COMPUTER NETWORKS (PE – IV) B.Tech. IV Year I Semester JNTUH R-18

• Briefly describe the history and evolution of computer networks.

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• Explain the difference between network hardware and network software.

• Compare and contrast OSI and TCP/IP reference models, highlighting the functions of each layer.

• Provide examples of different types of networks (e.g., LAN, WAN, MAN, ARPANET, Internet).

• Discuss the advantages and limitations of various transmission media like twisted-pair cables, coaxial cables, fiber optics, and wireless channels.

Unit II: Data Link Layer

• Explain the importance of framing in data transmission and its role in data link layer operations.

• Describe different methods for error detection and correction used in data link protocols.

• Analyze and compare different elementary data link protocols, including simplex protocols, stop-and-wait protocols, and sliding window protocols.

• Discuss the concept of media access control (MAC) and explain different multiple access protocols like ALOHA, CSMA/CD, and CSMA/CA.

• Describe the functionalities of wireless LANs and the role of the data link layer in their operation.

Unit III: Network Layer

• Explain the design issues and challenges involved in network layer operations.

• Compare and contrast different routing algorithms like shortest path routing, flooding, hierarchical routing, and distance vector routing.

• Discuss the concepts of broadcast, multicast, and internetworking with examples.

• Explain the principles of congestion control algorithms and their importance in network performance.

• Describe the role of the network layer in the internet architecture and its protocols.

Unit IV: Transport Layer

• Explain the services provided by the transport layer and its importance in reliable data transfer.

• Describe the key elements of transport protocols, including connection management, flow control, and error recovery.

• Compare and contrast the features and functionalities of TCP and UDP protocols.

• Analyze the factors influencing the choice of TCP or UDP in different network applications.

Unit V: Application Layer

• Explain the role and functionalities of the Domain Name System (DNS) in resolving domain names to IP addresses.

• Describe the Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) and its applications in network management.

• Discuss the working principles of electronic mail protocols and the World Wide Web.

• Analyze the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and its role in web communication.

• Briefly explain the concepts of streaming audio and video protocols and their impact on multimedia communication.

Bonus questions:

• Discuss the security challenges and solutions in computer networks.

• Describe the emerging trends and technologies in network evolution.

• Explain the role of software-defined networking (SDN) in modern network architectures.