Computer Networks: Complete Guide for Aptitude Preparation (2025)

Computer Networks form the backbone of modern communication and data exchange. For exams like SSC, Banking, UPSC, CAT, GRE, and technical assessments, computer awareness questions on networking are very common.

This guide covers concepts, types, examples, solved MCQs, and practice questions to help you master computer networks for competitive exams in 2025.

What is a Computer Network?

A Computer Network is a system of interconnected devices (computers, printers, servers, etc.) that communicate and share resources with each other.

Types of Computer Networks

1. LAN (Local Area Network):

   • Covers a small area (office, school, building).

   • Example: Wi-Fi network at home.

2. WAN (Wide Area Network):

   • Covers a large geographical area.

   • Example: The Internet.

3. MAN (Metropolitan Area Network):

   • Covers a city or town.

4. PAN (Personal Area Network):

   • Very small network, usually for personal devices (Bluetooth, Hotspot).

Network Topologies

1. Star Topology – All devices connect to a central hub/switch.
2. Bus Topology – All devices share a single communication line.
3. Ring Topology – Devices are connected in a circular path.
4. Mesh Topology – Every device connects to every other device.

Important Networking Devices

• Router – Connects different networks.
• Switch – Connects multiple devices within a network.
• Hub – Basic device to connect systems (less intelligent than a switch).
• Modem – Converts digital signals to analog and vice versa.

Solved Examples

Example 1:
Which type of network is the Internet?

• (a) LAN
• (b) MAN
• (c) WAN
• (d) PAN

Answer: (c) WAN

Example 2:
Which device is used to connect two different networks?

• (a) Hub
• (b) Switch
• (c) Router
• (d) Modem

Answer: (c) Router

Practice Questions

1. Which topology connects all computers to a central hub?
   (a) Star
   (b) Ring
   (c) Mesh
   (d) Bus

2. Bluetooth is an example of:
   (a) LAN
   (b) PAN
   (c) WAN
   (d) MAN

3. Which of the following is NOT a networking device?
   (a) Router
   (b) Switch
   (c) Monitor
   (d) Hub

Tips to Master Networking for Exams

• Memorize the differences between LAN, MAN, WAN, PAN.
• Revise common networking devices and their functions.
• Solve previous years’ networking MCQs.
• Focus on basic OSI model and TCP/IP basics if preparing for technical exams.

FAQs:

Q1. What is the difference between LAN and WAN?
LAN covers a small area like an office; WAN covers large geographical areas like the Internet.

Q2. What is the most commonly used network topology today?
Star topology (used in Wi-Fi and Ethernet LANs).

Q3. Is the Internet a WAN or MAN?
The Internet is a WAN (Wide Area Network).