A-LevelComputer ScienceCommunication and internet technologies9618/32 · Oct/Nov 2022 · Q36 Marks

Explain why a protocol is used in communication between computers.

(a)Explain why a protocol is used in communication between computers.[2]
(b)The TCP/IP protocol implementation can be viewed as a stack. Complete the diagram for the TCP/IP protocol stack. [Figure X.X][2]
(c)Describe the purpose of the IMAP protocol.[2]

This question uses a diagram from the original paper, which isn't shown here. Open the full paper from the past papers archive to see it.

Mark scheme

Marking points from the official mark scheme (Oct/Nov 2022). The mark or mark type is shown in brackets.

[1] (a) One mark per point (Max 2) • Protocols set a standard for communication
[1] (a) • Protocols enable communication/compatibility between devices from different manufacturers/platforms
[1] (a) • If two devices were sending messages to each other but using different protocols, they would not be able to communicate properly
[1] (b) One mark for each correct answer Application (Layer) Transport Internet/Network (Layer) Link
[1] (c) One mark per point (Max 2) • used by email clients to retrieve email messages // a pull protocol
[1] (c) • from a mail server (over a TCP/IP connection)
[1] (c) • keeps the server and client in sync (by not deleting the original email). // allows a copy of the email to be downloaded from the mail server.

On Oracle Prep you can write or photograph your own answer and have it marked by AI against this mark scheme, with feedback on what you missed.