable: Wired internet connection via a modem or router.
●​ Mobile data: Internet access via cellular networks (3G, 4G, 5G).

9.​ Similarities and differences between intranet, extranet, and internet:

●​ Intranet: A private network accessible only to authorized users within an
organization. It is used for internal communication and resource sharing.
●​ Extranet: A private network that extends certain resources or services to external
users, typically trusted business partners or clients.
●​ Internet: A global public network that connects millions of computers worldwide,
allowing access to information, services, and communication platforms.

10.​Definitions:
●​ Search engine: A tool for searching the web (e.g., Google).
●​ Web browser: Software for accessing and navigating websites (e.g., Chrome,
Firefox).
●​ Webpages: Individual pages on a website.
●​ Website: A collection of related web pages.
●​ Homepage: The main page of a website.
●​ Cache: Stored data to speed up web access.
●​ Podcasting: Audio or video content available for download or streaming.
●​ Blogging: Posting written content on a blog website.
●​ Email: Electronic mail system for sending and receiving messages.
●​ HTML (HyperText Markup Language): Language used to structure web pages.
●​ HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol): Protocol for transferring web pages.
●​ VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): Technology for making voice calls over the
internet.
●​ Bluetooth: Short-range wireless communication between devices.
●​ Hotspot: A location providing internet access via Wi-Fi.
●​ Wi-Fi: Wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the internet.
●​ Upload: Transferring data from a local device to a server.
●​ Download: Transferring data from a server to a local device.
●​ URL (Uniform Resource Locator): The address of a webpage or file on the internet.
●​ FTP (File Transfer Protocol): A protocol for transferring files over the internet.
●​ Hyperlinks: Links that connect one webpage to another.