Practice A2.2 Network architecture with authentic IB Computer Science (First Exam 2027) exam questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank mirrors Paper 1, 2, 3 structure, covering key topics like programming concepts, algorithms, and data structures. Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build exam confidence with questions in the style of IB examiners.
A telecommunications company implements Software-Defined Networking (SDN) to modernize their network infrastructure.
Compare traditional networking architecture with SDN architecture, discussing the differences in control plane management, data plane functionality, configuration methods, flexibility, and vendor dependencies.
Analyse the security implications of centralizing network control in an SDN controller, considering both benefits and risks.
A multinational bank implements a hybrid cloud architecture connecting on-premises data centres with public cloud services.
Explain the networking considerations for deploying core banking systems on-premises while hosting web applications and data analytics in public cloud environments. Discuss connectivity methods, security levels, and latency requirements.
Analyse the challenges of maintaining data consistency and security across hybrid cloud environments.
A video streaming service implements a distributed architecture to handle millions of concurrent users.
Complete the load balancing strategy comparison table:
| Load Balancing Method | Decision Criteria | Response Time | Scalability | Complexity | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round Robin | Predictable | Low | — | — | — |
| Least Connections | Active connections | High | Medium | — | — |
| Weighted Round Robin | Different server capacities | — | — | — | — |
| Geographic | — | Low | — | High | — |
Explain how Content Delivery Networks (CDNs) work with load balancers to optimize video streaming performance globally
A global content delivery network (CDN) optimizes web content distribution across multiple geographic regions.
Design a CDN architecture analysis table:
| CDN Component | Location | Primary Function | Caching Strategy | Performance Benefit | Failure Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Origin Server | — | Master content storage | — | High | — |
| Edge Cache | ISP locations | — | LRU, TTL-based | — | Low |
| Regional Cache | — | Intermediate storage | — | Reduced origin load | — |
| DNS Resolver | Global | — | Geographic routing | — | Medium |
Explain how anycast routing improves CDN performance and discuss one potential limitation.
A cloud service provider designs a scalable network architecture to support microservices applications.
Analyse how each layer of the OSI model is utilized in microservices communication, focusing on the Application, Presentation, Session, Transport, and Network layers. Include specific protocols and scaling considerations for each layer.
Evaluate how containerization platforms like Kubernetes change traditional network architecture requirements compared to monolithic applications.