Computer Networks · TEE · papers

Q3A · Network definition and topologies

Re-exam · 4 February 2026

TEE · Actual TEE paper · all questions · current syllabus 702AI0C023

Actual PYQ · Q3A. Define computer networks. Discuss any two types of network topologies in computer networks with suitable diagrams. [5 marks]

Answer

A computer network is a set of interconnected devices exchanging data through protocols. Topology describes the arrangement of nodes/links. Two examples are star and bus.

Swipe across the diagram to read its labels ↔
Four physical network topologies
Diagram: Four physical network topologies. Labels: Four physical network topologies | Four physical network topologies | Star | Bus | Ring | Full mesh: 4 nodes, 6 links | S | Links show arrangement. Actual access rules are a separate concept.
Use the star and bus panels for the two requested examples.
  1. Star: each host has a link to a central switch. It is easy to expand and isolate a failed host link. Failure of the central device can affect the entire star.
  2. Bus: devices share a common backbone. It can be simple for a small legacy shared segment, but backbone failure affects the segment and simultaneous transmissions can collide.

Source: Re-exam · 4 February 2026, original question paper page 2. Original marks retained; solution independently authored.