BCOS-184 Solved Assignment 2025
Note: Attempt all the questions.
Section – A
Q.1 Explain the evolution of E-Commerce.
Q.2 Discuss the five major steps of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) for designing commerce solutions.
Q.3 What is Cyber Security? State its importance in today's digitally connected world.
Q.4 Explain the 7C's of retail mix.
Q.5 Describe the various steps of an App development process.
Section – B
Q.6 What are the advantages of E-Commerce?
Q.7 Explain the impact of a pandemic on E-commerce businesses.
Q.8 What are e-Commerce revenue models? Explain their various types.
Q.9 What is the difference between NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS?
Q.10 State the differences between HTTP and HTTPS.
Section – C
Q.11 What are the differences between traditional payment and e-payment?
Q.12 Write a short note on impact of emerging technologies on e-commerce.
Q.13 What are the features of a virtual currency?
Q.14 Explain the significance of E-auction.
Answer:
Section – A
Question:-1
Explain the evolution of E-Commerce.
Answer:
1. The Origins of E-Commerce: Early Innovations (1960s–1980s)
The foundations of e-commerce trace back to the 1960s with the development of Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), a system enabling businesses to exchange documents digitally, replacing traditional mail and fax. This innovation streamlined transactions between corporations, setting the stage for digital commerce. In 1969, CompuServe emerged as one of the earliest companies to facilitate electronic transactions, albeit through phone lines rather than the internet.
A pivotal moment arrived in 1979 when British inventor Michael Aldrich demonstrated electronic shopping by connecting a modified television to a transaction-processing computer via telephone lines. This experiment laid the groundwork for online retail. By 1982, the Boston Computer Exchange became the first recognized e-commerce company, operating as an online marketplace for used computers through a dial-up bulletin board system. The 1980s also saw the introduction of secure online transaction processing tools, further enabling digital financial exchanges.
2. The Birth of Modern E-Commerce (1990s–2000s)
The 1990s marked a turning point with the advent of the World Wide Web, which democratized internet access and catalyzed online shopping. In 1994, Netscape Navigator introduced Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption, ensuring secure online transactions. That same year, the first documented online purchase occurred—a Sting CD sold via NetMarket.
Amazon and eBay, launched in 1994 and 1995 respectively, revolutionized e-commerce. Amazon began as an online bookstore before expanding into a global marketplace, while eBay popularized consumer-to-consumer sales through auctions. PayPal’s introduction in 1998 streamlined digital payments, addressing trust barriers in online transactions. By the late 1990s, e-commerce had entered mainstream consciousness, though the dot-com bubble burst in 2000 exposed the risks of unsustainable business models. Despite this, the industry rebounded with innovations like Google AdWords (2000) and Amazon Prime (2005), which redefined customer expectations for speed and convenience.
3. The Rise of Mobile and Social Commerce (2010s–2020s)
The 2010s witnessed the explosive growth of mobile commerce (m-commerce), driven by smartphone proliferation. Platforms like Shopify (2006) and WooCommerce (2011) empowered small businesses to create online stores effortlessly. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Facebook, integrated shopping features, blurring the lines between social engagement and retail.
The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 accelerated e-commerce adoption, as lockdowns forced consumers to rely on online shopping for essentials. Grocery delivery services like Instacart surged, while traditional retailers expanded their digital presence. Innovations such as augmented reality (AR) for virtual try-ons and AI-driven personalization further enhanced the shopping experience.
4. The Future of E-Commerce: Emerging Trends
E-commerce continues to evolve with advancements in artificial intelligence, voice commerce, and blockchain technology. AI-powered chatbots and dynamic pricing algorithms optimize customer interactions, while voice assistants like Alexa enable hands-free shopping. Augmented and virtual reality are reshaping product visualization, allowing customers to "try before they buy" in immersive digital environments. Sustainability and ethical consumerism are also gaining traction, with brands emphasizing eco-friendly packaging and transparent supply chains.
Conclusion
From its humble beginnings in the 1960s to its current status as a trillion-dollar industry, e-commerce has undergone a remarkable transformation. Technological advancements, shifting consumer behaviors, and global events like the COVID-19 pandemic have continually reshaped its trajectory. As innovation persists, the future of e-commerce promises even greater integration of technology, personalization, and convenience, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of modern retail.
Question:-2
Discuss the five major steps of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) for designing commerce solutions.
Answer:
1. Planning and Requirement Analysis
The initial phase of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC) for commerce solutions involves meticulous planning and requirement analysis. This step is foundational, as it defines the project's scope, objectives, and constraints. Stakeholders, including business analysts, project managers, and end-users, collaborate to identify functional and non-functional requirements. For e-commerce systems, key considerations may include user authentication, payment processing, inventory management, and scalability. A well-structured feasibility study ensures that the proposed solution aligns with business goals while staying within budgetary and technical limitations.
2. System Design
Once requirements are clearly outlined, the system design phase translates them into a technical blueprint. This stage involves creating architectural diagrams, data models, and user interface prototypes. For commerce platforms, the design must prioritize seamless navigation, secure transactions, and integration with third-party services like payment gateways or logistics providers. Decisions regarding database structure, APIs, and cloud hosting are finalized here. A robust design minimizes development risks and ensures the system can adapt to future enhancements.
3. Implementation (Coding)
The implementation phase brings the design to life through coding. Developers build the commerce solution using programming languages and frameworks suited to the project's needs, such as JavaScript for front-end interactivity or Python for back-end logic. Modular development practices, such as Agile methodologies, allow for iterative testing and refinement. Key features like shopping carts, product catalogs, and checkout processes are developed during this stage. Code quality, security protocols, and compliance with industry standards (e.g., PCI-DSS for payments) are critical focus areas.
4. Testing and Quality Assurance
Before deployment, rigorous testing ensures the commerce system functions as intended. Quality assurance (QA) teams conduct unit tests, integration tests, and user acceptance tests (UAT) to identify bugs or performance bottlenecks. For e-commerce platforms, stress testing evaluates how the system handles high traffic volumes during peak sales periods. Security testing, including vulnerability scans and penetration testing, safeguards against data breaches. Any issues detected are addressed through debugging and retesting until the system meets predefined quality benchmarks.
5. Deployment and Maintenance
The final phase involves deploying the commerce solution to a live environment. This may begin with a soft launch to a limited user base before a full-scale rollout. Post-deployment, continuous monitoring ensures system stability, and performance metrics are tracked to identify areas for improvement. Maintenance includes regular updates, security patches, and feature enhancements to keep the platform competitive. For long-term success, user feedback is incorporated to refine functionality and improve the customer experience.
Conclusion
The System Development Life Cycle provides a structured framework for designing effective commerce solutions. From planning and design to implementation, testing, and deployment, each phase plays a vital role in delivering a secure, scalable, and user-friendly platform. Adhering to SDLC principles ensures that e-commerce systems meet business objectives while adapting to evolving market demands. By prioritizing thorough analysis, robust design, and iterative improvement, organizations can build commerce solutions that drive growth and customer satisfaction.
Question:-3
What is Cyber Security? State its importance in today's digitally connected world.
Answer:
1. Definition of Cyber Security
Cyber security refers to the practice of protecting digital systems, networks, and data from malicious attacks, unauthorized access, and other cyber threats. It encompasses a wide range of technologies, processes, and policies designed to safeguard computers, servers, mobile devices, and critical infrastructure from exploitation. Cyber security measures aim to ensure confidentiality, integrity, and availability of information, preventing disruptions that could compromise personal, corporate, or national security.
2. Key Components of Cyber Security
Cyber security is a multi-layered discipline that includes several critical components. Network security focuses on preventing unauthorized access to internal networks through firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption. Endpoint security protects individual devices such as laptops and smartphones from malware and ransomware. Application security ensures that software is designed and maintained to resist attacks, while data security involves safeguarding sensitive information through encryption and access controls. Additionally, identity management and incident response strategies play vital roles in mitigating risks and recovering from breaches.
3. Growing Importance in a Digitally Connected World
The increasing reliance on digital technologies has made cyber security indispensable. With the rise of remote work, cloud computing, and the Internet of Things (IoT), attack surfaces have expanded, providing cybercriminals with more opportunities to exploit vulnerabilities. Financial institutions, healthcare providers, and government agencies store vast amounts of sensitive data, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. A single breach can result in financial losses, reputational damage, and legal consequences, underscoring the need for robust security measures.
4. Emerging Cyber Threats
Cyber threats continue to evolve in sophistication and scale. Phishing attacks deceive users into revealing sensitive information, while ransomware locks critical systems until a ransom is paid. Advanced persistent threats (APTs) involve prolonged, targeted attacks aimed at stealing data or disrupting operations. Supply chain attacks exploit vulnerabilities in third-party software to infiltrate larger networks. The rise of artificial intelligence has also introduced new risks, as attackers use machine learning to automate and enhance their tactics. Staying ahead of these threats requires continuous innovation in cyber security strategies.
5. Role of Individuals and Organizations
Cyber security is a shared responsibility between individuals, businesses, and governments. Individuals must adopt best practices such as using strong passwords, enabling multi-factor authentication, and avoiding suspicious links. Organizations should implement comprehensive security frameworks, conduct regular employee training, and perform vulnerability assessments. Governments play a crucial role in establishing regulations, fostering international cooperation, and investing in cyber defense infrastructure. Proactive collaboration across all sectors is essential to creating a resilient digital ecosystem.
Conclusion
Cyber security is a critical pillar of the modern digital landscape, protecting systems and data from ever-evolving threats. As technology advances, the complexity and frequency of cyberattacks will only increase, making robust security measures more vital than ever. By understanding risks, adopting best practices, and fostering collaboration, society can mitigate vulnerabilities and ensure a safer, more secure digital future. The importance of cyber security cannot be overstated—it is not just a technical necessity but a fundamental requirement for trust and stability in the digital age.
Question:-4
Explain the 7C's of retail mix.
Answer:
1. Introduction to the 7C’s of Retail Mix
The 7C’s of retail mix provide a structured framework for retailers to design and execute effective business strategies. This model emphasizes customer-centric approaches, ensuring that every aspect of the retail experience aligns with consumer expectations. By focusing on these seven elements, retailers can enhance satisfaction, foster loyalty, and maintain a competitive edge in a dynamic market.
2. Customer: The Core of Retail Strategy
At the heart of the retail mix is the customer. Understanding their needs, preferences, and behaviors is critical for tailoring products, services, and experiences. Retailers must segment their audience, analyze purchasing patterns, and create value propositions that resonate. A customer-centric approach not only drives sales but also builds long-term relationships, turning shoppers into loyal advocates.
3. Cost: Balancing Value and Profitability
Cost encompasses more than just the price tag; it reflects the perceived value and affordability of products. Retailers must strike a balance between competitive pricing and profitability, considering factors like production expenses, market demand, and competitor pricing. Strategies such as dynamic pricing, discounts, and flexible payment options can influence purchasing decisions while maintaining margins.
4. Convenience: Streamlining the Shopping Experience
Convenience is a key differentiator in modern retail. This includes physical store locations, intuitive layouts, and seamless online platforms. Features like easy navigation, fast checkout processes, and efficient delivery systems enhance accessibility. In an era of omnichannel retailing, integrating online and offline experiences ensures customers can shop anytime, anywhere, with minimal friction.
5. Communication: Engaging and Informing
Effective communication bridges the gap between retailers and customers. It involves clear, persuasive messaging through advertising, social media, and in-store interactions. Two-way communication is equally important—listening to feedback and addressing queries builds trust. Personalized marketing, such as targeted emails or loyalty programs, further strengthens engagement and brand loyalty.
6. Consistency: Delivering Reliable Experiences
Consistency ensures that every touchpoint—product quality, customer service, branding, and messaging—aligns with the retailer’s image. Inconsistencies can confuse customers and erode trust. Standardizing processes across all channels, from physical stores to digital platforms, reinforces reliability and professionalism, fostering confidence in the brand.
7. Clarity: Transparency in Operations
Clarity involves straightforward communication of policies, pricing, and product details. Transparent return policies, accurate descriptions, and honest pricing prevent misunderstandings and enhance customer trust. Retailers who prioritize clarity reduce friction in the purchasing process and minimize disputes, leading to smoother transactions and higher satisfaction.
8. Community: Building Emotional Connections
Community focuses on creating a sense of belonging among customers. Retailers can achieve this through loyalty programs, social media engagement, or supporting local causes. A strong community fosters emotional connections, turning customers into brand advocates. Events, exclusive offers, and user-generated content further deepen these relationships, driving repeat business and word-of-mouth referrals.
Conclusion
The 7C’s of retail mix—Customer, Cost, Convenience, Communication, Consistency, Clarity, and Community—offer a holistic approach to retail management. By integrating these elements, retailers can craft compelling shopping experiences, adapt to evolving consumer demands, and sustain competitive advantage. In an increasingly digital and customer-driven marketplace, mastering the 7C’s is not just strategic but essential for long-term success.
Question:-5
Describe the various steps of an App development process.
Answer:
1. Ideation and Market Research
The app development process begins with ideation, where the core concept and purpose of the application are defined. This stage involves identifying the target audience, understanding their pain points, and determining how the app will address those needs. Market research is crucial to analyze competitors, assess industry trends, and validate the app’s unique value proposition. A well-defined concept at this stage sets the foundation for all subsequent steps, ensuring alignment with business goals and user expectations.
2. Planning and Requirement Analysis
Once the idea is solidified, the next step is detailed planning. This involves outlining functional and non-functional requirements, such as features, security protocols, and performance benchmarks. A product roadmap is created to prioritize tasks, allocate resources, and establish timelines. Technical feasibility is assessed to determine the appropriate technology stack, including programming languages, frameworks, and third-party integrations. Clear documentation at this stage minimizes ambiguities and ensures smooth progression into design and development.
3. UI/UX Design
Design is a critical phase that shapes the user experience. Wireframes and prototypes are developed to visualize the app’s layout, navigation flow, and interactive elements. UI/UX designers focus on creating intuitive interfaces with consistent branding, color schemes, and typography. Prototyping allows stakeholders to test usability and gather feedback before finalizing the design. A well-executed design phase enhances user engagement and reduces the likelihood of costly revisions during development.
4. Development
The development phase involves translating design blueprints into functional code. It is typically divided into frontend and backend development. Frontend development focuses on the user interface, ensuring responsiveness across devices and platforms. Backend development handles server-side logic, databases, APIs, and security protocols. Developers may choose native, hybrid, or cross-platform approaches based on project requirements. Agile methodologies are often employed to facilitate iterative progress, allowing for continuous testing and refinement.
5. Testing and Quality Assurance
Rigorous testing ensures the app is free of bugs, performs optimally, and delivers a seamless user experience. Various testing methods are employed, including functional testing, performance testing, security testing, and usability testing. Compatibility testing verifies the app works across different devices, screen sizes, and operating systems. Any issues identified are addressed before deployment to prevent post-launch complications.
6. Deployment
Once testing is complete, the app is prepared for release. Deployment involves submitting the app to platforms like the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, adhering to their guidelines and policies. Metadata, such as descriptions, screenshots, and keywords, is optimized for discoverability. A phased rollout strategy may be adopted to monitor performance and gather initial user feedback before a full-scale launch.
7. Maintenance and Updates
Post-launch, the app enters the maintenance phase, where developers monitor performance, fix bugs, and release updates. Regular enhancements are made to introduce new features, improve security, and ensure compatibility with the latest OS versions. User feedback plays a pivotal role in guiding these updates, ensuring the app remains relevant and competitive in a dynamic market.
Conclusion
The app development process is a structured journey from concept to deployment and beyond. Each phase—ideation, planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and maintenance—plays a vital role in creating a successful application. By adhering to best practices and maintaining a user-centric approach, developers can deliver high-quality apps that meet business objectives and exceed user expectations. Continuous iteration and improvement are key to sustaining long-term success in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Section – B
Question:-6
What are the advantages of E-Commerce?
Answer:
The Advantages of E-Commerce
E-commerce has revolutionized the way businesses operate and consumers shop, offering numerous benefits for both buyers and sellers. One of its primary advantages is convenience. Customers can browse and purchase products anytime, anywhere, eliminating the need to visit physical stores. This 24/7 accessibility is particularly valuable for people with busy schedules or limited mobility.
For businesses, e-commerce provides a global reach. Unlike traditional brick-and-mortar stores limited by geography, online platforms allow sellers to connect with customers worldwide. This expands market opportunities and increases revenue potential. Additionally, e-commerce reduces operational costs by eliminating expenses associated with physical storefronts, such as rent, utilities, and in-store staff.
E-commerce also enables personalized shopping experiences. Through data analytics and AI, businesses can recommend products based on customer preferences and browsing history, enhancing engagement and satisfaction. Automated processes, such as inventory management and order fulfillment, further improve efficiency and reduce human error.
Another significant advantage is price competitiveness. Online retailers often offer lower prices due to reduced overhead costs, and customers can easily compare prices across multiple platforms to find the best deals. Discounts, loyalty programs, and flash sales further incentivize purchases.
For consumers, e-commerce provides a wider product selection than physical stores. Niche products that may not be available locally can be sourced from global sellers, increasing choice and accessibility. Customer reviews and ratings also help buyers make informed decisions, fostering trust in online transactions.
Lastly, e-commerce supports sustainability by reducing the need for physical travel and minimizing paper-based processes through digital receipts and invoices. Many e-commerce businesses also adopt eco-friendly packaging and delivery methods.
In conclusion, e-commerce offers unparalleled convenience, cost savings, and global opportunities for businesses while providing consumers with greater choice, competitive pricing, and personalized experiences. Its continued growth underscores its transformative impact on modern commerce.
Question:-7
Explain the impact of a pandemic on E-commerce businesses.
Answer:
The Impact of a Pandemic on E-Commerce Businesses
The outbreak of a global pandemic significantly transforms consumer behavior and business operations, with e-commerce emerging as both a beneficiary and a critical solution during such crises. As physical stores face restrictions, lockdowns, and health concerns, online shopping experiences unprecedented growth. However, this shift also presents unique challenges for digital businesses.
One of the most notable impacts is the surge in demand for e-commerce platforms. Consumers increasingly rely on online shopping for essentials like groceries, medicines, and household items, as well as non-essentials such as electronics and apparel. This rapid adoption accelerates digital transformation, pushing even traditional retailers to establish or enhance their online presence. Businesses that previously hesitated to embrace e-commerce are forced to adapt or risk obsolescence.
However, this growth comes with operational challenges. Supply chain disruptions caused by factory closures, transportation delays, and labor shortages affect inventory management and delivery timelines. E-commerce businesses must navigate these hurdles while maintaining customer trust. Many invest in localized suppliers or diversify their logistics networks to mitigate risks.
Another critical impact is the change in consumer expectations. With heightened reliance on online shopping, customers demand faster deliveries, seamless user experiences, and flexible return policies. Businesses respond by optimizing their websites, expanding delivery options, and integrating AI-driven customer support. Contactless payments and curbside pickups also become standard offerings to address health concerns.
The pandemic also highlights the importance of digital resilience. Cyberattacks and fraud attempts rise as more transactions move online, forcing e-commerce platforms to strengthen security measures. Additionally, businesses must scale their IT infrastructure to handle increased traffic without compromising performance.
While e-commerce thrives during a pandemic, the long-term effects include increased competition and the need for continuous innovation. Companies that leverage data analytics, automation, and omnichannel strategies gain a competitive edge.
Ultimately, a pandemic acts as a catalyst for e-commerce growth but also exposes vulnerabilities in supply chains, technology, and customer service. Businesses that adapt swiftly and prioritize agility are best positioned to succeed in the post-pandemic digital economy.
Question:-8
What are e-Commerce revenue models? Explain their various types.
Answer:
E-Commerce Revenue Models: Types and Explanations
E-commerce revenue models define how online businesses generate income from their digital operations. These models determine the financial structure and profitability potential of online ventures. As digital commerce continues to evolve, various revenue models have emerged to cater to different business needs and market demands.
Retail Sales Model (B2C) The most traditional e-commerce model involves selling products directly to consumers through online storefronts. Businesses purchase or manufacture goods and sell them at a markup. This includes both inventory-based models (holding physical stock) and dropshipping arrangements (third-party fulfillment).
Subscription Model Businesses charge recurring fees for continued access to products or services. This model provides predictable revenue and enhances customer loyalty. Examples include software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms, monthly product boxes, and premium content memberships.
Marketplace Model Platforms connect buyers and sellers while taking a commission on each transaction. These digital marketplaces generate revenue through listing fees, transaction percentages, or premium seller services. Amazon and Etsy exemplify this approach.
Advertising Model Free platforms monetize through targeted ads, sponsorships, and promotional content. Revenue comes from pay-per-click, impression-based, or fixed-fee advertising arrangements. Social media platforms and content sites frequently use this model.
Affiliate Marketing Businesses earn commissions by promoting other companies' products. Revenue is generated through referral links when purchases occur. This performance-based model requires minimal infrastructure as affiliates don't handle inventory.
Freemium Model Basic services are offered for free while premium features require payment. This approach attracts users with free offerings and converts a percentage to paying customers for enhanced functionality or content.
Licensing Model Companies license their digital products, technology, or content to other businesses. This includes white-label solutions, API access, or digital media rights, generating recurring royalty payments.
Each revenue model presents unique advantages and challenges regarding startup costs, scalability, and customer acquisition strategies. Successful e-commerce businesses often combine multiple models or adapt them to specific market conditions. The choice depends on factors like target audience, product type, and competitive landscape, with hybrid approaches becoming increasingly common in today's digital economy.
Question:-9
What is the difference between NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS?
Answer:
Differences Between NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS Payment Systems
India's digital banking ecosystem offers three primary electronic fund transfer mechanisms – NEFT, RTGS, and IMPS – each serving distinct purposes with unique operational characteristics.
1. NEFT (National Electronic Funds Transfer) NEFT operates in hourly batches for fund transfers with no minimum amount requirement. Transactions are processed in 48 half-hourly slots between 8 am to 6:30 pm on working days, with settlements occurring within 2 hours. This system is ideal for non-urgent transfers of any amount, with banks typically charging nominal fees. NEFT transactions are irreversible once processed.
2. RTGS (Real Time Gross Settlement) Designed for high-value transactions, RTGS processes payments in real-time on individual order basis with a minimum transfer limit of ₹2 lakhs (no upper ceiling). Available during banking hours (9 am to 4:30 pm on weekdays, till 2 pm on Saturdays), it ensures immediate credit to beneficiary accounts. RTGS is preferred for large corporate transactions and interbank transfers where time sensitivity is crucial. Banks levy higher charges compared to NEFT due to the real-time processing.
3. IMPS (Immediate Payment Service) IMPS revolutionized digital payments by enabling 24/7 instant money transfers, including holidays. With a maximum limit of ₹5 lakhs per transaction, it works through mobile banking, internet banking, or ATMs using MMID (Mobile Money Identifier). IMPS transactions settle within seconds, making it suitable for urgent low-to-medium value transfers. The service charges are typically lower than RTGS but higher than NEFT for equivalent amounts.
Key Distinctions:
- Timing: IMPS (24/7) vs NEFT/RTGS (banking hours)
- Settlement: RTGS (real-time) vs NEFT (batched) vs IMPS (instant)
- Amount Limits: RTGS (₹2L min) vs IMPS (₹5L max) vs NEFT (no limits)
- Cost Structure: RTGS (highest) vs IMPS (moderate) vs NEFT (lowest)
While RTGS handles large corporate transfers, NEFT serves scheduled bulk payments, and IMPS caters to immediate retail transactions. Together, these systems form the backbone of India's digital payment infrastructure, each complementing the others to serve different banking needs. The choice depends on transaction urgency, amount involved, and time of transfer.
Question:-10
State the differences between HTTP and HTTPS.
Answer:
Differences Between HTTP and HTTPS
HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) and HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) are both communication protocols used for transferring data over the web, but they differ significantly in security, functionality, and performance.
1. Security
The primary difference lies in security. HTTP transmits data in plain text, making it vulnerable to interception, eavesdropping, and man-in-the-middle attacks. In contrast, HTTPS encrypts data using SSL/TLS (Secure Sockets Layer/Transport Layer Security), ensuring confidentiality and integrity. This encryption prevents hackers from reading or modifying sensitive information like passwords, credit card details, and personal data.
2. Port Usage
HTTP operates on Port 80, while HTTPS uses Port 443 for secure communication. The different ports help servers distinguish between encrypted and unencrypted requests.
3. Authentication & Trust
HTTPS requires a digital certificate issued by a trusted Certificate Authority (CA). This certificate verifies the website's authenticity, protecting users from phishing scams. HTTP lacks this verification, making it easier for attackers to impersonate legitimate websites.
4. SEO & Browser Warnings
Search engines like Google prioritize HTTPS websites in rankings, penalizing HTTP sites. Modern browsers (Chrome, Firefox) also display "Not Secure" warnings for HTTP pages, discouraging users from visiting them.
5. Performance & Speed
Historically, HTTPS was slower due to encryption overhead, but modern advancements (HTTP/2, TLS 1.3) have minimized this gap. Today, HTTPS often performs better because it supports newer optimization techniques.
6. Data Integrity
HTTPS ensures that data remains unaltered during transfer, while HTTP offers no protection against tampering.
Conclusion
HTTPS is the secure, modern standard for web communication, while HTTP is outdated and risky. With growing cyber threats, HTTPS has become essential for privacy, security, and SEO. Most websites today enforce HTTPS by default, ensuring safer browsing for users.
Section – C
Question:-11
What are the differences between traditional payment and e-payment?
Answer:
Differences Between Traditional Payment and E-Payment
Traditional payments involve physical exchanges like cash, checks, or card swipes, requiring face-to-face transactions. E-payments (electronic payments) are digital, processed online via mobile wallets, UPI, credit/debit cards, or internet banking.
1. Mode of Transaction:
- Traditional: Cash, checks, demand drafts
- E-payment: Digital transfers (UPI, net banking, e-wallets)
2. Speed & Convenience:
- Traditional: Slower processing (bank visits, clearance delays)
- E-payment: Instant, 24/7 transactions
3. Security Risks:
- Traditional: Prone to theft/loss (cash) or forgery (checks)
- E-payment: Encrypted but vulnerable to cyber fraud
4. Accessibility:
- Traditional: Requires physical presence
- E-payment: Remote, global access
5. Record-Keeping:
- Traditional: Manual tracking
- E-payment: Automated digital records
6. Cost:
- Traditional: Higher (printing checks, ATM fees)
- E-payment: Lower fees but may incur service charges
E-payments dominate modern commerce due to speed and convenience, while traditional methods persist for cash-dependent or unbanked populations. Both have distinct advantages based on use cases.
Question:-12
Write a short note on impact of emerging technologies on e-commerce.
Answer:
Impact of Emerging Technologies on E-Commerce
Emerging technologies are revolutionizing e-commerce by enhancing efficiency, personalization, and security. Artificial Intelligence (AI) powers chatbots, recommendation engines, and dynamic pricing, improving customer engagement. Augmented Reality (AR) enables virtual try-ons, reducing return rates for fashion and furniture brands.
Blockchain ensures transparent, secure transactions and combats counterfeit products. Internet of Things (IoT) facilitates smart inventory management and automated reordering through connected devices. Voice Commerce, driven by smart assistants like Alexa, enables hands-free shopping.
5G accelerates mobile commerce with faster load times and seamless video shopping experiences. Machine Learning (ML) optimizes logistics, predicting demand and streamlining delivery routes.
These innovations create hyper-personalized, frictionless shopping experiences while boosting operational efficiency. As technology evolves, e-commerce will become more immersive, secure, and customer-centric, reshaping retail’s future.
Question:-13
What are the features of a virtual currency?
Answer:
Features of Virtual Currency
Virtual currency is a digital representation of value that operates independently of central banks. Key features include:
- Decentralization – Most virtual currencies (e.g., Bitcoin) use blockchain technology, eliminating intermediaries like banks.
- Digital-Only Existence – Purely electronic, with no physical form like cash or coins.
- Pseudonymity – Transactions are linked to digital wallets rather than real-world identities, offering partial privacy.
- Global Accessibility – Can be used across borders without traditional banking restrictions.
- Limited Supply – Many virtual currencies have a fixed cap (e.g., Bitcoin’s 21 million limit) to prevent inflation.
- Security – Cryptographic techniques ensure secure transactions and prevent counterfeiting.
- Volatility – Prices fluctuate rapidly due to speculative trading and market demand.
- Programmability – Smart contracts (e.g., Ethereum) enable automated, self-executing agreements.
Unlike fiat currency, virtual currencies are not government-issued but are gaining acceptance in e-commerce, investments, and decentralized finance (DeFi).
Question:-14
Explain the significance of E-auction.
Answer:
Significance of E-Auction
E-auction (electronic auction) has transformed traditional bidding processes by leveraging digital platforms, offering efficiency, transparency, and wider accessibility. Its key benefits include:
- Global Reach – Buyers and sellers worldwide can participate, expanding market opportunities beyond geographical limits.
- Cost Efficiency – Reduces overheads associated with physical auctions (venue, travel, paperwork) while automating processes.
- Transparency & Fairness – Real-time bidding, automated timers, and public records minimize manipulation, ensuring competitive pricing.
- Convenience – 24/7 accessibility allows participants to bid remotely via devices, saving time and effort.
- Faster Transactions – Digital documentation and instant payments accelerate deal closures compared to manual auctions.
- Diverse Applications – Used in procurement (B2B/B2G), art sales, government tenders, and surplus asset liquidation.
E-auctions also promote sustainability by reducing paper use and carbon footprints. With secure encryption and audit trails, they enhance trust in high-stake transactions, making them indispensable in modern commerce.
