Important & Past-Year Questions for Computer Networks (BSc CSIT – 4th Semester, TU)

Important & Past-Year Questions for Computer Networks (BSc CSIT – 4th Semester, TU)

Computer Networks (CN) is one of the most important and scoring theory subjects in BSc CSIT 4th Semester under Tribhuvan University (TU). At the same time, it is also considered one of the toughest subjects by students due to its combination of theoretical concepts, numerical problems, protocol analysis, and diagram-based questions.

Topics like OSI Model, TCP/IP, subnetting, routing algorithms, congestion control, DNS, ARP, and SDN are repeatedly asked in TU examinations. Many students lose marks not because the syllabus is difficult, but because they fail to identify high-priority exam topics and frequently repeated questions.

This article is designed to help you prepare smartly for TU exams. It includes:

• High-priority syllabus topics
• Most asked long questions (10 & 20 marks)
• Frequently repeated short questions (5 marks)
• Exam-writing strategy for maximum marks

Whether you are preparing for regular exams, back exams, or quick revision before finals, this guide will save your time and boost your confidence.

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📌 Most Important Topics for Computer Networks (High Priority)

Based on analysis of TU past-year questions, the following topics are considered high-weightage and exam-critical. You should prepare these topics thoroughly with concepts, diagrams, and numerical practice.

• OSI Reference Model
  7 layers and their functions, data encapsulation, advantages of layered architecture, comparison between OSI and TCP/IP models.
• TCP Protocol
  TCP header format, 3-way handshake, reliable data transfer, flow control, congestion control mechanisms.
• IP Addressing
  IPv4 and IPv6 structure, classful vs classless addressing, CIDR notation, subnetting steps and numerical examples.
• Routing Algorithms
  Distance Vector vs Link State routing, Bellman-Ford overview, Dijkstra’s algorithm with steps.
• Congestion Control Techniques
  Slow Start, AIMD, Fast Retransmit, Fast Recovery, congestion window concept.
• Application Layer Protocols
  DNS architecture and query process, DHCP working, ARP request/reply, FTP, HTTP, SMTP.
• Data Link Layer
  Error detection and correction techniques, ARQ protocols, HDLC, PPP.
• Network Management & Modern Trends
  SNMP, Quality of Service (QoS), Software Defined Networking (SDN) basics.

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📝 Past-Year Long Questions (10 / 20 Marks)

The following questions have been repeatedly asked in TU exams. Preparing these questions properly gives you a very high chance of scoring well.

• Explain the OSI reference model. Compare OSI model with TCP/IP model.
• Explain TCP protocol with a neat diagram. Describe the TCP header fields and 3-way handshake process.
• Explain IPv4 addressing scheme. Differentiate between classful and classless addressing with subnetting example.
• Compare Distance Vector routing and Link State routing. Explain Dijkstra’s routing algorithm with steps.
• Explain congestion control techniques in TCP with suitable graphs.
• Explain DNS architecture. Describe DNS query resolution process in detail.
• What is flow control? Explain Stop-and-Wait ARQ with diagram.
• Explain IP fragmentation and reassembly process.
• Explain different network topologies with advantages and disadvantages.
• Explain the architecture and working principle of Software Defined Networking (SDN).

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✍️ Frequently Asked Short Questions (5 Marks)

These questions are commonly asked as short notes or very short answers. Preparing these properly helps secure easy marks.

• Define protocol. Why are network standards required?
• Guided vs Unguided transmission media
• Unicast, Multicast, and Broadcast communication
• Difference between Port and Socket
• Leaky Bucket Algorithm
• Explain ARP Request and ARP Reply
• IPv4 vs IPv6 differences
• Functions of Presentation Layer
• What is Backbone Network?
• Infrared Communication

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🎯 Exam Writing Tips & Strategy for TU CN Exam

Scoring high in Computer Networks does not depend only on knowledge, but also on how you present your answers in the exam.

• Diagrams are extremely important – OSI layers, TCP header, subnetting tables, routing graphs.
• Always show steps clearly in subnetting and routing problems. Step marking is strictly followed by TU.
• Use bullet points and headings instead of long paragraphs.
• Write definitions clearly before explanations.
• Time management: approximately 3 minutes per mark. Do not spend too much time on a single question.

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