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In summary, the Session Layer manages and controls communication sessions, the Presentation Layer handles data
translation and format issues, and the Data Link Layer is responsible for framing, addressing, error detection, and access
control in local network communications. Each layer plays a critical role in ensuring reliable and secure data
transmission within the OSI model.
(b) Compare between computer network and distributed system.
> A computer network and a distributed system are both concepts related to interconnected computing environments,
but they serve distinct purposes:
Computer Network:
1. Definition: A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices, such as computers, servers, and
peripherals, that are linked together to enable communication and resource sharing.
2. Focus: The primary focus of a computer network is efficient data communication and resource sharing, often
across larger distances.
3. Key Aspect: Computer networks emphasize the establishment of connectivity and the transmission of data
between devices, with protocols like TCP/IP being fundamental for communication.
Distributed System:
1. Definition: A distributed system is a network of independent computers that work together as a single system,
sharing resources and processing tasks in a coordinated manner.
2. Focus: The main emphasis of a distributed system is to provide a unified computing environment, where
multiple computers collaborate to achieve a common goal, such as parallel processing or fault tolerance.
3. Key Aspect: Distributed systems focus on seamless integration of hardware and software resources, often
requiring complex coordination algorithms and middleware for communication and synchronization.
In summary, a computer network is primarily concerned with connecting devices and facilitating data exchange, while a
distributed system is more focused on leveraging the collective power of multiple computers to accomplish complex
tasks efficiently and effectively.
(c) Suppose a computer network with 5 layers where application layer generates a message of m bytes
and each layer adds h bytes header. What fraction of network bandwidth is wasted by all layers?
>To calculate the fraction of network bandwidth wasted by all layers due to headers, we need to consider the total
overhead introduced by headers across all layers. Let's break this down step by step:
1. Application Layer: The application layer generates a message of m bytes.
2. Transport Layer: This layer adds its own header to the message. So, the total size of the message at this point is
(m + h) bytes.
3. Network Layer: The network layer adds its header, making the total size (m + 2h) bytes.
4. Data Link Layer: Here, the data link layer includes its header, resulting in a total size of (m + 3h) bytes.
5. Physical Layer: Finally, the physical layer may introduce some additional framing or signaling overhead, making
the total size (m + nh) bytes, where 'n' represents the cumulative header size introduced by all layers.
Fraction wasted = (Total overhead due to headers) / (Total message size after headers)
This formula represents the fraction of network bandwidth that is wasted by all layers due to the headers they add.
So, the fraction of network bandwidth wasted by all layers is (nh) / (m + nh).
(d) What is network topology? Discuss any one network topology.
Network topology refers to the physical or logical layout or arrangement of interconnected devices (nodes) in a
computer network. It defines how devices are connected to each other and how data is transmitted between them.
Network topology plays a crucial role in determining the efficiency, reliability, and scalability of a network. There are
several types of network topologies, and each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Star Topology:
One network topology that can be discussed is the "Star Topology." In a star topology, all devices (computers, printers,
servers, etc.) are connected to a central hub or switch. The central hub acts as a mediator for data communication. Here
are some key points about the star topology:
1. Central Hub: In a star topology, the central hub or switch is the focal point of the network. All devices connect
directly to this central point.
2. Easy Management: Star topologies are relatively easy to manage because each device is connected directly to
the central hub. This makes it straightforward to add or remove devices from the network without disrupting
other connections.
3. Fault Tolerance: If one device or cable fails in a star topology, it doesn't affect the rest of the network. Only the
malfunctioning device loses connectivity, ensuring fault tolerance.
4. Scalability: Star topologies are easily scalable. You can add more devices by simply connecting them to the
central hub.
5. Performance: The performance of a star network can be good, especially if the central hub has high-speed
capabilities. However, the network's overall performance can be impacted if the central hub becomes a
bottleneck due to heavy traffic.
6. Cost: Implementing a star topology can be costlier than some other topologies, as it requires more cabling (each
device connects directly to the central hub).
In summary, network topology defines how devices are interconnected in a network, and one of the common
topologies is the star topology. It offers advantages such as easy management, fault tolerance, and scalability, but it may
be more expensive to set up initially. The choice of network topology depends on factors like the organization's
requirements, budget, and expected network traffic.
3. (a) Discuss transmission characteristics of optical fibre cable and microwave in details. (8+3+2+3=16)
> Transmission Characteristics of Optical Fiber Cable:
Optical fiber cables are a key technology for long-distance and high-speed data transmission. They use light signals to
transmit data, offering several important transmission characteristics:
1. High Bandwidth: Optical fibers provide an exceptionally high bandwidth. This means they can carry a large
amount of data simultaneously, making them suitable for transmitting high-definition video, large files, and
massive amounts of data in telecommunications networks.
2. Low Attenuation: Attenuation refers to the loss of signal strength as it travels through the medium. Optical
fibers have very low attenuation, which means that light signals can travel over long distances without
significant signal degradation. This makes optical fibers ideal for long-haul communications.
3. Immunity to Electromagnetic Interference (EMI): Unlike traditional copper cables, optical fibers are immune to
electromagnetic interference. This makes them ideal for use in environments where EMI is a concern, such as
near power lines or in industrial settings.
4. Security: Optical fibers are inherently secure because they do not emit electromagnetic radiation that can be
intercepted or tapped into easily. This makes them more difficult to eavesdrop on compared to traditional
copper cables.
5. Light Speed Transmission: Light signals travel at near the speed of light in a vacuum, which is much faster than
electrical signals in copper cables. This high-speed transmission reduces latency and makes optical fibers
suitable for applications where speed is critical.
6. Thin and Lightweight: Optical fiber cables are thin and lightweight compared to copper cables, which makes
them easier to install and manage. They are also less prone to physical damage.
7. Longevity: Optical fibers have a long lifespan, often exceeding 25 years with minimal maintenance. This makes
them a cost-effective choice over the long term.
8. Secure Transmission: Optical fibers are difficult to tap into without physically accessing the cable. This enhances
data security and privacy.
Microwave communication uses radio waves with short wavelengths for data transmission. It has its own set of
transmission characteristics:
1. Line-of-Sight Communication: Microwave communication is typically line-of-sight, meaning there should be a
clear, unobstructed path between the transmitting and receiving antennas. This limits its use in areas with
geographical obstacles like hills and buildings.
2. High Frequency: Microwave frequencies typically range from 1 GHz to 300 GHz. These high frequencies allow
for high data transmission rates.
3. Low Attenuation: Microwaves experience relatively low attenuation in the Earth's atmosphere, especially at
higher frequencies. This makes them suitable for long-distance communication links.
4. Reliability: Microwave communication is known for its reliability, as it is less susceptible to weather-related
disruptions (e.g., rain fade) compared to satellite communication.
5. Low Latency: Microwave links offer low latency, which is crucial for applications like voice communication and
high-frequency trading.
6. Point-to-Point and Point-to-Multipoint: Microwave can be used in point-to-point links (between two specific
locations) or point-to-multipoint (one sender to multiple receivers) configurations.
7. Vulnerable to Weather: While microwaves are less affected by weather than satellite communication, heavy
rain and fog can still attenuate the signal. Proper network design and redundancy are needed to mitigate these
issues.
8. Security: Microwave communication can be susceptible to eavesdropping if not properly secured. Encryption
and secure equipment are necessary for data security.
In summary, optical fiber cables offer high bandwidth, low attenuation, security, and immunity to EMI, making them
suitable for high-speed and long-distance data transmission. Microwave communication, on the other hand, relies on
radio waves with line-of-sight requirements, high frequencies, and low latency, making it useful for various applications,
especially in situations where laying physical cables is impractical or expensive. Each technology has its own advantages
and limitations, and the choice depends on specific requirements and constraints.
(b) If a signal with 8 states is sent over 4KHz fibre cable channel, what is maximum data rate?
> The maximum data rate can be calculated using the Nyquist theorem formula:
Maximum Data Rate (R) = 2 × Bandwidth × log2(Number of Signal States)
Given: Bandwidth (B) = 4 kHz Number of Signal States = 8
Plugging in the values: R = 2 × 4 kHz × log2(8) R = 2 × 4 kHz × 3 (since log2(8) = 3) R = 24 kbps
So, the maximum data rate for a signal with 8 states sent over a 4 kHz fiber cable channel is 24 kbps.
(d) What do you mean by simplex, duplex and half duplex mode of data transfer? Explain with examples.
> Simplex Mode: Simplex mode is a unidirectional mode of data transfer where data flows in only one direction, from a
sender to a receiver. In this mode, communication is one-way, and the receiver cannot send data back to the sender. It's
similar to a "one-way street" for data transmission.
Example of Simplex Mode: Television Broadcast: When you watch television, the data (TV signals) is transmitted from
the broadcasting station to your TV set. You can receive and display the information, but your TV cannot send any data
back to the station.
Duplex Mode: Duplex mode allows for bidirectional data transfer, meaning data can flow in both directions
simultaneously. It enables full communication between two devices, allowing them to send and receive data
independently at the same time.
Example of Duplex Mode: Phone Conversation: When you have a phone conversation, both you and the person you're
talking to can speak and listen at the same time. It's a duplex communication mode because data (your voices) flows in
both directions simultaneously.
Half-Duplex Mode: Half-duplex mode also supports bidirectional data transfer, but unlike full-duplex, it allows data to
flow in both directions, but not simultaneously. In half-duplex mode, devices can either send or receive data at any
given moment, but not both at the same time.
Example of Half-Duplex Mode: Walkie-Talkies: When using walkie-talkies, you need to press a button to transmit and
release it to receive. While you're speaking, you can't listen to the other person, and vice versa. This is an example of
half-duplex communication, as both parties can send and receive, but not at the same time.
In summary, simplex mode is unidirectional (one-way) data transfer, duplex mode is bidirectional with simultaneous
transmission in both directions, and half-duplex mode is bidirectional but allows data flow in only one direction at any
given moment. The choice of mode depends on the specific requirements of the communication system and the devices
involved.
The frame format of 802.3 LAN (Ethernet) typically consists of the following components:
Preamble: A 7-byte pattern (10101010) followed by a one-byte start frame delimiter (10101011) to signal the
start of the frame.
Destination Address: A 6-byte field specifying the MAC address of the intended recipient.
Source Address: A 6-byte field indicating the MAC address of the sender.
Type or Length: A 2-byte field that either specifies the type of data (e.g., IP, ARP) or the length of the frame.
Data: Variable-length field containing the actual data to be transmitted.
Frame Check Sequence (FCS): A 4-byte CRC (Cyclic Redundancy Check) used for error detection.
To calculate the length of cable equivalent to a 1-bit delay in a ring interface, you can use the formula:
So, a 1-bit delay in a ring interface with a transmission rate of 10 Mbps and a propagation speed of 100m/µs is
equivalent to 0.01 meters (or 1 centimeter) of cable length.
High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) is a widely used data link layer (Layer 2) protocol that provides reliable and
efficient communication over various network types. It serves as the basis for several other protocols, including SDLC
(Synchronous Data Link Control) and PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol). Here are the key aspects of HDLC:
(b) Write different advantages and disadvantages of packet switching technique over circuit switching
technique.
Efficiency (3 marks): Packet switching is highly efficient as network resources are shared dynamically. It can
transmit multiple data streams simultaneously over the same network, optimizing bandwidth usage.
Scalability (3 marks): Packet switching networks are inherently scalable. New connections can be established
without dedicated resources, making it suitable for growing traffic demands.
Resilience (3 marks): Packet switching networks are more resilient to failures. If one path or link fails, packets
can be rerouted through alternate paths, ensuring continued communication.
Cost-Effective (3 marks): Packet switching is cost-effective because it maximizes the use of network resources
and allows for efficient utilization of infrastructure.
Disadvantages of Packet Switching:
Variable Latency (3 marks): Packet switching introduces variable latency as packets can take different paths
through the network. This can impact real-time applications like voice and video.
Potential for Packet Loss (3 marks): Due to the dynamic nature of packet switching, there is a risk of packet
loss, which can affect data integrity. Protocols like TCP mitigate this issue but introduce additional overhead.
Complex Routing (3 marks): Managing packet-switched networks, especially at a large scale, can be complex
due to the need for efficient routing algorithms and congestion management.
Overhead (3 marks): Packet switching adds overhead to each packet, including header information and error-
checking, which can reduce the effective bandwidth utilization.
Aspect HDLC (High-Level Data Link Control) BSC (Binary Synchronous Communication)
Layer of Operation Data Link Layer (Layer 2) Data Link Layer (Layer 2)
Frame Types Supports multiple frame types Typically uses one frame type
Error Detection Includes Frame Check Sequence (FCS) Uses checksum for error detection
Addressing Supports various addressing schemes Typically uses simple address format
Operation Modes NRM, ABM, ARM (various modes) Typically operates in one mode
Efficiency Efficient for various network types Suitable for specific applications
Aspect HDLC (High-Level Data Link Control) BSC (Binary Synchronous Communication)
Usage Used in diverse network environments Historically used for mainframe access
(d) What will be the output after bit stuffing in following data?
1011111110
>Bit Stuffing in "1011111110":
Bit stuffing is a technique used to ensure that a long sequence of 1s does not cause synchronization problems in data
transmission. According to the HDLC bit stuffing rule, a "0" is inserted after every sequence of five consecutive "1s."
"101111011110"
6. (a) What do you mean by "error detection"? Give an example. (2+2+6+3+3= 16)
>(a) Error Detection:
Error detection is a process in data communication where methods or techniques are employed to determine whether
errors have occurred during the transmission or storage of data. It helps identify if any bits of data have been altered,
lost, or corrupted during the transfer. Error detection does not correct errors but serves to notify the sender or receiver
of their presence so that appropriate actions can be taken.
Example: Parity Bit is a simple error detection method. In even parity, an additional bit (parity bit) is added to a group of
data bits such that the total number of 1s (including the parity bit) is always even. If an odd number of bits are altered
during transmission, the parity check will fail, indicating an error.
Error correction is a process in data communication where methods or techniques are used to not only detect errors
but also to correct them automatically. It involves adding redundant information to the data before transmission and
using this information at the receiver to identify and correct errors. Error correction techniques are more complex than
error detection and are especially valuable in applications where data accuracy is critical.
Example: Hamming Code is an error correction method. It adds redundant bits to the data, allowing the receiver to
detect and correct single-bit errors and detect double-bit errors. Hamming codes are widely used in computer memory
systems.
The Cyclic Redundancy Check (CRC) is an error-detection algorithm that uses polynomial division to check for errors in
data. Here's a simplified overview of the CRC checksum algorithm:
1. Choose a fixed-length binary divisor (often called the polynomial) of "n" bits. The divisor is typically represented
in binary form.
2. Append "n-1" zeroes to the end of the data to be sent.
3. Perform binary polynomial division on the extended data using the divisor as the divisor.
4. The remainder obtained from the division (a binary number of "n-1" bits) is the CRC checksum.
5. Send both the original data and the CRC checksum to the receiver.
6. At the receiver's end, the received data and the received CRC checksum are subjected to the same polynomial
division.
7. If the remainder is zero, no errors are detected. If the remainder is nonzero, errors are detected, and the data is
considered corrupted.
(d) Find the remainder, when you divide 101111 by 101 in modulo 2 arithmetic.
>
(e) What is the difference between synchronous and asynchronous transmission.
Synchronous Transmission:
In synchronous transmission, data is sent in a continuous stream, and both sender and receiver must be
synchronized with a common clock signal.
Timing is critical, and data is sent in fixed, predefined chunks or frames.
Start and stop bits are not used.
Typically used in high-speed, reliable communication systems.
Examples include Ethernet, SONET, and synchronous serial communication.
Asynchronous Transmission:
In asynchronous transmission, data is sent one character at a time without the need for a shared clock signal.
Each character is sent with start and stop bits to frame it, allowing for variable-length data frames.
Timing does not need to be as precise as in synchronous transmission.
Well-suited for lower-speed communication and where flexibility in data framing is required.
Examples include RS-232 serial communication and asynchronous transfer mode (ATM).
A Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) is a type of network that bridges the gap between Local Area Networks (LANs)
and Wide Area Networks (WANs) in terms of geographical coverage. Here are some key characteristics and points about
MANs:
1. Geographic Coverage:
A MAN typically covers a metropolitan or city-sized area, which can range from a few kilometers to tens of
kilometers in size.
It is larger in scope than a LAN but smaller than a WAN.
The primary purpose of a MAN is to interconnect multiple LANs and other network resources within a specific
metropolitan region.
MANs are often used by organizations, educational institutions, and government entities that have multiple
branches or offices within the same city.
3. Technologies:
Various communication technologies can be used to establish MANs, including fiber optics, Ethernet, SONET
(Synchronous Optical Networking), and wireless connections.
These technologies allow for high-speed data transfer and internet connectivity within the metropolitan area.
4. Key Applications:
Interconnecting Branch Offices: MANs are frequently used to connect branch offices or campuses of an
organization, allowing them to share resources and data efficiently.
City-Wide Connectivity: MANs support city-wide Wi-Fi networks, providing internet access to residents and
businesses.
Educational and Government Institutions: Universities and government agencies use MANs to link multiple
campuses and offices for data sharing and communication.
5. Scalability:
MANs are designed to be scalable, allowing for the addition of new network nodes, offices, or users as the
organization or network's needs grow.
MANs provide high data transfer speeds, making them suitable for applications requiring the rapid exchange of
data and information.
7. Examples:
An example of a MAN is a city-wide network connecting various government offices, schools, and libraries
within a metropolitan area.
Another example is a business organization with multiple branch offices across a city, all connected through a
MAN to share data, applications, and internet access.
In summary, a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) serves as the networking infrastructure that links various LANs and
network resources across a city or metropolitan region. It plays a crucial role in facilitating communication, data
exchange, and resource sharing among different entities within the same geographic area.
Binary Synchronous Communication (BSC) is a character-oriented data link layer protocol that was developed by IBM. It
played a significant role in early computer and mainframe systems for data communication and remote terminal access.
Below are important points to understand about the BSC protocol:
1. Character-Oriented:
BSC operates at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and is character-oriented. This means that it
processes data in units of characters or bytes rather than individual bits.
2. Frame Structure:
BSC frames data using a start and stop character, framing each character in a data stream. This framing allows
for the identification and separation of individual characters within the data.
3. Flow Control and Synchronization:
BSC uses control characters to manage data flow and maintain synchronization between the sender and
receiver. Control characters help in starting and stopping data transmission and provide mechanisms for flow
control.
4. Error Detection:
To ensure data integrity during transmission, BSC employs a checksum mechanism. A checksum is calculated
and transmitted along with the data. The receiver performs a similar calculation and compares the received
checksum to the calculated one to detect errors.
5. Full-Duplex Operation:
BSC operates in full-duplex mode, allowing for simultaneous data transmission and reception. This means that
both the sender and receiver can transmit and receive data independently.
6. Historical Significance:
BSC has historical significance in the development of data communication protocols. It was widely used in the
early days of computing and played a crucial role in enabling remote access to mainframe computers.
While BSC was instrumental in its time, it has largely been replaced by more advanced and efficient data link
layer protocols like High-Level Data Link Control (HDLC) and Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP).
8. Use Cases:
BSC was used in a variety of applications, including mainframe computer connections, remote terminal access,
and early networked systems.
In summary, Binary Synchronous Communication (BSC) was a character-oriented data link layer protocol developed by
IBM for early data communication. It used framing, flow control, error detection, and full-duplex operation to enable
reliable communication in the early days of computing. While it has been largely replaced by modern protocols, it holds
historical significance in the evolution of data communication.
Modulation Technique: PSK, which stands for Phase Shift Keying, is a digital modulation technique used in
communication systems to transmit digital data by varying the phase of the carrier signal.
Basic Idea: In PSK modulation, the phase of the carrier wave is shifted to represent different symbols or bits.
Each phase shift corresponds to a specific symbol.
Variants: There are different variations of PSK, with Binary PSK (BPSK) being the simplest. In BPSK, there are two
possible phase shifts: 0 degrees and 180 degrees, which correspond to binary 0 and binary 1, respectively.
Applications: PSK modulation is widely used in various communication systems, including satellite
communication, wireless networks (Wi-Fi), and digital television broadcasting. It is known for its efficiency in
terms of spectral bandwidth usage.
Advantages: PSK is efficient and robust in noisy environments. It allows for higher data rates compared to
amplitude modulation techniques.
Disadvantages: It's sensitive to phase noise and interference. In some variants, like BPSK, it doesn't provide high
data rates as QPSK or higher-order PSK.
Modulation Technique: QPSK, which stands for Quadrature Phase Shift Keying, is an extension of PSK
modulation and is used for transmitting digital data.
Basic Idea: In QPSK modulation, there are four possible phase shifts: 0 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees, and
270 degrees. These phase shifts are used to represent two bits of information per symbol.
Symbol Encoding: Each phase shift corresponds to a unique combination of two bits. For example, 00 might
correspond to 0 degrees, 01 to 90 degrees, 10 to 180 degrees, and 11 to 270 degrees.
Applications: QPSK is commonly used in communication systems where maximizing data rates in limited
bandwidth is essential. It's employed in satellite communication, digital modems, and some wireless standards
like GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications).
Advantages: QPSK offers higher data rates compared to BPSK while maintaining spectral efficiency. It provides a
good balance between data rate and robustness in noisy channels.
Disadvantages: QPSK is still sensitive to phase noise and interference, and it may not be as efficient as higher-
order PSK schemes in terms of spectral usage.
In summary, PSK and QPSK are modulation techniques used in digital communication systems to encode and transmit
digital data by varying the phase of the carrier signal. While PSK is efficient and straightforward, QPSK extends this
concept to represent two bits per symbol, making it suitable for applications where maximizing data rates in limited
bandwidth is important. Both PSK and QPSK have found widespread use in various communication technologies.
(d) WAN
>Wide Area Network (WAN):
A Wide Area Network (WAN) is a type of computer network that spans a large geographic area, often encompassing
multiple cities, regions, countries, or even continents. It serves as the vital infrastructure for connecting various Local
Area Networks (LANs), Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs), and other networked devices across long distances. Here
are key points to understand about WANs:
1. Geographic Coverage:
WANs cover extensive geographical areas, making them suitable for connecting LANs and MANs separated by
significant distances.
WANs can span from a few kilometers to thousands of kilometers, depending on the specific network's
requirements.
2. Connectivity:
The primary purpose of WANs is to provide connectivity between geographically dispersed locations. This
includes connecting branch offices, data centers, remote facilities, and even individual users.
3. Technologies:
WANs utilize various technologies and communication mediums for data transmission over long distances.
These technologies include:
Leased Lines: Dedicated point-to-point connections, often provided by telecommunications companies.
Fiber Optics: High-speed optical fiber cables used for transmitting data over long distances with minimal
loss.
Satellite Links: Communication via satellites orbiting the Earth, often used for remote and global
connectivity.
Microwave Links: High-frequency radio waves for point-to-point communication.
Internet Backbone: WANs often rely on the global internet infrastructure for worldwide connectivity.
4. Network Topology:
WANs can have various topologies, including point-to-point, star, mesh, and hybrid configurations, depending
on the specific requirements of the network.
WANs operate using a variety of network protocols and standards, including TCP/IP, MPLS (Multiprotocol Label
Switching), and Frame Relay, to facilitate data communication over long distances.
6. Internet as a WAN:
The global internet itself can be considered the largest WAN. It connects millions of networks and users
worldwide, providing a vast infrastructure for data exchange and communication.
7. Network Management:
Managing and maintaining WANs can be complex, requiring careful planning, monitoring, and security measures
to ensure reliable and secure communication over long distances.
8. Use Cases:
WANs are essential for businesses and organizations with multiple branch offices or facilities. They allow for the
sharing of resources, data, applications, and services among geographically dispersed locations.
WANs also enable remote access for telecommuting, cloud computing, and global collaboration.
WANs can involve significant costs, both in terms of infrastructure and ongoing operation. They require
specialized hardware, configuration, and maintenance.
Complex routing and redundancy mechanisms are often employed to ensure high availability and fault
tolerance.
In conclusion, a Wide Area Network (WAN) is a critical component of modern communication and data exchange,
connecting geographically dispersed entities and enabling global connectivity. It forms the backbone for organizations
with distributed operations and plays a pivotal role in today's interconnected world.