Computer Networks and Government Regulations: Revision Questions

Computer Science Revision Question Paper: Networks and Governmental Perspectives

As you prepare for your Computer Science exam, it's essential to focus on key areas like computer networks and the government's role in this domain. In this article, we'll explore some of the questions you might encounter in a full-portion computer network examination, along with perspectives from government regulation and policy.

Computer Networks

1. What is a computer network, and what are its components? A network consists of multiple devices connected via communication channels, allowing them to exchange data and information. Its components include routers, switches, gateways, and various types of cables.

2. Describe the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model and its seven layers. The OSI model is a conceptual framework that outlines the functionalities of a network and breaks down its components into seven layers: Physical, Data Link, Network, Transport, Session, Presentation, and Application.

3. Discuss the differences between Client-Server and Peer-to-Peer networking. In Client-Server networking, a client requests data from a server, which provides it. Peer-to-Peer networking, on the other hand, allows devices to communicate directly without the need for a central server.

4. Compare the pros and cons of TCP and UDP protocols. TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is reliable, ordered, and connection-oriented, but slower. UDP (User Datagram Protocol) is faster and more scalable, but less reliable.

5. Explain the role of Network Address Translation (NAT) and its benefits. NAT translates private IP addresses to public IP addresses, reducing the need for publicly routable IP addresses and conserving IPv4 address space.

6. Describe the differences between Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches. Layer 2 switches forward packets based on MAC addresses, while Layer 3 switches (routers) forward packets based on IP addresses.

7. Discuss the importance of network security and common attack types. Network security is essential to protect against unauthorized access, data breaches, and malicious activities such as denial-of-service attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks, and SQL injection attacks.

Government Regulation and Policy

1. Explain the role of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) in regulating telecommunication networks. The FCC regulates interstate and international communication by cable, satellite, radio, and wire, ensuring that the telecommunications industry operates in the public interest.

2. Describe the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and its impact on data privacy. GDPR sets guidelines for the collection, processing, and storage of personal data, protecting EU citizens' rights and ensuring companies, including network-related entities, respect data privacy.

3. Discuss net neutrality and its implications for network regulation. Net neutrality refers to the principle that all data on the internet should be treated equally, without preferential treatment for some types of data or sites. Its regulation has been debated at the national and international levels.

4. Explain the role of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in developing cybersecurity frameworks. NIST develops guidelines, standards, and best practices to secure federal information and systems, including network-related entities.

5. Discuss the differences between the European Union's ePrivacy Directive and the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The ePrivacy Directive focuses on privacy in electronic communication services, including network traffic data and location data, while GDPR relates to the broader protection of personal data.

6. Explain the role of the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) in promoting connectivity and digital inclusion. The ITU focuses on connecting the world, driving digital inclusion, and standardizing global ICT sector policies.

7. Discuss the importance of international cooperation in cybersecurity and network regulation. International cooperation is essential to combat cyber threats and ensure global network security, as cyber attacks often originate and spread across international borders.

By studying these subtopics, you'll be better prepared to tackle computer network-related questions on your examination and better understand the government's role in regulating and shaping the digital landscape.