IGNOU FREE BCOS-184 E-Commerce Solved Guess Paper 2025

Question 1: What is E-commerce and what are its types?

E-commerce, or electronic commerce, refers to buying and selling goods and services over the internet. It uses digital platforms to conduct transactions, manage supply chains, and enhance customer relationships. E-commerce has transformed traditional business models by providing a global marketplace and faster, cost-effective transactions.

Types of E-commerce:

1. B2B (Business-to-Business): Transactions between companies. Example: Alibaba supplies raw materials to manufacturers.

2. B2C (Business-to-Consumer): Businesses sell products directly to consumers online. Example: Amazon, Flipkart.

3. C2C (Consumer-to-Consumer): Consumers sell products or services to other consumers via platforms. Example: eBay, OLX.

4. C2B (Consumer-to-Business): Consumers offer products or services to businesses. Example: Freelance services on Fiverr.

5. B2G (Business-to-Government): Businesses provide products or services to government bodies.

Advantages of E-commerce:

• Wider market reach across geographical boundaries.

• Reduced operational costs compared to physical stores.

• Convenience for customers with 24/7 access.

• Quick communication and feedback mechanisms.

• Easy tracking of sales, inventory, and consumer behavior.

Challenges:

• Cybersecurity threats.

• Lack of personal interaction in B2C.

• Logistics and delivery issues.

E-commerce is not limited to retail; it includes services, banking, education, and online marketplaces. Its growth is driven by internet penetration, smartphones, and digital payment systems. Businesses adopting e-commerce gain a competitive edge by leveraging technology to streamline operations, improve customer satisfaction, and increase revenue.

Buy IGNOU Solved Guess Paper With Important Questions  :-

Question 2: Explain E-Payment systems and their significance.

E-payment systems allow customers to make payments electronically without using cash or checks. They are essential for online transactions and facilitate fast, secure, and convenient payments.

Types of E-payment systems:

1. Credit/Debit Cards: Most common method for online shopping; includes Visa, MasterCard, etc.

2. Digital Wallets: Applications like Paytm, Google Pay, and PayPal that store money for online transactions.

3. Bank Transfers/NEFT/RTGS: Direct transfers from one bank account to another.

4. UPI (Unified Payment Interface): Instant payments via mobile apps.

5. Cryptocurrency Payments: Bitcoin, Ethereum used for some online platforms.

Significance:

• Speed and convenience: Transactions are instant and accessible 24/7.

• Security: Encrypted transactions protect financial information.

• Reduced cash handling: Minimizes risks associated with physical cash.

• Global reach: Enables cross-border transactions.

• Record-keeping: Transaction history is automatically maintained, aiding in accounting and analysis.

Challenges:

• Fraud and phishing attacks.

• Payment gateway failures.

• Regulatory compliance and taxation.

Overall, E-payment systems are integral to the growth of e-commerce, providing trust, efficiency, and convenience for both businesses and consumers.

Question 3: What are the steps involved in Website Development?

Website development involves creating an online platform for businesses, services, or information. It includes planning, designing, coding, and deployment of websites.

Steps in Website Development:

1. Requirement Analysis: Identify the purpose, target audience, and features.

2. Planning and Sitemap Design: Organize website structure and navigation.

3. Design: Create visual layouts, UI/UX, and graphics.

4. Development: Writing HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and server-side code for functionality.

5. Testing: Check website for errors, broken links, and cross-browser compatibility.

6. Deployment: Host the website on a server with a domain name.

7. Maintenance: Regular updates, security patches, and performance improvements.

Importance:

• Establishes online presence.

• Enhances brand visibility.

• Enables direct customer interaction and e-commerce sales.

Web development is crucial for businesses to provide a seamless online experience, ensure accessibility, and facilitate digital marketing strategies.

Buy IGNOU Solved Guess Paper With Important Questions  :-

Question 4: Explain Website Hosting and its types.

Website hosting refers to storing website files on a server so they can be accessed online. Hosting is critical for website availability, speed, and reliability.

Types of Hosting:

1. Shared Hosting: Multiple websites share a server; cost-effective but limited resources.

2. Dedicated Hosting: Exclusive server for one website; high performance and security.

3. VPS Hosting (Virtual Private Server): Virtualized server with dedicated resources.

4. Cloud Hosting: Distributed servers for scalability and uptime.

5. Managed Hosting: Provider manages server maintenance, security, and updates.

Importance:

• Ensures 24/7 website accessibility.

• Provides security against hacking and downtime.

• Affects website speed, impacting user experience and SEO.

Good hosting enhances performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction, which is critical for e-commerce platforms.

Question 5: What is Cybersecurity and why is it important in E-commerce?

Cybersecurity refers to protecting computer systems, networks, and data from digital attacks. In e-commerce, it is vital because online transactions involve sensitive customer data, including personal details, payment information, and passwords.

Key threats:

• Malware and viruses.

• Phishing and social engineering attacks.

• Hacking and data breaches.

• Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks.

Cybersecurity Measures:

1. Firewalls and Antivirus software to block unauthorized access.

2. SSL Certificates to encrypt data transmitted online.

3. Two-factor authentication (2FA) for secure login.

4. Regular updates and patches to software and platforms.

5. Employee training to recognize threats.

Importance:

• Protects customer trust and business reputation.

• Prevents financial losses due to fraud.

• Ensures legal compliance with IT Acts and regulations.

Effective cybersecurity builds confidence in e-commerce platforms, encouraging more users to transact online safely.

Buy IGNOU Solved Guess Paper With Important Questions  :-

Question 6: Explain the IT Act and its relevance to E-commerce.

The Information Technology Act, 2000 (IT Act) is a legal framework in India governing electronic transactions, cybercrime, and digital signatures. It provides legitimacy and regulation for e-commerce businesses.

Key Provisions Relevant to E-commerce:

• Legal recognition of electronic records and signatures.

• Penalties for hacking, data theft, and online fraud.

• Regulation of digital contracts and online transactions.

• Cybercrime prevention and investigation guidelines.

Importance:

• Protects both consumers and businesses from fraudulent activities.

• Establishes guidelines for secure e-payment and online services.

• Encourages the adoption of digital commerce with legal safeguards.

Compliance with IT Act is mandatory for online businesses to avoid legal penalties and ensure customer trust.

Question 7: What are E-wallets and how do they function?

E-wallets are digital applications that store money electronically and facilitate online transactions. Users can link their bank accounts, credit/debit cards, or UPI to make instant payments.

Functioning of E-wallets:

• Users load money into the wallet.

• During purchase, the wallet balance is used to pay.

• Transactions are verified through passwords, PINs, or OTPs.

Advantages:

• Fast and convenient for online and offline payments.

• Reduces dependency on cash.

• Transaction records are automatically maintained.

Popular E-wallets include Paytm, Google Pay, PhonePe, and PayPal. E-wallets have become essential for digital commerce by providing quick and secure payment options.

Buy IGNOU Solved Guess Paper With Important Questions  :-

Question 8: Describe Online Portals and their business importance.

Online portals are websites or platforms offering multiple services and content in one place. Businesses use portals to provide information, services, and facilitate transactions.

Features:

• User registration and login.

• Product or service catalog.

• Search and navigation tools.

• Payment gateway integration.

Importance:

• Centralized access to products/services.

• Enhances customer engagement and loyalty.

• Facilitates sales and marketing campaigns.

• Example: Amazon, Flipkart, MakeMyTrip.

Online portals improve operational efficiency and help businesses reach a wider audience digitally.

Question 9: Explain the steps to develop a secure e-commerce website.

Developing a secure e-commerce website involves:

1. Planning and Requirement Analysis – Understand business goals and user needs.

2. Secure Web Hosting – Use dedicated or cloud servers with security measures.

3. Website Design and Development – Include HTTPS, SSL, and secure login mechanisms.

4. Payment Gateway Integration – Ensure encrypted transactions.

5. Testing – Perform security audits, penetration testing, and vulnerability checks.

6. Deployment and Maintenance – Regular updates, patches, and monitoring.

Security ensures customer data protection, compliance with IT laws, and builds trust, which is crucial for successful e-commerce operations.

Buy IGNOU Solved Guess Paper With Important Questions  :-

Question 10: What is the role of E-commerce applications in modern business?

E-commerce applications are software platforms that facilitate online business operations, such as shopping apps, service booking apps, and digital marketplaces.

Roles and Benefits:

• Facilitates online sales and expands market reach.

• Automates business processes like inventory, order management, and payment processing.

• Enhances customer experience through personalization, recommendations, and notifications.

• Provides analytics for sales, traffic, and customer behavior.

Examples include Amazon, Flipkart, Shopify, and Uber. E-commerce applications allow businesses to operate 24/7, reduce operational costs, and improve efficiency and profitability.

Buy IGNOU Solved Guess Paper With Important Questions  :-

 Follow For Updates: senrigbookhouse

Read Also :

• IGNOU FREE BCOS-184 ई कॉमर्स Solved Guess Paper With Imp Questions 2025