Basics of Computer Networks Interview Questions Explained

A collection of computers linked together to exchange information and resources is called a computer network. For instance, the Wi-Fi on your laptop and phone is the same.

Local Area Network is referred to as LAN. It links computers in a small space, such as an office, school, or household.

A Wide Area Network is referred to as a WAN. It links computers over long distances, such as between nations or cities.

The Internet is a huge global network that links millions of computers together. It lets us do many things like send emails, watch videos, and visit websites from anywhere in the world.

Every device on a network is assigned a unique number known as its IP address. By displaying their position, it facilitates computer communication.

A router connects your devices to the internet. It sends data to the right device, like your phone or TV.

A switch connects many computers in a LAN. It helps them share files and printers quickly.

A modem brings the internet into your home. It connects to your internet provider and passes data to your router.

Bandwidth is the amount of data your network can move in a second. More bandwidth means faster internet.

The OSI model explains how data moves through a network in 7 simple steps, like layers in a cake.

A MAC address is a unique ID given to each device’s network card. It helps networks know which device is which.

TCP is slower but makes sure data reaches safely. UDP is faster but doesn’t check if data is received.

A protocol is a set of rules that devices follow to talk to each other, like how we use grammar in a language.

Two distinct networks are connected by a gateway. It functions as a link between the internet and your home network.

Network latency means the delay before data starts moving. High latency makes things feel slow online.

A client asks for data (like your phone), and a server gives it (like a website). They work together in a network.

A DNS server converts domain names, such as google.com, into computer-understandable numbers, or IP addresses.

A hub connects devices in a network but sends data to all, not just one. It’s slower than a switch.

Network topology is the shape or layout of a network, like a star, ring, or bus shape.

A packet is a small piece of data sent over a network. Large files are broken into packets to travel faster.

A procedure called NAT converts private IP addresses to public ones. It enables numerous devices to concurrently share a single internet connection.

A firewall is like a security guard. It blocks harmful data and protects your network from attacks.

A VPN hides your real IP address and makes your internet connection private. It’s useful for working safely online.

Port forwarding sends data to the right device in a network. It helps when you use cameras or games that need internet access.

A proxy server acts as a middleman between you and the Internet. It helps with security, speed, and hiding your identity.

DHCP gives IP addresses to devices on a network automatically. It saves time and avoids manual setup.

A load balancer shares traffic across servers. It keeps websites running smoothly even when many users visit at once.

A VLAN separates a large network into smaller parts. It makes the network safer and more organized.

Network congestion happens when too much data tries to travel at once. It can slow things down or cause delays.

A packet sniffer checks data moving in a network. It’s used for monitoring and fixing network problems.