Question 2
(a) State one difference between star and bus topologies.
(b) List four common network devices.
(c) Write the acronyms below in full:
(i) HTML;
(ii) HTTP;
(iii) ISP;
(iv) SMTP.
Observation
The expected answers were:
(a) DIFFERENCES BETWEEN BUS AND STAR TOPOLOGIES
|
BUS TOPOLOGY |
STAR TOPOLOGY |
1 |
Computers are connected with each other by a wire (which serves as a backbone) in an approximately strait manner. |
Every computer is connected with the host computer using a separate cable or wireless connection. |
2 |
If one computer in the network is damage the whole network stops working |
If one computer in the network is damaged, the network continues to function. |
3 |
It makes use of terminator at both ends of the backbone |
It does not use terminator |
4 |
The connection does not involve hub, Media access unit (MAU), concentrator, switch and access point |
The connection can be hub, MAU, concentrator, switch and access point based network |
5 |
It requires less cable length |
It requires more cable length |
6 |
It is difficult to identify faults |
It is easy to identify and remove faults (i.e. fault tolerance) |
7 |
Simple physical network can be created |
A bit complex to create |
8 |
It works best with a limited number of computers |
It works effectively with large number of computers |
9 |
It is more economical |
It is more expensive |
- EXAMPLES OF NETWORK DEVICES
- Hub
- Modem
- Router
- Gateway
- Switch
- Bridge
- Repeater
- Network Interface Card (NIC)
- Multiplexer
- ISDN terminal adapter
- Concentrator
- Wireless access point
- Media converter
(c) (i) HTML - Hypertext Markup Language
(ii) HTTP - Hypertext Transfer Protocol(iii) ISP - Internet Service Provider
(iv) SMTP - Simple Mail Transfer Protocol
The question tested candidates’ knowledge on types of network, networking devices and networking acronyms.