CompTIA N10-008 CompTIA Network+ Exam Exam Practice Test

Short Explanation: The switch feature that is most likely to be used to assist with logging IPv6 and MAC addresses of devices on a network segment is Neighbor Discovery Protocol (NDP). NDP is used by IPv6 to discover and maintain information about other nodes on the network, including their IPv6 and MAC addresses. By periodically querying NDP, the administrator can log this information for auditing purposes.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Exam N10-007, Fourth Edition, Chapter 2: The OSI Model and Networking Protocols, Objective 2.1: Compare and contrast TCP and UDP ports, protocols, and their purposes.

 Port 23 should be blocked when checking firewall configuration to prevent outside users from telnetting into any of the servers at the datacenter. Port 23 is the default port for Telnet, which is an insecure protocol that allows remote access to servers and network devices. Telnet sends data in clear text, which can be easily intercepted and compromised by attackers. A more secure alternative is SSH, which uses port 22 and encrypts data. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/routing-information-protocol-rip/13788-3.html

The nslookup command should be run to confirm the server name for all Linux servers. Nslookup is a tool that queries DNS servers to resolve hostnames to IP addresses or vice versa. It can also provide other information about DNS records, such as MX, NS, SOA, etc. By running nslookup with the IP address of a Linux server, the technician can obtain its hostname. References: https://www.howtogeek.com/663056/how-to-use-the-nslookup-command-on-linux/

To detect the exact break point of a fiber link, an engineer should use an OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer). This device sends a series of pulses into the fiber, measuring the time it takes for the pulses to reflect back, and can pinpoint the exact location of the break.

References:

• Network+ N10-007 Certification Exam Objectives, Objective 2.5: Given a scenario, troubleshoot copper cable issues.
• FS: OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) Testing Principle and Applications

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is a routing protocol used to exchange route information between public autonomous systems (AS). OSPF (Open Shortest Path First), EGRIP (Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol), and RIP (Routing Information Protocol) are all used for internal routing within a single AS. Therefore, BGP is the correct option to choose for this question.

References:

• Network+ N10-007 Certification Exam Objectives, Objective 3.3: Given a scenario, configure and apply the appropriate routing protocol.
• Cisco: Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) Overview

A VoIP sales call with a customer would be most affected by jitter greater than 10ms on the WAN connection. Jitter is the variation in delay of packets arriving at the destination. It can cause choppy or distorted audio quality for VoIP applications, especially over WAN links that have limited bandwidth and high latency. The recommended jitter for VoIP is less than 10ms. References: https://www.voip-info.org/voip-jitter/

When evaluating a firewall to protect a datacenter’s east-west traffic, it is important to consider traffic between VMs running on different hosts. This type of traffic is referred to as east-west traffic and is often protected by internal firewalls. By implementing firewalls, an organization can protect their internal network against threats such as lateral movement, which can be caused by attackers who have breached a perimeter firewall. References: Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Security

The DNS record that works as an alias to another record is called CNAME (Canonical Name). CNAME records are used to create an alias for a domain name that points to another domain name.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Exam N10-007, Fourth Edition, Chapter 2: The OSI Model and Networking Protocols, Objective 2.3: Given a scenario, implement and configure the appropriate addressing schema.

The most likely cause of the issue where the fiber connection from a device to a switch is not working is that the TX/RX (transmit/receive) is reversed. When connecting fiber optic cables, it is important to ensure that the TX of one device is connected to the RX of the other device and vice versa. If the TX/RX is reversed, data cannot be transmitted successfully.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Exam N10-007, Fourth Edition, Chapter 5: Network Operations, Objective 5.1: Given a scenario, use appropriate documentation and diagrams to manage the network.

 The software on the workstation should be configured to send the query to 10.1.2.255, which is the local subnet broadcast address. A broadcast address is a special address that allows a device to send a message to all devices on the same subnet. It is usually derived by setting all the host bits to 1 in the network address. In this case, the network address is 10.1.2.0/27, which has 27 network bits and 5 host bits. By setting all the host bits to 1, we get 10.1.2.31 as the broadcast address in decimal notation, or 10.1.2.255 in dotted decimal notation. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/routing-information-protocol-rip/13788-3.html

CRC stands for Cyclic Redundancy Check, and it is a type of error-detecting code used to detect accidental changes to raw data. If the CRC count is increasing on a particular interface, it indicates that there might be an issue with the cabling, which is causing data corruption. References:

• Network+ N10-008 Objectives: 2.1 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common physical connectivity issues.

To locate a device's network port on a switch, a technician should review the switch's MAC address table. The MAC address table maintains a list of MAC addresses of devices connected to each port on the switch. By checking the MAC address of the device in question, the technician can identify the port to which the device is connected.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Sixth Edition by Glen E. Clarke

RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is the best option for a network technician to use when installing new software on a Windows-based server in a different geographical location. This protocol allows the technician to connect to the server remotely and control it as if they were physically present.

References:

• Network+ N10-007 Certification Exam Objectives, Objective 2.2: Given a scenario, implement the appropriate network-based security and troubleshoot common connectivity issues.

SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) is a connector type that has the most flexibility. It is a hot-swappable transceiver that can support different speeds, distances, and media types depending on the module inserted. It can be used for both copper and fiber connections and supports various protocols such as Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and SONET. References: https://www.fs.com/what-is-sfp-transceiver-aid-11.html

Asset tags will allow the technician to record changes to new and old equipment when installing multiple UPS units in a major retail store. Asset tags are labels or stickers that are attached to physical assets such as computers, printers, servers, or UPS units. They usually contain information such as asset name, serial number, barcode, QR code, or RFID chip that can be scanned or read by an asset management system or software. Asset tags help track inventory, location, status, maintenance, and ownership of assets. References: https://www.camcode.com/asset-tags/asset-tagging-guide/

The IP address configured on the router interface is 196.26.4.1/26, which belongs to the IP range assigned by the ISP (196.26.4.0/26). However, this IP address is not valid for this interface because it is the network address of the subnet, which cannot be assigned to any host device. The network address is the first address of a subnet that identifies the subnet itself. The valid IP addresses for this subnet are from 196.26.4.1 to 196.26.4.62, excluding the network address (196.26.4.0) and the broadcast address (196.26.4.63). The router interface should be configured with a valid IP address within this range to restore Internet connectivity for all users. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.techopedia.com/definition/24136/network-address

To resolve the issue of DHCP scope exhaustion without creating a new DHCP pool, the administrator can reduce the lease time. By decreasing the lease time, the IP addresses assigned by DHCP will be released back to the DHCP scope more quickly, allowing them to be assigned to new devices.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Exam N10-007, Fourth Edition, Chapter 2: The OSI Model and Networking Protocols, Objective 2.3: Given a scenario, implement and configure the appropriate addressing schema.
• https://www.networkcomputing.com/data-centers/10-tips-optimizing-dhcp-performance

Channel overlap is a common cause of wireless connectivity issues, especially in high-density environments where multiple APs are operating on the same or adjacent frequencies. Channel overlap can cause interference, signal degradation, and performance loss for wireless devices. The AP association time, EIRP, and RSSI are not likely to cause frequent disconnects and reconnects for wireless users.

A virtual IP (VIP) address must be configured to ensure connectivity during a failover. A VIP address is a single IP address that is assigned to a group of servers or network devices. When one device fails, traffic is automatically rerouted to the remaining devices, and the VIP address is reassigned to the backup device, allowing clients to continue to access the service without interruption.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Exam N10-007, Fourth Edition, Chapter 6: Network Servers, p. 300

A captive portal is a web page that requires users to authenticate before they can access the internet. If the session time-out configuration is too short, users may experience intermittent internet connectivity and have to reconnect using the web authentication process each time. The network administrator can verify the session time-out configuration on the captive portal settings and adjust it if needed. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: N10-006), Domain 1.0 Network Architecture, Objective 1.8 Explain the purposes and use cases for advanced networking devices.

The network administrator should check the roaming settings on the APs and WLAN clients first. Roaming is the process of switching from one AP to another without losing connectivity. If the roaming settings are not configured properly, some users may experience poor connectivity when their devices stay connected to a distant AP instead of switching to a closer one. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless-mobility/wireless-lan-wlan/82068-roam-faq.html

The attacker attempting to find the password to a network by inputting common words and phrases in plaintext to the password prompt is using a dictionary attack. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 6: Network Attacks and Mitigation.

First Hop Redundancy Protocol (FHRP) provides a failover mechanism for the default gateway, allowing a backup gateway to take over if the primary gateway fails. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 4: Infrastructure.

Port security is a feature that restricts input to a switch port by limiting and identifying MAC addresses of the devices allowed to access the port. This prevents unintended connections from unauthorized devices or spoofed MAC addresses. Port security can also be configured to take actions such as shutting down the port or sending an alert when a violation occurs. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst9500/software/release/16-10/configuration_guide/sec/b_1610_sec_9500_cg/b_1610_sec_9500_cg_chapter_0101010.html

The issue of WIFI users being unable to connect while WLAN users on the guest network can access all resources indicates a problem with channel overlap or interference. By reconfiguring the channels, interference can be minimized, improving connectivity for WIFI users. According to the table, AP 1 and AP 2 are using adjacent channels (2 and 1), which can cause interference. AP 3 and AP 4 are using non-overlapping channels (5 and 11), but they have very high RSSI values (-44dBm and -41dBm), which can also cause interference. A possible solution is to use only non-overlapping channels (such as 1, 6, and 11) and adjust the power levels to avoid excessive signal strength. References: Wireless Troubleshooting – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 5.4, Network Troubleshooting Methodology - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 5.1

An IP header can be found at the third layer of the OSI model, also known as the network layer. This layer is responsible for logical addressing, routing, and forwarding of data packets.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Exam N10-007, Fourth Edition, Chapter 2: Network Models, p. 82

Reverse Address Resolution Protocol (RARP) is a protocol that allows a device to obtain its MAC address from its IP address. A MAC spoofing attack is an attack where a device pretends to have a different MAC address than its actual one. RARP can be used to detect a MAC spoofing attack by comparing the MAC address obtained from RARP with the MAC address obtained from other sources, such as ARP or DHCP. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.techopedia.com/definition/25597/reverse-address-resolution-protocol-rarp

In a star topology, all devices on a network connect to a central hub or switch, which acts as a common connection point. Ethernet LANs typically use a star topology, with each device connected to a central switch. References:

• Network+ N10-008 Objectives: 2.2 Explain common logical network topologies and their characteristics.

Screened Subnet devices – Web server, FTP server

Building A devices – SSH server top left, workstations on all 5 on the right, laptop on bottom left

DataCenter devices – DNS server.

A screenshot of a computer Description automatically generated

CVE stands for Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures, which is a list of publicly disclosed cybersecurity vulnerabilities that is free to search, use, and incorporate into products and services. CVE provides a standardized identifier and description for each vulnerability, as well as references to related sources of information. CVE helps to track and document various types of known vulnerabilities and facilitates communication and coordination among security professionals.

References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://cve.mitre.org/cve/

A wireless controller is used to manage a corporate WLAN, providing centralized management and configuration of access points. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 8: Wireless Networks.

East-West traffic refers to data flows between servers or devices within the same datacenter. When a hosted virtual server is duplicated to another physical server for redundancy, it generates significant East-West traffic as the data is replicated between the two servers. References:

• Network+ N10-008 Objectives: 3.3 Given a scenario, implement secure network architecture concepts.

According to troubleshooting methodology, after determining the most likely probable cause of an issue, the next step is to establish a plan of action to resolve the issue and identify potential effects. This step involves defining the steps needed to implement a solution, considering the possible consequences of each step, and obtaining approval from relevant stakeholders if necessary. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.comptia.org/blog/the-comptia-guide-to-it-troubleshooting

IDS stands for intrusion detection system, which is a network appliance that monitors network traffic and alerts administrators of any suspicious or malicious activity. An IDS can warn of unapproved devices that are accessing the network by detecting anomalies, signatures, or behaviors that indicate unauthorized access attempts or attacks. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/security/what-is-an-intrusion-detection-system-ids.html

A hot site is a fully redundant site that can take over operations immediately if the primary site goes down. In this scenario, the company has set up two different datacenters across the country that are current on data and applications, and they can immediately switch from one datacenter to another in case of an outage. References:

• Network+ N10-008 Objectives: 1.5 Compare and contrast disaster recovery concepts and methodologies.

Updating the firewalls with current firmware and software is an important step to ensure all the firewalls are hardened successfully, as it can fix any known vulnerabilities or bugs and provide new features or enhancements. Enabling an implicit permit rule is not a good practice for firewall hardening, as it can allow unwanted traffic to pass through the firewall. Configuring the log settings on the firewalls to the central syslog server is a good practice for monitoring and auditing purposes, but it does not harden the firewalls themselves. Using the same complex passwords on all firewalls is not a good practice for password security, as it can increase the risk of compromise if one firewall is breached. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: N10-006), Domain 3.0 Network Security, Objective 3.3 Given a scenario, implement network hardening techniques.

NIC teaming, also known as network interface card teaming or link aggregation, allows multiple network interface cards to be grouped together to provide redundancy and increased throughput. In the event of a port failure on a switch, NIC teaming ensures that the file server remains connected to the LAN by automatically switching to another network interface card.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Sixth Edition by Glen E. Clarke

The maximum transmission unit (MTU) is the largest size of a data packet that can be transmitted over a network. A standard Ethernet frame supports an MTU of 1500 bytes, which is the default value for most Ethernet networks. Larger MTUs are possible with jumbo frames, but they are not widely supported and may cause fragmentation or compatibility issues. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maximum_transmission_unit

A default gateway is a device that routes traffic from one network to another network, such as the Internet. A default gateway is usually configured on each host device to specify the IP address of the router that connects the host’s network to other networks. In this case, the user’s device and the destination device are on different networks (192.168.1.0/24 and 192.168.2.0/24), so the user needs to configure a default gateway on their device to reach the destination device. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.techopedia.com/definition/25761/default-gateway

CPU utilization is a metric that measures the percentage of time a CPU spends executing instructions. When the logging level is set for debugging, the router may generate a large amount of logging data, which can increase CPU utilization and cause the router to stop responding to requests intermittently. References:

• Network+ N10-008 Objectives: 2.1 Given a scenario, troubleshoot common physical connectivity issues.

Bandwidth management is used to prioritize Internet usage per application and per user on the network. This allows an organization to allocate network resources to mission-critical applications and users, while limiting the bandwidth available to non-business-critical applications. References: Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Operations

On the first exhibit, the layout should be as follows

Graphical user interface, text, application, chat or text message Description automatically generated

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Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

Exhibit 2 as follows

Access Point Name AP2

Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

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Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

Exhibit 3 as follows

Access Point Name AP3

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Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

Implementing file integrity monitoring (FIM) would assist with detecting activities such as website defacement or internal system attacks. FIM is a process that monitors and alerts on changes to files or directories that are critical for security or functionality. FIM can help detect unauthorized modifications, malware infections, data breaches, or configuration errors. FIM can also help with compliance and auditing requirements. References: https://www.tripwire.com/state-of-security/security-data-protection/cyber-security/what-is-file-integrity-monitoring/

TTL (Time To Live) should be adjusted to address the issue of some visitors being unable to access the website after the A record was updated. TTL is a value that specifies how long a DNS record should be cached by DNS servers and clients before it expires and needs to be refreshed. If the TTL is too high, some DNS servers and clients may still use the old A record that points to the previous IP address of the website, resulting in connection failures. By lowering the TTL, the DNS servers and clients will update their cache more frequently and use the new A record that points to the current IP address of the website. References: https://www.cloudflare.com/learning/dns/dns-records/dns-ttl/

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a system that would most likely be found in a screened subnet. A screened subnet, or triple-homed firewall, is a network architecture where a single firewall is used with three network interfaces. It provides additional protection from outside cyber attacks by adding a perimeter network to isolate or separate the internal network from the public-facing internet1. A screened subnet typically hosts systems that need to be accessed by both internal and external users, such as web servers, email servers, or FTP servers. References: https://www.techtarget.com/searchsecurity/definition/screened-subnet#:~:text=A%20screened%20subnet%2C%20or%20triple-homed%20firewall%2C%20refers%20to,a%20perimeter%20network%20to%20isolate%20or%20separate%20the  1

Next-generation firewalls can provide content filtering and threat protection, and can manage multiple IPSec site-to-site connections. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Security.

A Layer 3 switch will likely replace all the company's hubs when implementing OSPF on all of its network devices. A Layer 3 switch combines the functionality of a traditional Layer 2 switch with the routing capabilities of a router. By implementing OSPF on a Layer 3 switch, an organization can improve network performance and reduce the risk of network congestion. References: Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Security

802.11ax is the latest WiFi standard that improves WiFi performance in densely populated environments and supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. 802.11ac is the previous standard that only supports 5 GHz band. 802.11g and 802.11n are older standards that support 2.4 GHz band only or both bands respectively. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.techtarget.com/searchnetworking/tip/Whats-the-difference-between-80211ax-vs-80211ac

802.11a/b/g/n/ac wireless networks operate in two frequency ranges: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The 5 GHz frequency range supports more channels than the 2.4 GHz frequency range, making it a better choice for high-density wireless networks.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Sixth Edition by Glen E. Clarke

Coaxial cable is a type of cable that consists of a central copper conductor surrounded by an insulating layer and a braided metal shield. Coaxial cable is commonly used to connect a cable modem to an ISP by transmitting data over cable television networks. Coaxial cable can support high bandwidth and long distances with minimal interference or attenuation. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.techopedia.com/definition/4027/coaxial-cable

A content delivery network (CDN) is a distributed network of servers that delivers web content to users based on their geographic location. By replicating content across multiple servers in various locations, a CDN can optimize speed and reduce latency in high-density user locations.

TCP/UDP port 5060 is commonly used by VoIP phones. It is the default port for SIP (Session Initiation Protocol), which is a signaling protocol that establishes, modifies, and terminates multimedia sessions over IP networks. SIP is widely used for VoIP applications such as voice and video calls. References: https://www.voip-info.org/session-initiation-protocol/

An extended service set (ESS) is a wireless network that consists of multiple access points (APs) that share the same SSID and are connected by a wired network. An ESS allows wireless clients to roam seamlessly between different APs without losing connectivity. A basic service set (BSS) is a wireless network that consists of a single AP and its associated clients. An independent basic service set (IBSS) is a wireless network that consists of a group of clients that communicate directly without an AP. A unified service set is not a standard term for a wireless network. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Service_set_(802.11_network)

Zero Trust is a security framework that requires all users, whether in or outside the organization’s network, to be authenticated, authorized, and continuously validated for security configuration and posture before being granted or keeping access to applications and data. Zero Trust prevents attackers from moving laterally through a system by applying granular policies and controls based on the principle of least privilege and by segmenting and encrypting data flows across the network. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.crowdstrike.com/cybersecurity-101/zero-trust-security/

SSID (Service Set Identifier) is a feature that should be configured to allow different wireless access through the same equipment. SSID is the name of a wireless network that identifies it from other networks in the same area. A wireless access point (AP) can support multiple SSIDs with different security settings and network policies. For example, a store owner can create one SSID for business equipment and another SSID for patron use, and assign different passwords, VLANs, and QoS levels for each SSID. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless-mobility/wireless-lan-wlan/70931-multiple-ssid.html

Decreasing the lease duration on the DHCP server will cause clients to renew their IP address leases more frequently, freeing up IP addresses for other clients to use. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 3: IP Addressing.

A spectrum analyzer is a tool that measures the frequency and amplitude of signals in a wireless network. It can be used to troubleshoot issues related to interference from other networks and non-802.11 devices, such as microwave ovens or cordless phones, by identifying the sources and levels of interference in the wireless spectrum. A spectrum analyzer can also help to optimize the channel selection and placement of wireless access points. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network- n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.flukenetworks.com/blog/cabling-chronicles/what-spectrum-analyzer-and-how-do-you-use-it

The ifconfig eth0 promisc command should be run on the Linux computer to enable promiscuous mode, which allows the computer to capture all network traffic passing through the switch mirror port. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 7: Network Devices.

 Explanation: Tailgating is a physical security attack where an unauthorized person follows an authorized person into a restricted area without proper identification or authorization. The network administrator prevented this attack by stopping and directing the person to the security desk. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: N10-006), Domain 3.0 Network Security, Objective 3.1 Compare and contrast risk-related concepts.

The most effective security mechanism against physical intrusions due to stolen credentials would likely be a combination of several of these options. However, of the options provided, the most effective security mechanism would probably be an access control vestibule. An access control vestibule is a secure area that is located between the outer perimeter of a facility and the inner secure area. It is designed to provide an additional layer of security by requiring that individuals pass through a series of security checks before being allowed access to the secure area. This could include biometric authentication, access card readers, and motion detection cameras.

Access control vestibules allow the enforcement of the policy that access to a datacenter should be individually recorded by a card reader even when multiple employees enter the facility at the same time. An access control vestibule is a physical security device that consists of two doors with an interlocking mechanism. Only one door can be opened at a time, and only one person can pass through each door. This prevents tailgating or piggybacking, where unauthorized persons follow authorized persons into a secure area. An access control vestibule can also be integrated with a card reader or other authentication system to record each individual’s access. References: https://www.boonedam.us/blog/what-are-access-control-vestibules

A change management policy is a document that outlines the procedures and guidelines for making changes to a network or system, including how changes are approved, tested, and implemented. By following a change management policy, organizations can ensure that unnecessary modifications to the network are not permitted and version control is maintained. References:

• Network+ N10-008 Objectives: 1.6 Given a scenario, implement network configuration and change management best practices.

• The question asks about the metrics that will most accurately show the underlying performance issues of slow or unresponsive desktops for users who are using VMs (virtual machines).
• VMs are software-based simulations of physical computers that run on a host system. They share the resources of the host system, such as CPU, memory, disk space, etc.
• If the host system does not have enough resources to support the number of VMs running on it, the performance of the VMs will suffer. This is especially true if the VMs are running resource-intensive applications or tasks.
• Therefore, the metrics that will most accurately show the underlying performance issues are CPU usage and memory. These metrics indicate how much of the host system’s resources are being consumed by the VMs and how much is available for other processes.
• The other metrics are not relevant to the question, as they are related to the network performance, not the host system performance. They are:

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 1: Networking Concepts, Section 1.3: Virtualization and Network Storage Technologies, Pages 34-36
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course, Video 1.3: Virtualization and Network Storage Technologies, Part 1
• Network + N10-008 practice exam, Question 8, Answer A and B, Explanation

Mismatched duplex settings can cause an increase in CRC errors, which are errors in data transmission that can result in corrupted data. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 4: Infrastructure.

In a half-duplex link, devices can only send or receive data at one time, not simultaneously. Late collisions occur when devices transmit data at the same time after waiting for a clear channel. One of the causes of late collisions is excessive cable length, which increases the propagation delay and makes it harder for devices to detect collisions. The link termination, device configuration, and device hardware are not likely to cause late collisions on a half-duplex link.

QSFP+ is a transceiver type that can support up to 40Gbps. It stands for Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable Plus and uses four lanes of data to achieve high-speed transmission. It is commonly used for data center and high-performance computing applications. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/interfaces-modules/transceiver-modules/data_sheet_c78-660083.html

Reducing the wireless power levels can limit the range of the guest wireless network and prevent users in an adjacent building from connecting to it. Adjusting the wireless channels or enabling wireless client isolation will not affect the signal strength or coverage of the guest network. Enabling wireless port security will not work on a guest network that does not use authentication or MAC address filtering. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: N10-006), Domain 2.0 Network Operations, Objective 2.5 Given a scenario, implement appropriate wireless configuration settings; Guest WiFi Security - Cisco Umbrella

CRC errors are cyclic redundancy check errors that occur when data is corrupted during transmission. CRC errors are usually caused by physical layer issues such as faulty cables, connectors, ports, or interference. The network administrator will most likely start to troubleshoot at layer 1 of the OSI model, which is the physical layer that deals with the transmission of bits over a medium. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 2.0 (Exam Number: N10-006), Domain 4.0 Network Troubleshooting and Tools, Objective 4.1 Given a scenario, implement network troubleshooting methodology.

Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) should be enabled when configuring redundant network links between switches. STP ensures that only one active path is used at a time, preventing network loops and stability issues.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide

When a user reports being unable to access network resources after making some changes, the network technician should first ask the user what changes were made. This information can help the technician identify the cause of the issue and determine the appropriate course of action.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Sixth Edition by Glen E. Clarke

A subnet mask is a binary number that indicates which bits of an IP address belong to the network portion and which bits belong to the host portion. A slash notation (/n) indicates how many bits are used for the network portion. A /20 notation means that 20 bits are used for the network portion and 12 bits are used for the host portion. To convert /20 to a dotted decimal notation, we need to write 20 ones followed by 12 zeros in binary and then divide them into four octets separated by dots. This gives us 11111111.11111111.11110000.00000000 or 255.255.240.0 in decimal. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.techopedia.com/definition/950/subnet-mask

The reason why the alerts are not being received is that the network device is not configured to log that level to the syslog server. The severity level for the events may need to be adjusted in order for them to be sent to the syslog server. References: Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 8: Network Troubleshooting

A broadcast storm is most likely occurring when connecting multiple unmanaged Layer 2 switches with multiple connections between each pair. A broadcast storm is a situation where broadcast packets flood a network segment and consume all the available bandwidth. It can be caused by loops in the network topology, where broadcast packets are endlessly forwarded by switches without any loop prevention mechanism. Unmanaged switches do not support features such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) or Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP) that can detect and block loops. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/lan-switching/spanning-tree-protocol/10556-16.html

To improve performance for videoconferencing, the company should configure Quality of Service (QoS). This technology allows for the prioritization of network traffic, ensuring that videoconferencing traffic is given higher priority and therefore better performance. Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), Dynamic routing, Network load balancer, and Static IP addresses are not directly related to improving performance for videoconferencing.

References:

• Network+ N10-007 Certification Exam Objectives, Objective 2.6: Given a scenario, implement and configure the appropriate wireless security and implement the appropriate QoS concepts.

The dig command is used to query the NSs for a remote application. It is a command-line tool that is commonly used to troubleshoot DNS issues. When used with specific options, dig can be used to obtain information about domain names, IP addresses, and DNS records. References: Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Infrastructure

A reservation should be configured to ensure a device with a specific MAC address is always assigned the same IP address from DHCP. A reservation is a feature of DHCP that allows an administrator to assign a fixed IP address to a device based on its MAC address. This way, the device will always receive the same IP address from the DHCP server, even if it is powered off or disconnected from the network for a long time. References: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/troubleshoot/configure-dhcp-reservations

TACACS+ (Terminal Access Controller Access Control System Plus) can be used to centrally manage credentials for various types of administrative privileges on configured network devices. This protocol separates authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) functions, providing more granular control over access to network resources.

References:

• Network+ N10-007 Certification Exam Objectives, Objective 4.2: Given a scenario, implement secure network administration principles.

Tracert is a command-line tool that traces the route of a packet from a source to a destination and displays the number of hops and the round-trip time for each hop. The output shown in the question is an example of a tracert output, which shows five hops with their IP addresses and hostnames (if available) and three latency measurements for each hop in milliseconds. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.lumen.com/help/en-us/network/traceroute/understanding-the-traceroute-output.html

To determine what metrics can be gathered from a given switch, a technician should utilize the Management Information Base (MIB). The MIB is a database of network management information that is used to manage and monitor network devices. It contains information about device configuration, status, and performance. References: Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Security

NIC teaming is a technique that combines two or more network interface cards (NICs) on a server into a single logical interface that can increase bandwidth, provide redundancy, and balance traffic. NIC teaming can be configured with different modes and algorithms depending on the desired outcome. Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) is a protocol that enables NIC teaming by dynamically bundling multiple links between two devices into one logical link. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default-source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/networking/technologies/nic-teaming/nic-teaming

To find all devices connected within a network, a technician can use an IP scanner. An IP scanner sends a ping request to all IP addresses within a specified range and then identifies the active devices that respond to the request.

Using a bottom-to-top approach means starting from the physical layer and moving up the OSI model to troubleshoot a network problem. Checking for a link light is a physical layer check that verifies the connectivity of the network cable and device. References: https://www.professormesser.com/network-plus/n10-007/troubleshooting-methodologies-2/

TCP port 445 is used by the Windows OS for file sharing. It is also known as SMB (Server Message Block) or CIFS (Common Internet File System) and allows users to access files, printers, and other shared resources on a network. References: https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows-server/storage/file-server/troubleshoot/detect-enable-and-disable-smbv1-v2-v3

IaaS stands for Infrastructure as a Service, which is a cloud service model that provides virtualized computing resources over the Internet, such as servers, storage, networking, and operating systems. IaaS allows customers to replace their on-premises servers with cloud servers that can be scaled up or down on demand and pay only for what they use. PaaS stands for Platform as a Service, which provides customers with a cloud-based platform for developing, testing, and deploying applications without managing the underlying infrastructure. SaaS stands for Software as a Service, which provides customers with access to cloud-based software applications over the Internet without installing or maintaining them on their devices. Disaster recovery as a Service (DRaaS) is a type of cloud service that provides customers with backup and recovery solutions for their data and applications in case of a disaster.

Change management is the process of reviewing previous upgrades to a system. It is a systematic approach to managing changes to an organization's IT systems and infrastructure. Change management involves the assessment of potential risks associated with a change, as well as the identification of any necessary resources required to implement the change. References: Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 8: Network Troubleshooting

MDIX (medium-dependent interface crossover) is a feature that allows network devices to automatically detect and configure the appropriate cabling type, eliminating the need for crossover cables. By enabling MDIX on the switches, a technician can use the original Cat 6 cable to create a crossover connection.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Sixth Edition by Glen E. Clarke

CSMA/CA (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Avoidance) is an IEEE 802.11 standard that would be best to use for multiple simultaneous client access on a wireless network. CSMA/CA is a media access control method that allows multiple devices to share the same wireless channel without causing collisions or interference. It works by having each device sense the channel before transmitting data and waiting for an acknowledgment from the receiver after each transmission. If the channel is busy or no acknowledgment is received, the device will back off and retry later with a random delay. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless-mobility/wireless-lan-wlan/82068-csma-ca.html

Port mirroring is a method of monitoring network traffic by copying the data packets from one port to another port on the same switch or router. This allows the network security administrator to analyze the contents of the data sent between different networks without affecting the performance or security of the original traffic. Port mirroring can be configured to capture all traffic or only specific types of traffic, such as VLANs, protocols, or IP addresses.

References:

• Port Mirroring - CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Domain 3.1 - YouTube1
• CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 142

SSL is a widely used protocol for establishing secure, encrypted connections between devices over the Internet. It is typically used to secure communication between web browsers and servers, and can be easily enabled on a server by installing an SSL certificate.

• The Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) is a protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses and other network configuration parameters to network devices12. DHCP uses a client-server model, where a DHCP client requests an IP address from a DHCP server, and the DHCP server responds with an IP address and other information34.
• When a DHCP client and server are on the same physical network, the DHCP client broadcasts a DHCPDISCOVER message to find a DHCP server, and the DHCP server replies with a DHCPOFFER message containing an IP address offer34. The DHCP client then broadcasts a DHCPREQUEST message to request the IP address, and the DHCP server replies with a DHCPACK message to acknowledge the IP address assignment34.
• When a DHCP client and server are not on the same physical network, a DHCP relay is used to forward the DHCP messages between them56. A DHCP relay is a network device, such as a router or a switch, that listens for DHCP broadcast messages on one network interface and relays them to another network interface where the DHCP server is located56. The DHCP relay also adds the IP address of the network interface where the DHCP client is located to the DHCP messages, so that the DHCP server can determine which pool of IP addresses to use for the DHCP client56.
• The other options are not related to forwarding requests and replies between a DHCP server and client. A DHCP lease is the duration of time that a DHCP server assigns an IP address to a DHCP client78. A DHCP scope is a range of IP addresses that a DHCP server can assign to DHCP clients on a specific network segment78. A DHCP range is a subset of a DHCP scope that defines the start and end IP addresses that a DHCP server can assign to DHCP clients .
• Therefore, the best answer is A. Relay, which would be used to forward requests and replies between a DHCP server and client.

References:

• 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 215
• 2: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 9
• 3: [What is Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)? - Definition from WhatIs.com]
• 4: [Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) | CompTIA IT Certifications]
• 5: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 216
• 6: [What is DHCP Relay? - Definition from Techopedia]
• 7: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 217
• 8: [What is DHCP Lease? - Definition from Techopedia]
• : [What is DHCP Range? - Definition from Techopedia]
• : [DHCP Range | CompTIA IT Certifications]

PII stands for Personally Identifiable Information, which is any data that can be used to identify, contact, or locate a specific individual, such as name, address, phone number, email, social security number, and so on. PII should be safeguarded during an incident to protect the privacy and security of the individuals involved, and to comply with the legal and ethical obligations of the organization. One way to safeguard PII during an incident is to implement data encryption, which is a process of transforming data into an unreadable format that can only be accessed by authorized parties who have the decryption key. Data encryption can prevent unauthorized access, modification, or disclosure of PII by malicious actors or third parties. Another way to safeguard PII during an incident is to create a standardized procedure for deleting data that is no longer needed, such as after the incident is resolved or the investigation is completed. Deleting data that is no longer needed can reduce the risk of data breaches, data leaks, or data theft, and can also save storage space and resources. A standardized procedure for deleting data can ensure that the data is erased securely and completely, and that the deletion process is documented and audited.

References

• 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 304-305
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Subnetting Quiz, question 13
• 3: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Practice Test, question 5
• 4: Data Encryption – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 3.1

Port 25, by default, should be reserved for SMTP traffic to allow for a new cloud-based email server. SMTP stands for Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, which is a network protocol that enables email communication between mail servers and clients. SMTP uses port 25 as its default port for sending and receiving email messages over TCP/IP networks. A cloud-based email server is an email server that is hosted on a cloud service provider’s infrastructure, rather than on-premise or in-house. A cloud-based email server can offer advantages such as scalability, reliability, security, and cost-effectiveness. To allow for a new cloud-based email server, a firewall should be configured to open port 25 for SMTP traffic. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], What Is SMTP? | Mailtrap Blog, Cloud Email Server: What Is It & How Does It Work? | Zoho Mail

• A vulnerability scan is a process of identifying and reporting the weaknesses or flaws in a system or network that could be exploited by attackers. A vulnerability scan is conducted frequently to maintain an updated list of a system’s weaknesses, as new vulnerabilities may emerge over time due to changes in the system configuration, software updates, or external factors. A vulnerability scan can help to prioritize the remediation efforts and improve the security posture of the system or network.
• A penetration test is a process of simulating a real-world attack on a system or network to evaluate its security and identify the potential impact of a breach. A penetration test is conducted periodically or after a major change in the system or network, as it is more intrusive and time-consuming than a vulnerability scan. A penetration test can help to validate the effectiveness of the security controls and measures in place and provide recommendations for improvement.
• A posture assessment is a process of evaluating the current security status of a system or network against a set of standards or best practices. A posture assessment is conducted periodically or as part of a compliance audit, as it is more comprehensive and holistic than a vulnerability scan or a penetration test. A posture assessment can help to identify the gaps or weaknesses in the security policies, procedures, and practices and provide guidance for improvement.
• A risk assessment is a process of analyzing the likelihood and impact of various threats and vulnerabilities on a system or network. A risk assessment is conducted periodically or as part of a risk management process, as it is more strategic and business-oriented than a vulnerability scan, a penetration test, or a posture assessment. A risk assessment can help to determine the acceptable level of risk and the appropriate mitigation strategies and resources.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 8: Network Security Concepts and Tools, Section 8.2: Security Assessment Tools, Page 3721
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 8.2: Security Assessment Tools, Page 462
• What is a Vulnerability Scan? | Definition and Examples3
• What is a Penetration Test? | Definition and Examples
• What is a Security Posture Assessment? | Definition and Examples
• [What is a Risk Assessment? | Definition and Examples]

Elasticity is the ability of a cloud service to automatically adjust the amount of resources allocated to meet the changing demand of the users. Elasticity enables a cloud service to scale up or down resources quickly and efficiently, without requiring manual intervention or planning. Elasticity is ideal for scenarios where the demand is unpredictable, dynamic, or seasonal, such as online gaming tournaments. By using elasticity, the online gaming company can ensure optimal performance and user experience during peak times, while also saving costs and avoiding overprovisioning during off-peak times.

The other options are not correct because they do not address the specific needs of the online gaming company. They are:

•Scalability is the ability of a cloud service to handle an increase or decrease in the demand of the users by adding or removing resources. Scalability is similar to elasticity, but it is more manual, planned, and predictive, while elasticity is automatic, prompt, and reactive. Scalability is suitable for scenarios where the demand is steady, predictable, or gradual, such as a growing business or a long-term project.

•Hybrid is a type of cloud model that combines two or more clouds, such as on-premises private, hosted private, or public, that can be centrally managed to enable interoperability for various use cases. Hybrid cloud can offer benefits such as flexibility, security, and cost-efficiency, but it does not directly address the need for dynamic resource allocation for the online gaming company.

•Multitenancy is a feature of cloud services that allows multiple users or customers to share the same physical or virtual resources, such as servers, databases, or applications, while maintaining isolation and privacy. Multitenancy can offer benefits such as efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness, but it does not directly address the need for dynamic resource allocation for the online gaming company.

References

1: Understand cloud concepts | Microsoft Press Store

2: What Is Hybrid Cloud? - Cisco

3: Difference between Elasticity and Scalability in Cloud Computing

4: Scalability and Elasticity in Cloud Computing - GeeksforGeeks

• SFP stands for Small Form-factor Pluggable, which is a compact, hot-swappable network interface module that can be used for both telecommunication and data communications applications1.
• SFP transceivers can support different types of media and interfaces, such as copper or fiber cables, and have different data rates and distances1.
• Depending on the type of cable used, SFP transceivers feature different connectors. Generally speaking, SFP, SFP+ and SFP28 modules will use either LC or RJ45 connectors, depending on whether the cable is copper or fiber2.
• LC stands for Lucent Connector, which is a small form-factor fiber-optic connector that has a 1.25 mm ferrule and a push-pull coupling mechanism3. LC connectors are widely used for SFP transceivers that operate on fiber-optic cables14.
• RJ45 stands for Registered Jack 45, which is a standard connector for twisted pair copper cables that has eight pins and a modular design3. RJ45 connectors are used for SFP transceivers that operate on copper cables, such as 1000BASE-T SFP14.
• MT stands for Mechanical Transfer, which is a type of fiber-optic connector that has multiple fibers aligned in a ferrule and a pin-and-guide-hole alignment mechanism3. MT connectors are used for high-density applications, such as QSFP transceivers that operate on fiber-optic cables2.
• F-type stands for Female Type, which is a coaxial cable connector that has a screw-on design and a 75-ohm impedance3. F-type connectors are used for cable television, satellite television, and other radio frequency applications3.
• Therefore, the correct answer is B. LC, because it is the most common connector for SFP transceivers that operate on fiber-optic cables, which is the case in the question.

References:

• 1: Small Form-factor Pluggable - Wikipedia
• 4: Cisco SFP Modules for Gigabit Ethernet Applications Data Sheet
• 2: SFP & QSFP Transceivers Explained - Cable Intelligence
• 3: SFP Connector Types & Wiki - QSFPTEK

Port security is a feature that allows network administrators to limit the number of devices that can connect to a switch port, based on the MAC address of the device. This can prevent unauthorized physical connectivity by blocking any device that is not on the allowed list or exceeding the maximum number of devices per port. Port security can also trigger an action, such as shutting down the port or sending an alert, when a violation occurs. References: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide - O’Reilly Media, Chapter 14: Securing a Basic Network, page 512

In this case, the most likely cause of the constant disconnections when moving from one location to another is likely due to a problem with the roaming functionality of the wireless network. The setting that would likely provide better network stability in this situation is the RSSI roaming threshold, which determines the signal strength required for a client device to remain connected to the wireless network. If the roaming threshold is set too low, the client device may disconnect and reconnect to the network too frequently as it moves between different access points. On the other hand, if the threshold is set too high, the client device may not roam to a new access point when necessary, leading to a loss of connectivity. Adjusting the RSSI roaming threshold to an appropriate value may help to improve the stability of the wireless network in this situation.

Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) uses bandwidth and delay as its primary metrics to determine the best path for routing traffic. EIGRP is an advanced distance-vector routing protocol, which is proprietary to Cisco systems, making it highly efficient in a variety of network designs. It can also utilize load, reliability, and maximum transmission unit (MTU) as additional metrics, but bandwidth and delay are the primary considerations in its composite metric calculation. Other protocols listed, such as RIP, OSPF, and BGP, use different metrics like hop count (RIP) and cost based on link state (OSPF), or make decisions based on path attributes and policy (BGP)​​.

• The question asks about the best wireless standard for a WLAN project that involves MU-MIMO and dual-band frequencies.
• The answer is not A, because 802.11ac is a wireless standard that supports MU-MIMO, but only operates on the 5GHz frequency band, which does not meet the project requirement of compatibility with 2.4GHz clients.
• The answer is not C, because 802.11g is a wireless standard that operates on the 2.4GHz frequency band, but does not support MU-MIMO, which is a key feature for improving connection performance in high-density areas.
• The answer is not D, because 802.11n is a wireless standard that operates on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, but only supports SU-MIMO (Single-User Multiple-Input Multiple-Output), which is less efficient and scalable than MU-MIMO for multiple concurrent connections.
• The answer is B, because 802.11ax is a wireless standard that supports MU-MIMO and operates on both 2.4GHz and 5GHz frequency bands, which meets the project requirements of compatibility and performance. 802.11ax is also known as Wi-Fi 6, and it offers higher data rates, lower latency, and better energy efficiency than previous wireless standards.

References:

• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Components, Section 3.1: Network Devices, p. 121
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Components, Section 3.2: Wireless Technologies, p. 134
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Components, Section 3.2: Wireless Technologies, p. 136
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Components, Section 3.2: Wireless Technologies, p. 139

The type of network being described here is a WAN (Wide Area Network). BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) is commonly used for routing between different autonomous systems (ASes) over large geographical distances, such as connecting branch offices across states or countries.

• WAN (Wide Area Network): A WAN spans a large geographic area and connects multiple LANs (Local Area Networks) or other networks. It allows communication between distant locations, such as connecting branch offices, data centers, or remote sites. BGP is often used in WANs to exchange routing information between different ASes.
• BGP (Border Gateway Protocol): BGP is an exterior gateway protocol used for routing between autonomous systems (ASes). It enables routers in different ASes to exchange information about network reachability and select optimal paths for data transmission.

A switch is a device that provides Layer 2 connectivity to various endpoints by forwarding frames based on MAC addresses. A switch can also connect to several WAPs (wireless access points) to provide wireless connectivity to wireless devices.

• Seamless roaming is the ability of a wireless device to move from one access point (AP) to another without losing connectivity or experiencing delays1.
• When multiple SSIDs are deployed in a wireless network, each SSID acts as a separate network with its own security settings, encryption methods, and authentication protocols2.
• This means that a wireless device has to disconnect from one SSID and reconnect to another SSID when moving between different APs, which can cause interruptions and performance issues2.
• By consolidating multiple SSIDs into one unique SSID, the technician can simplify the network management and improve the user experience2.
• The wireless device can then associate with any AP that broadcasts the same SSID, and switch between them without re-authenticating or re-negotiating the security parameters2.
• This enables seamless roaming and reduces the overhead and complexity of the wireless network2. References:
• 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Cram, 6th Edition, Chapter 6: Wireless Network Technologies, p. 212
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 9: Wireless Network Design and Troubleshooting, pp. 367-368

SaaS stands for Software as a Service and is a cloud computing model where software applications are hosted and delivered over the internet by a service provider. SaaS can help the company cut the overall cost of its IT budget by eliminating the need to purchase, install, update, and maintain various computer programs on its own devices. The company can access the programs on an as-needed basis and pay only for what it uses. Multitenancy is a feature of cloud computing where multiple customers share the same physical or virtual resources. IaaS stands for Infrastructure as a Service and is a cloud computing model where computing resources such as servers, storage, and networking are provided over the internet by a service provider. VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection over a public network.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 7.0 (N10-007), Objective 1.9: Compare and contrast common network service types.

• A power outage is a loss of electrical power to a network device or system, which can cause data loss, downtime, or damage12.
• A network administrator should implement power protection measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of power outages on the network12.
• One of the power protection measures is an uninterruptible power supply (UPS), which is a device that provides backup power to a network device or system in case of a power outage12.
• A UPS works by using a battery or other energy source to supply power to the connected device or system when the main power source fails or drops below a certain level12.
• A UPS can also provide power conditioning, which is the process of filtering and regulating the quality of the power supply to prevent fluctuations, spikes, or surges that can damage or disrupt the network device or system12.
• A UPS is the BEST solution to prevent the servers from going down in this scenario, because it can provide continuous and stable power to the servers during the power outage, allowing them to operate normally or shut down gracefully12.
• The other options are not the best solution to prevent the servers from going down, because they have different limitations or disadvantages:

References:

• 1: Power Protection - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 5.5
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Full Course for Beginners - Power Protection (5.5)

One of the most common causes of fiber connectivity issues is the reversal of the fibers. This means that the transmit (TX) and receive (RX) ports on one end of the fiber link are not matched with the corresponding ports on the other end. For example, if the TX port on one device is connected to the TX port on another device, and the same for the RX ports, then the devices will not be able to communicate with each other. This can result in no indicator light, no link, or no data transmission12.

To troubleshoot this issue, the technician should first try to reverse the fibers. This can be done by swapping the connectors at one end of the fiber patch cable, or by using a crossover adapter or cable that reverses the polarity of the fibers. The technician should then check if the indicator light comes on and if the devices can communicate properly12.

The other options are not the first steps to troubleshoot this issue. Reterminating the fibers is a time-consuming and costly process that should be done only if there is evidence of physical damage or poor quality of the termination. Verifying the fiber size is not relevant in this scenario, as multimode fiber is compatible with multimode fiber, and any mismatch in core diameter or bandwidth would result in high attenuation, not complete loss of signal. Examining the cable runs for visual faults is a useful technique, but it requires a special tool called a visual fault locator (VFL) that emits a visible red light through the fiber and shows any breaks or bends along the cable. However, a VFL cannot detect polarity issues or connector problems, so it is not sufficient to troubleshoot this issue

The correct answer is 1000BASE-T. This standard is part of the Ethernet technologies and uses four pairs of Category 5 or higher copper cables. It's designed to support networks at Gigabit Ethernet speeds up to 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) over distances up to 100 meters. Unlike the other options listed, which pertain to fiber optic cable standards (1000BASE-FX, 1000BASE-LR, and 1000BASE-SX), 1000BASE-T is the only one utilizing copper wiring, making it the suitable choice for this question​​.

The term "CVE" stands for Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures. It is a reference method used for publicly known security vulnerabilities. When a vendor issues a security advisory about vulnerabilities in their products, they often include CVE identifiers. These advisories help users understand the specific issues and apply necessary resolutions or patches. Unlike the other options, CVE specifically relates to the identification and cataloging of known vulnerabilities, making it the correct choice in the context of a vendor sending out a security advisory listing issues and their resolutions​​.

SNMPv3 is a protocol that allows network administrators to monitor and manage network devices such as routers, switches, servers, printers, and more. SNMPv3 provides authentication and encryption features that ensure the security and integrity of the data exchanged between the management station and the network devices. SNMPv3 uses a user-based security model (USM) that supports three levels of security: noAuthNoPriv, authNoPriv, and authPriv. The noAuthNoPriv level provides no authentication or encryption, the authNoPriv level provides authentication but no encryption, and the authPriv level provides both authentication and encryption12.

References

• SNMP is one of the common network monitoring protocols covered in Objective 3.1 of the CompTIA Network+ N10-008 certification exam3.
• SNMPv3 provides authentication and encryption features for network monitoring12.
• SNMPv3 uses a user-based security model with three levels of security12.

1: SNMP - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 3.1 - Professor Messer IT Certification Training Courses 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, Chapter 13, page 413 3: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 7

 A split tunnel VPN solution would allow secure, remote access for sales staff to the CRM application without impacting videoconferencing traffic. A VPN stands for virtual private network, which is a secure connection between two or more devices over a public network, such as the internet. A VPN encrypts and authenticates the data, ensuring its confidentiality and integrity. A split tunnel VPN is a type of VPN that allows some traffic to go through the VPN tunnel, while other traffic goes directly to the internet. This can improve performance and bandwidth utilization by reducing unnecessary encryption and routing overhead. By using a split tunnel VPN, sales staff can access the CRM application that connects to a database server in the corporate data center through the VPN tunnel, while using online videoconferencing services through their local internet connection. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], What Is Split Tunneling? | NordVPN

Confidentiality is the property of preventing unauthorized access or disclosure of data. Encryption is a method of transforming data into an unreadable format that can only be decrypted by authorized parties who have the correct key. Encryption can increase the confidentiality of data communication across the network by making it harder for attackers to intercept or eavesdrop on the data. References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 4.1: Summarize the purposes of physical security devices. Subobjective: Encryption.

Multicast is the network communication method to use when audio transmissions need to reach several specific devices simultaneously over an IP network. It allows for efficient network use by directing a single stream of data to multiple recipients without needing to send separate streams to each recipient. Unicast sends data to a single destination, anycast sends data to the nearest or best destination in a group, and broadcast sends data to all devices in the network segment. Thus, multicast is most appropriate for the requirement described​​.

TXT stands for Text and is a type of DNS record that can store arbitrary text data associated with a domain name. TXT records can be used for various purposes, such as verifying the ownership of a domain, providing information about a domain, or implementing security mechanisms such as SPF (Sender Policy Framework) or DKIM (DomainKeys Identified Mail). In this scenario, the security company most likely asked the company to configure a TXT record with a specific value that can prove the ownership of the domain. AAAA stands for IPv6 Address and is a type of DNS record that maps a domain name to an IPv6 address. CNAME stands for Canonical Name and is a type of DNS record that maps an alias name to another name. SRV stands for Service and is a type of DNS record that specifies the location of a service on a network.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 7.0 (N10-007), Objective 1.8: Explain the purposes and use cases for advanced networking devices.

A splitter is a device that divides a coaxial cable into two or more branches, allowing multiple devices to share the same cable connection. However, a splitter also reduces the signal strength and quality of the cable, which can affect the performance and reliability of the devices connected to it. A signal power of -97dB is very low and indicates a weak or poor cable signal, which can cause constant disconnections and slow speeds.

The support agent should recommend removing any splitters connected to the line and connecting the coaxial modem directly to the cable outlet. This can help to improve the signal power and quality of the cable, and thus enhance the performance and reliability of the wired devices. Alternatively, the support agent can also suggest using a signal amplifier or booster, which is a device that increases the signal strength and quality of the cable, to compensate for the signal loss caused by the splitter.

The other options are not correct because they are not the best recommendations to troubleshoot the issue. They are:

• Switching the devices to wireless. Switching the devices to wireless may not solve the issue, as the wireless connection may also depend on the cable signal and quality. Moreover, switching the devices to wireless may introduce other problems, such as interference, security, or compatibility issues, that can affect the performance and reliability of the devices.
• Moving the devices closer to the modem. Moving the devices closer to the modem may not solve the issue, as the problem is not related to the distance between the devices and the modem, but to the signal power and quality of the cable. Moreover, moving the devices closer to the modem may not be feasible or convenient for the user, depending on the layout and setup of the location.
• Lowering the network speed. Lowering the network speed may not solve the issue, as the problem is not related to the bandwidth or capacity of the network, but to the signal power and quality of the cable. Moreover, lowering the network speed may degrade the user experience and satisfaction, as the user may not be able to access or use the network services or applications as expected.

References1: Network+ (Plus) Certification | CompTIA IT Certifications2: What is a Coaxial Splitter? - Definition from Techopedia3: What is a Signal Amplifier? - Definition from Techopedia

• The question describes a scenario where a network event is causing all communication to stop, and the network administrator can only access the switch using the serial console port, not SSH.
• This suggests that the problem is related to the network layer or below, as SSH operates at the application layer and requires network connectivity to function.
• The port statistics show a huge discrepancy between the total receive and transmit rates, as well as the unicast and broadcast/multicast packets per second. This indicates that there is a lot of traffic being generated and forwarded within the network, but not reaching the intended destinations.
• The most likely cause of this excessive traffic is a switch loop, which occurs when there are multiple paths between switches that create a circular flow of data. Switch loops can cause broadcast storms, MAC address table instability, and network congestion, leading to network outages.
• To verify this, the network administrator should use a tool such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), which is designed to prevent and detect switch loops by blocking redundant links and electing a root bridge. STP can also provide information about the topology and status of the network, such as the root port, designated port, and blocked port for each switch. References:
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2, Section 2.3, Switching Technologies, page 741
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 2.3, Switching Technologies, page 132
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Training Course, Video 2.3 - Switching Technologies, 12:00 - 14:003

To achieve a Cat 6a certification for a company’s data cabling, the patch panel needs to be tested along with the cable and the connectors. A patch panel is a device that provides a convenient and flexible way to connect and route circuits for data transmission. It has multiple ports that can be wired to different devices or networks. A patch panel can also support different types of cables and connectors, such as RJ45, LC, or F-type.

A Cat 6a certification means that the cabling system meets the performance requirements of the ANSI/TIA-568.2-D standard for Category 6a, which specifies a bandwidth of up to 500 MHz and a maximum length of 100 meters for twisted-pair copper cables. To achieve this certification, the cabling system must pass a series of tests that measure parameters such as insertion loss, near-end crosstalk (NEXT), return loss, alien crosstalk (AXT), and propagation delay. These tests can be performed using a cable tester or a network analyzer.

The patch panel is an important component of the cabling system because it affects the signal quality and the reliability of the connections. If the patch panel is not properly wired, terminated, or labeled, it can cause errors, interference, or failures in the data transmission. Therefore, the patch panel must be tested along with the cable and the connectors to ensure that the cabling system meets the Cat 6a certification standards.

The other options are not relevant for the Cat 6a certification. RJ11 is a type of connector that is used for telephone lines, not data cabling. LC ports are used for fiber optic cables, not copper cables. F-type connectors are used for coaxial cables, not twisted-pair cables.

References:

https://community.fs.com/article/what-is-a-patch-panel-and-why-use-it.html

https://www.etechnophiles.com/what-is-rj11-pinout-uses/

https://www.fiber-optic-solutions.com/lc-fiber-connector-definition.html

The RFC1918 IP space is a set of private IP addresses that are not routable on the public Internet and can be used for internal networks. The RFC1918 IP space consists of three ranges: 10.0.0.0/8, 172.16.0.0/12, and 192.168.0.0/161 Out of the four options, only A. 10.10.10.0/24 belongs to one of these ranges, specifically the 10.0.0.0/8 range. Therefore, the technician should use this subnet for the LAN.

References1: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Private_network

• NTP stands for Network Time Protocol, and it is a standard protocol for synchronizing the clocks of network devices over the internet12. NTP uses a hierarchical system of time servers, where each server obtains the time from a higher-level server or a reference clock, and provides the time to lower-level servers or clients12.
• NTP settings on a network device determine how the device obtains and maintains the accurate time from an NTP server, such as the server address, the polling interval, the authentication method, and the time zone34. If the NTP settings are incorrect or outdated, the device may have a wrong or inconsistent time stamp on its log messages34.
• To ensure the log message time stamps are correct, the network administrator should change the NTP settings on the network device to match the correct NTP server, time zone, and other parameters34. This will allow the device to synchronize its clock with the NTP server and generate accurate time stamps on its log messages34.
• The other options are not relevant or effective for resolving the issue. Changing the time on the syslog server will not affect the time stamps generated by the network device5. Updating the network device firmware may not address the NTP settings or the time stamp format6. Adjusting the timeout settings on the syslog server will not change the time stamps received from the network device7. Adjusting the SSH settings on the network device will not impact the NTP settings or the log messages8. References:
• 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Protocols and Services, Section 2.3: NTP
• 2: Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Page 9: NTP
• 3: Cisco IOS Configuration Fundamentals Command Reference, Release 12.2, Chapter: NTP Commands
• 4: Juniper Networks, Configuring NTP
• 5: Syslog and timestamps - Splunk Documentation7
• 6: Cisco, How to Upgrade the Firmware on a Cisco Device
• 7: Syslog Message from different Time Zone, Timestamp Syslog-ng - Splunk Community6
• 8: Cisco IOS Security Command Reference: Commands S to Z, Release 12.4T, Chapter: SSH Commands
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide2
• : Professor Messer’s CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Training Course5
• : NTP Commands
• : Configuring NTP
• : How to Upgrade the Firmware on a Cisco Device
• : SSH Commands

The ARP table is a database that is used by a device to map MAC addresses to their corresponding IP addresses. When a device sends a packet to another device on the same network, it uses the MAC address of the destination device to deliver the packet. The ARP table allows the device to determine the IP address of the destination device based on its MAC address.

• An access control list (ACL) is a set of rules that defines which traffic is allowed or denied on a network device, such as a router or a firewall12.
• An ACL can be used to filter traffic based on various criteria, such as source or destination IP address, port number, protocol, or time of day12.
• By implementing an ACL on the edge router of the network, the network administrator can block the unauthorized IP address from entering the secure part of the network every night at 8:00 pm12.
• This solution would address the concerns of the network administrator, as it would prevent the unauthorized IP address from accessing the critical server or any other resource on the secure network12.
• Changing the VLAN of the web server (A) or changing the server’s IP address (B) would not stop the unauthorized IP address from entering the network, as it could still scan the network for other open ports or vulnerabilities12.
• Instating a rule on the firewall connected to the web server (D) would only protect the web server, but not the rest of the secure network, from the unauthorized IP address12. References:
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, Chapter 4: Network Operations, Section 4.3: Network Security Devices and Technologies, pp. 212-213.
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course, Section 4.3: Network Security Devices and Technologies, Video: Access Control Lists.

API stands for Application Programming Interface, which is a set of rules and protocols that allow different software applications to communicate and exchange data. Network automation can use APIs to perform various automated tasks, such as configuring devices, provisioning resources, monitoring performance, and optimizing networks. APIs can enable network automation to interact with different network elements, platforms, and services, regardless of their vendor, technology, or architecture.

The other options are not correct because:

• SSH stands for Secure Shell, which is a protocol that allows secure remote access to a network device. SSH can be used to manually configure and manage a network device, but it does not automate network tasks by itself.
• CLI stands for Command-Line Interface, which is a text-based interface that allows users to interact with a network device by typing commands. CLI can be used to manually configure and manage a network device, but it does not automate network tasks by itself.
• GUI stands for Graphical User Interface, which is a visual interface that allows users to interact with a network device by using icons, menus, and windows. GUI can be used to manually configure and manage a network device, but it does not automate network tasks by itself.

The disadvantages of RIP (Routing Information Protocol) include the following.

---Outdated, insecure, and slow. This is your parents' protocol. It was a thing before the Web was born.

---The more well-known problem of the 15 hop limitation in which data must travel

---Convergence time is terrible for information propagation in a network

---Metrics. It determines the number of hops from source to destination, and gives no regard to other factors when determining the best path for data to travel

---Overhead. A good example would be routing tables. These are broadcast at half-minute intervals to other routers regardless of whether the data has changed or not. It's essentially like those old cartoons where the town guard in the walled city cries out, '10 o' the clock and all is well!'.

RIPv2 introduced more security and reduced broadcast traffic, which is relevant for some available answers here.

Duplex settings determine how data is transmitted and received over a network. If the devices have inconsistent duplex settings, such as half-duplex and full-duplex, they may experience performance issues, collisions, and errors. To troubleshoot the issue, the technicians should check the devices’ duplex settings and make sure they match the network’s configuration.

References:

• Gigabit Ethernet does not work - Microsoft Community1
• Network Tests: Are We Getting Gigabit Performance? - Tom’s Hardware2
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Objectives

https://www.comptia.org/certifications/network#examdetails

• The question asks about the most detailed source of data for investigating a network attack that wiped the configuration and logs of the border firewall.
• The answer is not B, because the MIB (Management Information Base) of the attacked firewall is a database of network objects that can be monitored by a network management system, but it does not store historical data or logs of the firewall activity or configuration.
• The answer is not C, because network baseline reports are snapshots of the normal performance and behavior of the network, but they do not provide specific details or evidence of the network attack or the firewall compromise.
• The answer is not D, because NetFlow aggregate data is a collection of statistics about the network traffic flows, but it does not include the payload or content of the packets, which could be useful for identifying the attack vector or the malicious code.
• The answer is A, because syslog server messages are records of the events and messages generated by the network devices, including the firewall. They can provide detailed information about the firewall configuration, status, errors, warnings, and alerts, as well as the source and destination of the network traffic. Syslog server messages can help to reconstruct the timeline and sequence of the network attack and the firewall compromise.

References:

• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Management, Section 5.1: Network Monitoring, p. 271
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Management, Section 5.2: Network Performance Optimization, p. 282
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Management, Section 5.1: Network Monitoring, p. 274
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 6: Network Security, Section 6.4: Network Security Monitoring and Analysis, p. 353

A physical diagram is a type of diagram that shows the physical layout and connections of the network devices and components, such as routers, switches, cables, and connectors. A physical diagram may include specifications about the fiber connector types, such as LC, SC, FC, ST, MPO, etc., that are used to link the fiber optic cables and devices. A physical diagram can help to visualize the network topology, troubleshoot network problems, and plan network changes

• IGMP snooping is a feature that allows switches to monitor the IGMP (Internet Group Management Protocol) messages between hosts and multicast routers, and to learn which ports are interested in receiving which multicast groups.
• IGMP snooping can improve the network performance by reducing the unnecessary flooding of multicast traffic to all ports, and by forwarding it only to the ports that have requested it.
• IGMP snooping can also conserve bandwidth and CPU resources on the network devices and hosts, as they do not have to process unwanted multicast packets.
• IGMP snooping can be especially useful for streaming video applications, as they often use multicast to deliver the same content to multiple devices simultaneously.
• The other options are not relevant to addressing the issue of network performance degradation due to streaming video:
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Protocols and Services, Section 3.2: Configure and Support IPv4 and IPv6, p. 179-180
• Professor Messer’s Network+ N10-008 Course Notes, Section 3.2: IPv4 and IPv6 Multicast, p. 37
• Professor Messer’s Network+ N10-008 Video Training Course, 3.2 IPv4 and IPv6 Multicast

• SSO stands for Single Sign-On, which is a technology that allows users to log in once and access multiple applications without entering their credentials again1.
• SSO simplifies the user experience and enhances security by reducing password fatigue and enforcing password policies1.
• SSO is an example of an identity and access management (IAM) solution that integrates with different authentication methods and protocols2.
• LDAP, EAP, and TACACS+ are not correct answers because they are not authentication methods that allow access to multiple applications after logging on. They are protocols that facilitate authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) functions3.
• LDAP stands for Lightweight Directory Access Protocol, which is a protocol that provides access to directory services that store information about users, groups, and devices3.
• EAP stands for Extensible Authentication Protocol, which is a framework that supports various authentication methods, such as passwords, certificates, tokens, and biometrics3.
• TACACS+ stands for Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus, which is a protocol that provides centralized AAA services for network devices and users3.

References:

• What is SSO? | How single sign-on works
• Single Sign-On - CompTIA Network+ Certification (N10-008): The Total Course
• Network+ (Plus) Certification | CompTIA IT Certifications

• A proxy server is an intermediary server that acts as a gateway between the internet and the users. It has its own IP address, so the internet activities appear to be coming from the proxy server instead of the users’ devices1.
• A proxy server can provide several benefits, such as caching web pages, filtering content, bypassing geo-restrictions, and enhancing privacy and security1.
• A proxy server can be configured to allow or deny access to certain websites or protocols based on the corporate network policy1.
• A VPN client is a software application that creates an encrypted tunnel between the user’s device and a VPN server. A VPN client can also change the user’s IP address, but it does so for the entire operating system, not just for specific applications2.
• A VPN client can provide more security and privacy than a proxy server, but it also requires more resources and may slow down the internet connection2.
• A VPN client is usually used to access remote networks or bypass censorship, not to comply with corporate network policy2.
• A bridge is a network device that connects two or more network segments and forwards data frames based on their MAC addresses3.
• A bridge can increase the performance and security of a network by reducing collisions and filtering traffic3.
• A bridge does not change the IP address of the users or the network segments, nor does it provide any gateway function to the internet3.
• A bridge is usually used to extend or segment a local area network (LAN), not to connect to the internet3.
• A VLAN is a logical grouping of network devices that share the same broadcast domain, regardless of their physical location or connection.
• A VLAN can improve the performance, security, and management of a network by reducing broadcast traffic, isolating network segments, and enforcing access control policies.
• A VLAN does not change the IP address of the users or the network devices, nor does it provide any gateway function to the internet.
• A VLAN is usually used to create subnetworks within a LAN, not to connect to the internet.

References:

• Proxy vs. VPN: What Is the Difference? | Fortinet
• What’s the difference between a proxy server and a VPN? | Windows Central
• Bridge (networking) - Wikipedia
• [VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) - Definition from Techopedia]

• A network technician is planning a network scope means that the technician is defining the range of IP addresses that can be assigned to the devices on the network.
• The web server needs to be within 12.31 69.1 to 12.31.69.29 means that the web server must have an IP address that falls within this range, which is a subset of the network scope.
• A range reservation is a feature of DHCP that allows the technician to reserve a specific range of IP addresses for a certain type of device, such as a web server, and prevent other devices from using those addresses. This ensures that the web server will always have an IP address within the desired range and avoid IP conflicts with other devices.
• A range reservation would meet this requirement, as the technician can configure the DHCP server to reserve the range of 12.31 69.1 to 12.31.69.29 for the web server and assign it an IP address from that range.
• The other options are not correct because:

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Implementations, Section 2.3: DHCP1
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Page 15: DHCP2
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Training Course, Video 2.3: DHCP3

 Documenting the lessons learned is the best method for passing along the exact steps other technicians should follow in case the issue arises again. Lessons learned are the knowledge and experience gained from completing a project or solving a problem. Documenting the lessons learned helps to capture the best practices, challenges, solutions, and recommendations for future reference and improvement. Documenting the lessons learned can also help to update the knowledge base, standard operating procedures, or policies related to the issue. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], Lessons Learned: Definition & Examples for Project Managers

A site-to-site VPN is a method that creates a secure and encrypted connection between two internet gateways, such as routers or firewalls, that belong to different networks1. A site-to-site VPN can secure all traffic between a branch office and its data center by creating a virtual tunnel that protects the data from interception or tampering. A site-to-site VPN can also provide a zero-touch experience for all staff members who work there, as they do not need to install any software or configure any settings on their devices to access the data center resources. They can simply use their local network as if they were physically connected to the data center network.

VNC (Virtual Network Computing) is a method that allows remote access and control of a computer’s desktop from another device over a network2. VNC can enable staff members to work remotely by accessing their office computers from their home computers or mobile devices. However, VNC does not secure all traffic between a branch office and its data center, as it only works at the application layer and does not encrypt the network layer. VNC also does not provide a zero-touch experience for staff members, as they need to install software and configure settings on both the host and the client devices.

Remote desktop gateway is a method that allows remote access and control of a computer’s desktop from another device over a network using the Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP). Remote desktop gateway can also enable staff members to work remotely by accessing their office computers from their home computers or mobile devices. However, remote desktop gateway does not secure all traffic between a branch office and its data center, as it only works at the application layer and does not encrypt the network layer. Remote desktop gateway also does not provide a zero-touch experience for staff members, as they need to install software and configure settings on both the host and the client devices.

Virtual LANs (VLANs) are methods that create logical subdivisions of a physical network based on criteria such as function, department, or security level. VLANs can improve network performance, security, and management by reducing broadcast domains, isolating traffic, and enforcing policies. However, VLANs do not secure all traffic between a branch office and its data center, as they only work at the data link layer and do not encrypt the network layer. VLANs also do not provide a zero-touch experience for staff members, as they need to configure settings on their network devices to join or leave a VLAN.

Channel overlap is a situation where multiple wireless networks use the same or adjacent frequency channels, causing interference and degradation of performance. According to the image, the corporate SSID is using channels 9, 10, 11, and 6, which are overlapping with each other and with other networks in the area. This can reduce the signal quality and strength, increase the noise and latency, and cause dropouts and connectivity issues. To avoid channel overlap, it is recommended to use non-overlapping channels, such as 1, 6, and 11, in the 2.4 GHz band, or to switch to the 5 GHz band if possible12.

References

1 - What happens when wifi channels overlap? - Server Fault

2 - Is it better to use a crowded 2.4GHz Wi-Fi channel 1, 6, 11 or “unused” 3, 4, 8, or 9? - Super User

• A company joins a bank’s financial network and establishes a connection to the clearinghouse servers in the range 192 168.124.0/27 means that the company is using a private IP address range that is allocated to the bank’s servers, which are located on a different network.
• An IT technician then realizes the range exists within the VM pool at the data center means that the technician discovers that the same private IP address range is also used by the virtual machines (VMs) at the company’s data center, which are located on the same network as the company.
• This creates a problem, as the company cannot communicate with the bank’s servers using the private IP addresses, since they are already in use by the VMs. The company needs a way to translate the private IP addresses to public IP addresses, so that the packets can be routed across the internet to the bank’s network, and vice versa.
• NAT, or Network Address Translation, is a feature of a router that allows the router to modify the source and destination IP addresses of the packets that pass through it, according to a predefined mapping table. NAT can be used to translate private IP addresses to public IP addresses, and vice versa, to enable communication between networks that use different IP address ranges.
• NAT would be the BEST way for the technician to connect to the bank’s servers, as the technician can configure the router to map the private IP addresses of the company to a set of public IP addresses that are unique and routable on the internet, and map the public IP addresses of the bank to a set of private IP addresses that are not in use by the VMs. This way, the company can send and receive packets to and from the bank’s servers, without any IP address conflicts or overlaps.
• The other options are not correct because:

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Operations, Section 3.2: Network Address Translation1
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Page 19: Network Address Translation2
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Training Course, Video 3.2: Network Address Translation3

• A network administrator would like to purchase a device that provides access ports to endpoints and has the ability to route between networks. This means that the device should be able to operate at both the data link layer (layer 2) and the network layer (layer 3) of the OSI model.
• An IPS (intrusion prevention system) is a security device that monitors network traffic and blocks or modifies malicious packets. It operates at the application layer (layer 7) of the OSI model and does not provide access ports or routing functions1.
• A Layer 3 switch is a device that combines the features of a switch and a router. It can forward frames based on MAC addresses at layer 2 and route packets based on IP addresses at layer 3. It also provides access ports to connect endpoints such as computers, printers, and servers. A Layer 3 switch is faster and more efficient than a router because it makes forwarding decisions in hardware using ASICs (application-specific integrated circuits)23.
• A router is a device that connects different networks and routes packets based on IP addresses at layer 3. It does not provide access ports to endpoints, but rather interfaces to other networks. A router makes forwarding decisions in software, which is slower and less scalable than a Layer 3 switch23.
• A wireless LAN controller is a device that manages and configures wireless access points (WAPs) in a wireless network. It operates at the data link layer (layer 2) and does not provide routing functions. It also does not provide access ports to endpoints, but rather wireless connections4.
• Therefore, the best device for the network administrator to purchase is B. A Layer 3 switch, as it provides access ports to endpoints and has the ability to route between networks.

References:

• Intrusion Prevention Systems – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.5
• Interface Configurations – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.3
• Quiz: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Post-Assessment Quiz
• Wireless LAN Controllers – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.4

A straight-through cable is a type of twisted pair cable that has the same wiring standard (TIA/EIA 568A or 568B) on both ends. This is the most common type of cable used for connecting devices of different types, such as a computer and a switch. A cable that has different wiring standards on each end (TIA/EIA 568A on one end and 568B on the other) is called a crossover cable, which is used for connecting devices of the same type, such as two computers or two switches. Therefore, the technician should crimp the cable as a straight-through cable to fix the issue.

To achieve a Cat 6a certification for a company’s data cabling, the patch panel needs to be tested along with the cable and the connectors. A patch panel is a device that provides a convenient and flexible way to connect and route circuits for data transmission. It has multiple ports that can be wired to different devices or networks. A patch panel can also support different types of cables and connectors, such as RJ45, LC, or F-type.

A Cat 6a certification means that the cabling system meets the performance requirements of the ANSI/TIA-568.2-D standard for Category 6a, which specifies a bandwidth of up to 500 MHz and a maximum length of 100 meters for twisted-pair copper cables. To achieve this certification, the cabling system must pass a series of tests that measure parameters such as insertion loss, near-end crosstalk (NEXT), return loss, alien crosstalk (AXT), and propagation delay. These tests can be performed using a cable tester or a network analyzer.

The patch panel is an important component of the cabling system because it affects the signal quality and the reliability of the connections. If the patch panel is not properly wired, terminated, or labeled, it can cause errors, interference, or failures in the data transmission. Therefore, the patch panel must be tested along with the cable and the connectors to ensure that the cabling system meets the Cat 6a certification standards.

The other options are not relevant for the Cat 6a certification. RJ11 is a type of connector that is used for telephone lines, not data cabling. LC ports are used for fiber optic cables, not copper cables. F-type connectors are used for coaxial cables, not twisted-pair cables.

References:

https://community.fs.com/article/what-is-a-patch-panel-and-why-use-it.html

https://www.etechnophiles.com/what-is-rj11-pinout-uses/

https://www.fiber-optic-solutions.com/lc-fiber-connector-definition.html

According to the network troubleshooting methodology, the first step is to identify the problem and gather information about the current state of the network using the network troubleshooting tools that are available1. The next step is to determine if anything has changed in the network configuration, environment, or usage that could have caused or contributed to the performance issues1. This step helps to narrow down the possible causes and eliminate irrelevant factors. For example, the network administrator could check if there were any recent updates, patches, or modifications to the fileshare server or the network devices that connect to it. They could also check if there was an increase in network traffic or demand for the fileshare server resources2.

The other options are not correct because they are not the next steps in the network troubleshooting methodology. Implementing a fix to resolve the connectivity issues (A) is premature without determining the root cause of the problem. Establishing a theory of probable cause © is a later step that requires testing and verification. Documenting all findings, actions, and lessons learned (D) is the final step that should be done after resolving the problem and restoring normal network operations1.

The problem is likely related to DNS resolution, as the clients are able to ping the server's IP address but not access the web resource via URL. The other answers do not address this issue. Configuring A records for the web server will ensure that clients are able to access the web resource via its domain name.

A physical diagram is a type of diagram that shows the physical layout and connections of the network devices and components, such as routers, switches, cables, and connectors. A physical diagram may include specifications about the fiber connector types, such as LC, SC, FC, ST, MPO, etc., that are used to link the fiber optic cables and devices. A physical diagram can help to visualize the network topology, troubleshoot network problems, and plan network changes

The best security measure to implement when removing a computer from a cubicle is to remove the employee’s network access. This will prevent the employee from accessing any network resources or data from the computer, as well as prevent any unauthorized users from using the computer to access the network. Removing the employee’s network access can be done by deleting or disabling the user account, revoking the credentials, or changing the permissions.

The other options are not as effective or necessary as removing the employee’s network access. They are:

•Disabling DHCP on the computer being removed will prevent the computer from obtaining an IP address from the network, but it will not prevent the computer from using a static IP address or accessing the network through another device.

•Placing the switch port in a private VLAN will isolate the computer from other devices on the network, but it will not prevent the computer from accessing the network through another port or device.

•Applying a firewall rule to block the computer’s IP address will prevent the computer from communicating with the network, but it will not prevent the computer from changing its IP address or accessing the network through another device.

References

1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide - O’Reilly Media

2: Network+ (Plus) Certification | CompTIA IT Certifications

3: 10 Ways to Secure Office Workstations - Computer Security

A mesh network is the best solution for creating a wireless field network to provide reliable service to public safety vehicles. A mesh network is a type of wireless network that consists of multiple nodes that communicate with each other directly or through intermediate nodes, forming a web-like topology. A mesh network does not rely on a central access point or router, but rather on the cooperation and coordination of the nodes themselves. A mesh network has several advantages for public safety applications, such as12:

• High availability and resilience: A mesh network can automatically route around failures or congestion, ensuring that the network remains operational even if some nodes are damaged or disconnected. A mesh network can also self-heal and self-configure, adapting to changes in the network topology or environment.
• Extended coverage and scalability: A mesh network can extend the wireless signal beyond the range of a single node, by using other nodes as relays or repeaters. A mesh network can also accommodate more nodes and devices, by adding more links and paths between them.
• Low cost and easy deployment: A mesh network can reduce the cost and complexity of installing and maintaining a wireless infrastructure, by eliminating the need for expensive cabling, towers, or antennas. A mesh network can also be deployed quickly and flexibly, by simply adding or removing nodes as needed.

A mesh network is especially suitable for public safety vehicles, because it can provide reliable wireless communication in challenging scenarios, such as12:

• Disaster response: A mesh network can be deployed rapidly in areas where the existing wireless infrastructure is damaged or unavailable, such as after an earthquake, flood, or fire. A mesh network can also support emergency services, such as fire fighting, search and rescue, or medical assistance, by enabling data, voice, and video transmission among the responders and command centers.
• Mobile surveillance: A mesh network can enable real-time monitoring and control of public safety vehicles, such as police cars, ambulances, or drones, by providing high-bandwidth and low-latency wireless connectivity. A mesh network can also support video streaming, location tracking, remote sensing, or analytics applications for public safety purposes.
• Event management: A mesh network can enhance the security and efficiency of large-scale events, such as concerts, festivals, or parades, by providing wireless coverage and capacity for the event organizers and participants. A mesh network can also support crowd management, traffic control, or public announcement applications for event management.

The other options are not the best solutions for creating a wireless field network to provide reliable service to public safety vehicles. An ad hoc network is a type of wireless network that consists of devices that communicate with each other directly without any central coordination or infrastructure. An ad hoc network is simple and flexible, but it has limited scalability and performance3. A point-to-point network is a type of wireless network that consists of two devices that communicate with each other over a single link. A point-to-point network is fast and secure, but it has limited coverage and functionality. An infrastructure network is a type of wireless network that consists of devices that communicate with each other through an access point or router. An infrastructure network is stable and robust, but it has high cost and complexity.

• The question asks about the configuration that can fulfill the requirement of logging and archiving all communication destined to a secure server.
• Logging and archiving are methods of capturing and storing network traffic for analysis, monitoring, auditing, or compliance purposes.
• One way to log and archive network traffic is by using port mirroring, which is a feature that allows a switch to copy the traffic from one or more source ports to a destination port, where a device such as a network analyzer, a firewall, or a storage device can capture and process the traffic.
• Port mirroring can be configured to mirror traffic based on various criteria, such as VLANs, MAC addresses, IP addresses, or protocols. Port mirroring can also be done on a remote switch, using protocols such as RSPAN (Remote Switched Port Analyzer) or ERSPAN (Encapsulated Remote Switched Port Analyzer).
• Therefore, the answer is B, port mirroring, as it can log and archive all communication destined to a secure server by mirroring the traffic from the source ports to a storage device.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Devices and Technologies, Section 2.2: Switching Technologies, Pages 86-87
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course, Video 2.2: Switching Technologies, Part 2
• Network + N10-008 practice exam, Question 961, Answer B, Explanation

Changing the default password is a hardening technique that best mitigates the use of publicly available information, such as vendor documentation, online forums, or hacking tools, that may reveal the default credentials of a commercial switch. By changing the default password to a strong and unique one, the network technician can prevent unauthorized access to the switch configuration and management.

References:

• Network Hardening - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 4.3 - YouTube1
• CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 151

The termination that the technician should use when running a cable from the ISP’s port to the front desk is B. TIA/EIA-568-B. This is a standard pin-out for Cat 6 cables that is used for Ethernet and other network physical layers1. It specifies how to arrange the eight wires in an RJ45 connector, which is a common type of connector for network cables.

• The end user can access local network shares and intranet pages, which means that the IP address and the subnet mask are configured correctly and the network interface is working properly.
• However, the end user is unable to access the internet or remote resources, which means that there is a problem with the name resolution or the routing of the traffic.
• The gateway address is responsible for routing the traffic to the destination network, which could be on the internet or another subnet. If the gateway address is incorrect, the end user would not be able to reach any network outside the local subnet.
• The DNS servers are responsible for resolving the domain names to the IP addresses, which are needed to communicate with the internet or remote resources. If the DNS servers are incorrect, the end user would not be able to resolve the names of the websites or servers they want to access.
• Therefore, the most likely cause of the connectivity issue is that the DNS servers need to be reconfigured with the correct addresses. References:
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Protocols and Services, Section 2.2: TCP/IP Suite, p. 76-77
• Network+ N10-008 Practice Test, Question 359
• CompTIA Network+ (N10-008) Performance-based Questions (PBQs), Part 1, 1:36

If an ISP is unable to provide services to a user in a remote area through cable and DSL, the next best solution to provide services without adding external infrastructure would likely be satellite. Satellite is a wireless communication technology that uses a network of satellites orbiting the Earth to transmit and receive data. It is well-suited for providing connectivity to remote or rural areas where other types of infrastructure may not be available or may be cost-prohibitive to install.

Assigning a new IP address range to the local company is the best option to quickly connect the two companies without causing any IP address conflicts or overlaps. This option requires reconfiguring the local company’s network devices and updating the routing tables on both sides, but it avoids the need for any NAT or static routing solutions that may introduce additional complexity, cost, or performance issues12

References1: Connecting Networks with Overlapping IP Ranges 2: What Is Network Address Translation (NAT)?

When running Ethernet cables through raised ceilings, plenum-rated cables are the safest option. They are designed to slow the spread of flames and reduce the amount of toxic smoke produced during a fire, making them suitable for spaces with airflow for heating and air conditioning systems. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives

An internal proxy server is a server that acts as an intermediary between internal devices and external servers on the internet. An internal proxy server can be used to limit the ability of devices to perform only HTTPS connections to an internet update server by filtering and forwarding the requests and responses based on predefined rules or policies. An internal proxy server can also prevent the devices from being exposed to the public internet by hiding their IP addresses and providing a layer of security and privacy.

The type of site that the company should implement for non-critical applications that can tolerate a short period of downtime is a warm site. A warm site is a disaster recovery site that has some pre-installed equipment and software, but not as much as a hot site, which is fully operational and ready to take over the primary site’s functions in case of a disaster. A warm site requires some time and effort to activate and synchronize with the primary site, but not as much as a cold site, which has no equipment or software installed and requires a lot of configuration and testing. A passive site is not a common term for a disaster recovery site, but it could refer to a site that only receives backups from the primary site and does not actively participate in the network operations. References: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 347; The Official CompTIA Network+ Student Guide (Exam N10-008), page 13-10.

A divide-and-conquer approach is a troubleshooting method that involves breaking a complex problem into smaller and more manageable parts, and then testing each part to isolate the cause of the problem. In this scenario, the technician is using a divide-and-conquer approach by pinging the default gateway and DNS server of the workstation, which are two possible sources of connectivity issues. By pinging these devices, the technician can determine if the problem is related to the local network or the external network.

Which of the following most likely requires the use of subinterfaces?

• A router with only one available LAN port
• A firewall performing deep packet inspection
• A hub utilizing jumbo frames
• A switch using Spanning Tree Protocol

Answer: A

Subinterfaces are logical divisions of a physical interface that allow a router to communicate with multiple networks using a single LAN port. Subinterfaces can have different IP addresses, VLANs, and routing protocols. They are useful for reducing the number of physical interfaces and cables needed, as well as improving network performance and security.

References:

• Subinterfaces - CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Domain 1.21 - YouTube1
• CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 92

Which of the following is a characteristic of the application layer?

• It relies upon other layers for packet delivery.
• It checks independently for packet loss.
• It encrypts data in transit.
• It performs address translation.

Answer: A

The application layer is the highest layer of the OSI model, and it provides the interface between the user and the network. It does not handle the details of packet delivery, such as addressing, routing, error checking, or encryption. Those functions are performed by the lower layers of the OSI model. The application layer only focuses on the format, content, and presentation of the data.

References:

• Understanding the OSI Model – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.11
• CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 92

Notifications are the lowest logging level and will provide the desired information regarding switch port up/down activity. According to the CompTIA Network+ Study Manual, notifications "are used for logging normal activities, such as port up/down events, link changes, and link flaps."

The most likely cause of the administrator’s inability to connect to the internet is the incorrect default gateway. The default gateway is the IP address of the router that connects the local network to the internet. The default gateway should be in the same subnet as the IP address of the device. However, in this case, the IP address of the device is 4.11.17.6 and the subnet mask is 255.255.255.252, which means the subnet has only four addresses: 4.11.17.4, 4.11.17.5, 4.11.17.6, and 4.11.17.7. The first and the last addresses are reserved for the network and the broadcast, respectively, so the only valid addresses for the device and the gateway are 4.11.17.5 and 4.11.17.6. Therefore, the default gateway should be 4.11.17.5, not 4.11.17.1, which is in a different subnet. The routing table, the subnet mask, and the DNS are not the causes of the problem, as they are either correct or irrelevant for the internet connectivity.

References

• 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 83-84
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Subnetting Quiz, question 8
• 3: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Practice Test, question 3

Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) is a protocol that allows for redundant routers on the network with a single IP address. VRRP works by creating a virtual router that consists of one master router and one or more backup routers. The virtual router has its own IP address and MAC address that are shared among the routers in the group. The master router responds to traffic sent to the virtual router’s IP address, while the backup routers monitor the master router’s status. If the master router fails, one of the backup routers takes over as the new master router and continues to respond to traffic. This way, VRRP provides high availability and fault tolerance for the network. References: https://www.comptia.org/training/books/network-n10-008-study-guide (page 230)

The issue is that the fiber-optic link between routers does not connect after the technicians verified the correct fibers with a light meter. There are two possible reasons for this:

• A. They used the wrong type of fiber transceiver: A fiber transceiver is a device that converts electrical signals to optical signals and vice versa. It is important to use the correct type of fiber transceiver that matches the fiber type, wavelength, and connector. For example, if the fiber is single-mode, the transceiver should also be single-mode. If the transceiver is mismatched, the link will not work.
• B. Incorrect TX/RX polarity exists on the link: TX/RX polarity refers to the alignment of the transmit (TX) and receive (RX) ports on both ends of the fiber link. The TX port on one end should connect to the RX port on the other end, and vice versa. If the polarity is reversed, the link will not work.

The other options are not likely to cause the issue:

• C. The connection has duplexing configuration issues: Duplexing refers to the ability of a link to send and receive data simultaneously (full duplex) or alternately (half duplex). Duplexing is a configuration issue for copper-based links, not fiber-optic links. Fiber-optic links are always full duplex.
• D. Halogen light fixtures are causing interference: Halogen light fixtures emit infrared light, which can interfere with some types of fiber-optic cables that use infrared light as the carrier signal. However, this is not a common problem, and it can be avoided by using shielded fiber-optic cables or different wavelengths.
• E. One of the technicians installed a loopback adapter: A loopback adapter is a device that connects the TX and RX ports of a fiber transceiver to test its functionality. It is used for troubleshooting purposes, not for establishing a link between routers. If one of the technicians installed a loopback adapter, the link would not work.
• F. The RSSI was not strong enough on the link: RSSI stands for Received Signal Strength Indicator, which measures the power of the optical signal received by a fiber transceiver. If the RSSI is too low, it means that the signal is attenuated or degraded by factors such as distance, connectors, splices, or bends. However, this is not a likely cause of the issue, because the technicians used a light meter to verify the correct fibers, which implies that the signal was strong enough.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, Chapter 4: Network Media and Topologies, page 171-174
• CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, Domain 2: Network Implementations, Objective 2.2: Given a scenario, install and configure the appropriate cabling solution, Sub-objective: Fiber
• Ace Your CompTIA Network+ Exam: Explore Top Study Resources, Section: CompTIA Network+ Certification Kit: Exam N10-008 6th Edition
• How to use fiber optical cable to connect second WiFi router, YouTube video by FS.COM
• Fiber Optic Router…What is it and why do you need one?, Article by Hitron Technologies

An AAAA record is a type of DNS record that maps a domain name to an IPv6 address. It is similar to an A record, which maps a domain name to an IPv4 address, but it uses a 128-bit address instead of a 32-bit one. An AAAA record allows a domain name to be resolved by both IPv4 and IPv6 clients, and it is necessary for accessing websites and services that use IPv6.

• A routing protocol is a set of rules that determines how routers exchange routing information and select the best paths to reach different destinations on a network12.
• There are different types of routing protocols, such as interior gateway protocols (IGPs) and exterior gateway protocols (EGPs)12.
• An internet-facing edge router is a router that connects an autonomous system to the internet and acts as a gateway for the traffic entering or leaving the AS3 .
• The most common routing protocol for an internet-facing edge router is BGP (Border Gateway Protocol), which is an EGP that enables routers to exchange routing information and reachability information for IP prefixes across the internet12 .
• BGP is designed to handle the large and complex topology of the internet, as well as the policy and security requirements of different autonomous systems12 .
• Therefore, option A is the correct answer, as BGP is the routing protocol that a technician will most likely use for an internet-facing edge router.
• The other options are incorrect, as they are IGPs that are not suitable for an internet-facing edge router.

References:

• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 4, Section 4.1, “Routing Concepts”, page 198-207.
• : Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 4.1, “Routing Concepts”, page 24-25.
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 4, Section 4.2, “Routing Protocols”, page 208-209.
• : Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 4.2, “Routing Protocols”, page 26.
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 4, Section 4.2, “Routing Protocols”, page 210-211.

Layer 2 of the OSI model, also known as the data link layer, is responsible for physical addressing and error detecting. Physical addressing refers to the use of MAC addresses to identify and locate devices on a network segment. Error detecting refers to the use of techniques such as checksums and CRCs to identify and correct errors in the data frames.

References:

• OSI Model | Computer Networking | CompTIA1

OSPF uses multicast to communicate routing updates among routers within the same area. OSPF routers send and receive link-state advertisements (LSAs) using IP multicast addresses 224.0.0.5 (all OSPF routers) and 224.0.0.6 (all OSPF designated routers) 1. Multicast allows OSPF to send routing updates efficiently and selectively, without flooding the entire network or requiring acknowledgments from every router

A wireless survey is the first step that a network administrator should do before adding access points to the network. A wireless survey is a process of collecting data about the wireless environment, such as signal strength, channel usage, interference, and coverage. A wireless survey can help the network administrator to determine the optimal locations and configurations for the access points to provide the best possible coverage and performance for the wireless network. A wireless survey can also help to identify and troubleshoot any issues that may cause improper coverage in some areas. https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless/5500-series-wireless-controllers/116057-site-survey-guidelines-wlan-00.html

SFP+ is a type of optical transceiver that supports 10G single-channel transmission over fiber optic cables. SFP+ stands for small form-factor pluggable plus, and it is compatible with SFP slots on switches and routers.

• An incorrect subnet mask can cause a host to be unable to communicate with other devices on the same network or on different networks.
• A subnet mask defines the range of IP addresses that belong to a network segment. It also determines the network ID and the host ID of an IP address.
• If a host has a subnet mask that does not match the subnet mask of the router or the file server, it will not be able to determine the correct destination for its packets.
• For example, if the router and the file server have a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, and the host has a subnet mask of 255.255.0.0, the host will think that the router and the file server are on the same network as itself, and will try to send packets directly to them without using the router as a gateway. However, the router and the file server will not recognize the host as a valid source, and will drop the packets or send back an ICMP destination unreachable message.
• To fix this issue, the host needs to have the same subnet mask as the router and the file server, or use a subnet mask that is compatible with the network topology.
• An incorrect DNS server, IP class, or TCP port would not prevent the host from pinging the router, as these are not relevant for ICMP echo requests and replies. They could affect other types of communication, such as name resolution, routing, or application layer protocols, but not the basic connectivity test of ping. References:
• Subnet Masks – CompTIA Network+ N10-008 – 1.3
• Troubleshooting IP Addressing – CompTIA Network+ N10-008 – 5.1

BGP stands for Border Gateway Protocol and it is used to exchange routing information between autonomous systems (AS) on the Internet. A perimeter router is a router that connects an AS to another AS or to the Internet. Therefore, BGP is the best suited routing protocol for a perimeter router.

References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 2.4: Compare and contrast the characteristics of network topologies, types and technologies.

• A network interface can drop packets due to various reasons, such as congestion, errors, misconfiguration, or hardware issues.
• OID duplication and MIB mismatch are not likely causes of packet drops, as they are related to SNMP management and monitoring, not to the actual data transmission.
• Encapsulation errors can cause packet drops, but they are usually detected and corrected by the lower layers of the OSI model, such as the data link layer or the physical layer. If the cable and interfaces are in working order, then encapsulation errors are unlikely.
• CPU usage, on the other hand, can directly affect the performance of a network interface, especially if it is integrated with the motherboard or the device. A high CPU usage can indicate that the device is overloaded with processing tasks, such as routing, filtering, encryption, or compression. This can result in packet drops, as the device cannot handle the incoming or outgoing traffic efficiently.
• Therefore, the most likely cause of packet drops in this scenario is CPU usage, and the technician should check the device’s CPU utilization and try to reduce it by optimizing the configuration, upgrading the hardware, or distributing the load to other devices. References:
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Troubleshooting Methodology and Tools, page 247
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 2.1: Network Interface Metrics, page 17

Traceroute is a network diagnostic tool that allows you to trace the path that network packets take from one device to another. By running traceroute to the file server, the technician can see the sequence of devices and networks that the packets pass through on their way to the file server. This can help the technician to determine if there is a problem with the network connection between the user's computer and the file server, or if the issue is with the file server itself.

The best choice for configuring link port aggregation between a Gigabit Ethernet distribution switch and a Fast Ethernet access switch is to use full duplex and 1GB speed for all interfaces that are participating in the link aggregation. This will allow for maximum throughput, as the full duplex connection will enable simultaneous sending and receiving of data, and the 1GB speed will ensure that the data is transferred quickly.

According to the CompTIA Network+ Study Guide, “Full-duplex Ethernet allows the network adapter to transmit and receive data simultaneously, which can result in double the bandwidth of half-duplex Ethernet.” Additionally, the official text states, “Ethernet and Fast Ethernet use different speeds for data transmission, with Ethernet being 1,000 megabits (1 gigabit) per second and Fast Ethernet being 100 megabits per second.”

• The command tracert (or traceroute in some operating systems) is used to trace the route that a packet takes from the source to the destination. It displays the IP addresses and hostnames of the routers and devices along the path, as well as the time it takes for each hop.
• The command can help identify the issue of extreme latency by showing where the delay occurs in the network. For example, if the latency is high between the source and the first router, it may indicate a problem with the local network or the ISP. If the latency is high between two distant routers, it may indicate a problem with the intermediate network or the website’s server.
• The command ipconfig is used to display the IP configuration of the local device, such as the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers. It does not show the route or the latency of the packets to the destination.
• The command netstat is used to display the active connections and listening ports on the local device, as well as the protocol, local address, foreign address, and state of each connection. It does not show the route or the latency of the packets to the destination.
• The command ping is used to test the connectivity and the round-trip time of the packets to the destination. It does not show the route or the latency of each hop along the path. References:
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Operations, Section 3.2: Troubleshooting Methodology and Tools, Page 147-148
• Professor Messer’s Network+ N10-008 Course Notes, Page 18
• Professor Messer’s Network+ N10-008 Video Training Course, Section 3.2: Network Troubleshooting Tools, Video 3.2.2: Command Line Tools

Tailgating is when someone follows an authorized person into a restricted area without having the proper credentials. This is usually done by pretending to be with the authorized person, or by offering assistance. Tailgating is a social engineering attack and does not require any technical skill.

The best metric for a network administrator to check is hop-by-hop network latency. This is because network latency is the time it takes for a packet to travel from the source to the destination, and it affects the loading speed of web pages. Hop-by-hop network latency measures the latency between each pair of routers or switches along the network path, and it can help identify where the delay is occurring. By checking the hop-by-hop network latency, the network administrator can determine if the problem is caused by a slow or congested link, a misconfigured or faulty device, or a routing issue.

Jitter is the variation in latency over time, and it affects the quality of voice and video applications. Jitter does not directly affect the loading speed of web pages, and it is not a useful metric for troubleshooting this issue.

Server interface CRC errors are errors that occur when the cyclic redundancy check (CRC) of a packet does not match the expected value, indicating data corruption. Server interface CRC errors can affect the reliability and integrity of data transmission, and they can be caused by faulty cables, connectors, or interfaces. Server interface CRC errors do not necessarily affect the loading speed of web pages, unless they are severe enough to cause retransmissions or packet loss.

Server NetFlow data is data that is collected and analyzed by the NetFlow protocol, which monitors and reports on network traffic flows. Server NetFlow data can provide information on the volume, type, and direction of traffic that is sent or received by the server, as well as the source and destination IP addresses, ports, and protocols. Server NetFlow data can help identify network usage patterns, trends, and anomalies, but it does not measure the latency or performance of the network.

ReferencesWhat is Network Latency and How to Measure ItHow to Troubleshoot Network Latency IssuesWhat is Jitter and How to Measure ItWhat is CRC Error and How to Fix ItWhat is NetFlow and How Does It WorkCompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Eighth Edition (Exam N10-008)

The most likely reason why only eight cameras turn on is that the PoE switch does not have enough power budget to supply all 12 cameras. The engineer should check the voltage and wattage ratings of the PoE switch and the cameras, and make sure they are compatible and sufficient. The Ethernet cable type, transceiver compatibility, and DHCP addressing are less likely to cause this problem, as they would affect the data transmission rather than the power delivery.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 181
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, Deluxe Edition, page 352
• PoE Troubleshooting: The Common PoE Errors and Solutions3

IaaS is an example of on-demand scalable hardware that is typically housed in the vendor’s data center. IaaS stands for Infrastructure as a Service, which is a cloud computing model that provides virtualized computing resources over the internet. IaaS allows customers to rent servers, storage, network devices, and other hardware components from a cloud service provider, rather than purchasing and maintaining them on-premise. IaaS offers advantages such as scalability, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and reliability. Customers can adjust their hardware resources according to their needs and pay only for what they use. Customers can also access their hardware resources from anywhere via a web browser or an API. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], What Is Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS)? | IBM

A protocol analyzer is the best way to verify traffic to and from the server. A protocol analyzer, also known as a packet sniffer or network analyzer, is a tool that captures and analyzes the network packets that are sent and received by a device. A protocol analyzer can show the source and destination IP addresses, ports, protocols, and payload of each packet, as well as any errors or anomalies in the network communication. A protocol analyzer can help troubleshoot network connectivity issues by identifying the root cause of the problem, such as misconfigured firewall rules, incorrect routing, or faulty network devices12.

To use a protocol analyzer to verify traffic to and from the server, the customer can follow these steps:

• Install a protocol analyzer tool on a device that is connected to the same network as the server, such as Wireshark3 or Microsoft Network Monitor4.
• Select the network interface that is used to communicate with the server, and start capturing the network traffic.
• Filter the captured traffic by using the IP address or hostname of the server, or by using a specific port or protocol that is used by the database service.
• Analyze the filtered traffic and look for any signs of successful or failed connection attempts, such as TCP SYN, ACK, or RST packets, or ICMP messages.
• If there are no connection attempts to or from the server, then there may be a problem with the network configuration or device settings that prevent the traffic from reaching the server.
• If there are connection attempts but they are rejected or dropped by the server, then there may be a problem with the server configuration or service settings that prevent the traffic from being accepted by the server.

The other options are not the best ways to verify traffic to and from the server. nmap is a tool that can scan a network and discover hosts and services, but it cannot capture and analyze the network packets in detail. ipconfig is a command that can display and configure the IP settings of a device, but it cannot monitor or test the network communication with another device. Speed test is a tool that can measure the bandwidth and latency of a network connection, but it cannot diagnose or troubleshoot specific network problems.

"Use private VLANs: Also known as port isolation, creating a private VLAN is a method of restricting switch ports (now called private ports) so that they can communicate only with a particular uplink. The private VLAN usually has numerous private ports and only one uplink, which is usually connected to a router, or firewall."

"Using special STP frames known as bridge protocol data units (BPDUs), switches communicate with other switches to prevent loops from happening in the first place. Configuration BPDUs establish the topology, where one switch is elected root bridge and acts as the center of the STP universe. Each switch then uses the root bridge as a reference point to maintain a loop-free topology."

A honeypot is a decoy system that is intentionally left vulnerable or exposed to attract attackers and divert them from the real targets. A honeypot can also be used to collect information about the attackers’ techniques and motives. A network administrator can implement a honeypot to analyze attacks directed toward the company’s network, as a honeypot can help identify the source, target, method, and impact of an attack, as well as provide recommendations for remediation. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-honeypot

 Jitter is most likely causing the issue of intermittent one-way audio and dropped conversations for the company that uses VoIP telephones. Jitter is a variation in delay of packets arriving at the destination. It can cause choppy or distorted audio quality for VoIP applications, especially over WAN links that have limited bandwidth and high latency. The recommended jitter for VoIP is less than 10ms1. The company has recorded ping times that exceed 50ms, which indicates high jitter and latency on their network. References: https://www.voip-info.org/voip-jitter/  1

A hot site is the disaster recovery solution that the corporation should implement for its critical system that would cause unrecoverable damage to the brand if it was taken offline. A hot site is a fully operational backup site that can take over the primary site’s functions in case of a disaster or disruption. A hot site has all the necessary hardware, software, data, network connections, and personnel to resume normal operations with minimal downtime. A hot site is suitable for systems that require high availability and cannot afford any data loss or interruption. References: https://www.enterprisestorageforum.com/management/disaster-recovery-site/  1

DNS poisoning is a type of attack that modifies the DNS records of a domain name to point to a malicious IP address instead of the legitimate one. This can result in users being directed to cloned websites that are stealing credentials, even if they enter the correct URL for the website. The incorrect DNS server address on the user’s PC could be a sign of DNS poisoning, as the attacker could have compromised the DNS server or spoofed its response to redirect the user’s queries. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-dns-poisoning

The firewall administrator is implementing a PAT (Port Address Translation) rule that directs HTTP traffic to an internal server listening on a non-standard socket. PAT is a type of NAT (Network Address Translation) that allows multiple devices to share a single public IP address by using different port numbers. PAT can also be used to redirect traffic from one port to another port on the same or different IP address. This can be useful for security or load balancing purposes. For example, a firewall administrator can configure a PAT rule that redirects HTTP traffic (port 80) from the public IP address of the firewall to an internal server that listens on a non-standard port (such as 8080) on its private IP address. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/network-address-translation-nat/13772-12.html

A vSwitch (virtual switch) is a software-based switch that provides networking capability for VMs (virtual machines) at Layer 2 of the OSI model. It connects the VMs to each other or to external networks using virtual NICs (network interface cards). A VPN (virtual private network) is a technology that creates a secure tunnel over a public network for remote access or site-to-site connectivity. VRRP (Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol) is a protocol that provides high availability for routers by creating a virtual router with multiple physical routers. A VIP (virtual IP) is an IP address that can be shared by multiple servers or devices for load balancing or failover purposes.

VPN (Virtual Private Network) is the most appropriate way to enable secure remote printing. VPN is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted tunnel over a public network such as the Internet. It allows remote users or sites to access a private network as if they were directly connected to it. VPN can be used for various purposes such as accessing corporate resources, bypassing geo-restrictions, or enhancing privacy and security. VPN can also be used for remote printing by allowing users to connect to a printer on the private network and send print jobs securely over the VPN tunnel. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/security-vpn/ipsec-negotiation-ike-protocols/14106-how-vpn-works.html

The lab environment is located in the DMZ, and traffic to the LAN zone is denied by default. This is the most likely reason why the web server cannot retrieve files from the file server, and the technician can either move the computer to another zone or request an exception from the administrator to resolve the problem. A DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) is a network segment that separates the internal network (LAN) from the external network (Internet). It usually hosts public-facing servers such as web servers, email servers, or FTP servers that need to be accessed by both internal and external users. A firewall is used to control the traffic between the DMZ and the LAN zones, and usually denies traffic from the DMZ to the LAN by default for security reasons. Therefore, if a web server in the DMZ needs to communicate with a file server in the LAN, it would need a special rule or permission from the firewall administrator. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/access-lists/13608-21.html

2.4GHz is the wireless frequency that would allow for the least signal attenuation when deploying a low-density wireless network with multiple types of building materials. Signal attenuation is the loss of signal strength or quality as it travels through a medium or over a distance. Signal attenuation can be affected by various factors such as distance, interference, reflection, refraction, diffraction, scattering, or absorption. Generally, lower frequencies have less signal attenuation than higher frequencies because they can penetrate obstacles better and travel farther. Therefore, 2.4GHz would have less signal attenuation than 5GHz, 850MHz, or 900MHz. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless-mobility/wireless-lan-wlan/82068-omni-vs-direct.html

 A UTM appliance stands for Unified Threat Management appliance, which is a device that combines multiple security functions into one solution. A UTM appliance can provide firewall, IDS/IPS, antivirus, VPN, web filtering, and other security features. A network technician can use a UTM appliance in place of an edge firewall and an IDS to prevent future attacks, as a UTM appliance can block malicious traffic and detect and respond to intrusions more effectively. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-utm

A router is a device that uses the destination IP address to forward packets between different networks. A bridge and a Layer 2 switch operate at the data link layer and use MAC addresses to forward frames within the same network. A repeater is a device that amplifies or regenerates signals at the physical layer.

The technician would most likely train the employee on using site-to-site VPNs between the two city locations and client-to-site software on the employee’s laptop for all other remote access. A VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted tunnel over a public network such as the Internet. It allows remote users or sites to access a private network as if they were directly connected to it. A site-to-site VPN connects two or more networks, such as branch offices or data centers, using a VPN gateway device at each site. A client-to-site VPN connects individual users, such as mobile workers or telecommuters, using a VPN client software on their devices. In this scenario, the employee needs to access the network from different locations, such as home, travel, or another city. Therefore, the technician would train the employee on how to use site-to-site VPNs to connect to the network from another city location that shares services, and how to use client-to-site software to connect to the network from home or travel locations. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/security-vpn/ipsec-negotiation-ike-protocols/14106-how-vpn-works.html

1000BaseSX is an Ethernet standard that should be used to connect the network switch to the existing multimode fiber optic cable. 1000BaseSX is a Gigabit Ethernet standard that uses short-wavelength laser (850 nm) over multimode fiber optic cable. It can support distances up to 550 meters depending on the cable type and quality. It is suitable for short-range network segments such as campus or building backbone networks. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/interfaces-modules/gigabit-ethernet-gbic-sfp-modules/product_data_sheet09186a008014cb5e.html

show interface is a command-line tool that displays information about the status, configuration, and statistics of an interface on a network device. A technician can use show interface to determine where the incident is occurring in a network by checking the uplink status, speed, duplex mode, errors, collisions, and other parameters of each interface. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-show-interface

An omni antenna should be used by the AP to provide service in a radius surrounding a radio. An omni antenna is a type of antenna that has a 360-degree horizontal radiation pattern. It can provide wireless coverage in all directions from the antenna with varying degrees of vertical coverage. It is suitable for indoor environments where users are located around the AP1. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless-mobility/wireless-lan-wlan/82068-omni-vs-direct.html  1

An omnidirectional antenna was used instead of a unidirectional antenna, which is most likely the cause of the wireless network issues. An omnidirectional antenna provides wireless coverage in all directions from the antenna, which can cause signal overlap with adjacent offices and interference with other wireless networks. A unidirectional antenna, on the other hand, provides wireless coverage in a specific direction from the antenna, which can reduce signal overlap and interference and increase signal range and quality. A unidirectional antenna would be more suitable for a warehouse environment where users are located on one side of the building1. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/wireless-mobility/wireless-lan-wlan/82068-omni-vs-direct.html  1

Giants are packets that exceed the configured MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) of a switchport or interface, which causes them to be dropped or fragmented by the switch or router. The MTU is the maximum size of a packet that can be transmitted without fragmentation on a given medium or protocol. Giants can indicate misconfiguration or mismatch of MTU values between devices or interfaces on a network, which can cause performance issues or errors. CRC errors are errors that occur when the cyclic redundancy check (CRC) value of a packet does not match the calculated CRC value at the destination, which indicates corruption or alteration of data during transmission due to noise, interference, faulty cabling, etc., but not necessarily exceeding MTU values. Runts are packets that are smaller than the minimum size allowed by the medium or protocol, which causes them to be dropped or ignored by the switch or router. Flooding is a technique where a switch sends packets to all ports except the source port when it does not have an entry for the destination MAC address in its MAC address table, which can cause congestion or broadcast storms on a network.

Quality of service (QoS) is a mechanism that prioritizes network traffic based on different criteria, such as application type, source and destination address, port number, etc., and allocates bandwidth and resources accordingly. QoS would best improve performance for video conferencing, as it would ensure that video traffic gets higher priority and lower latency than other types of traffic on the network. Packet shaping is a technique that controls the rate or volume of network traffic by delaying or dropping packets that exceed certain thresholds or violate certain policies, which may not improve performance for video conferencing if it causes packet loss or jitter. Port mirroring is a technique that copies traffic from one port to another port on a switch for monitoring or analysis purposes, which does not improve performance for video conferencing at all. Load balancing is a technique that distributes network traffic across multiple servers or devices for improved availability and scalability, which does not

RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) is a protocol that should be used by the organization to allow for authentication, authorization, and auditing of network services. RADIUS is an AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting) protocol that manages network access by verifying user credentials, granting access permissions, and logging user activities. RADIUS uses a client-server model where a RADIUS client (such as a router, switch, or VPN server) sends user information to a RADIUS server (such as an authentication server) for verification and authorization. The RADIUS server can also send accounting information to another server for billing or reporting purposes. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/security-vpn/remote-authentication-dial-user-service-radius/13838-10.html

Giants are packets that exceed the configured MTU (Maximum Transmission Unit) of a switchport or interface, which causes them to be dropped or fragmented by the switch or router. The MTU is the maximum size of a packet that can be transmitted without fragmentation on a given medium or protocol. Giants can indicate misconfiguration or mismatch of MTU values between devices or interfaces on a network, which can cause performance issues or errors. CRC errors are errors that occur when the cyclic redundancy check (CRC) value of a packet does not match the calculated CRC value at the destination, which indicates corruption or alteration of data during transmission due to noise, interference, faulty cabling, etc., but not necessarily exceeding MTU values. Runts are packets that are smaller than the minimum size allowed by the medium or protocol, which causes them to be dropped or ignored by the switch or router. Flooding is a technique where a switch sends packets to all ports except the source port when it does not have an entry for the destination MAC address in its MAC address table, which can cause congestion or broadcast storms on a network.

A type 1 hypervisor is a system that is installed directly on a server’s hardware and abstracts the hardware from any guest machines. A hypervisor is a software layer that enables virtualization by creating and managing virtual machines (VMs) on a physical host. A type 1 hypervisor, also known as a bare-metal hypervisor or a native hypervisor, runs directly on the host’s hardware without requiring an underlying operating system (OS). It provides better performance and security than a type 2 hypervisor, which runs on top of an existing OS and relies on it for hardware access. References: https://www.vmware.com/topics/glossary/content/hypervisor

A honeypot is a decoy system that is intentionally left vulnerable or exposed to attract attackers and divert them from the real targets. A honeypot can also be used to collect information about the attackers’ techniques and motives. In the scenario, the SaaS provider has left an unpatched VM available via a public DMZ port, which could be a honeypot technique to lure attackers and monitor their activities. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-honeypot

The antenna type affects the signal strength and coverage of a WAP. Different types of antennas have different radiation patterns and gain, which determine how far and wide the signal can reach. If the user experiences a weak signal in one direction but a strong signal in the opposite direction, it could mean that the antenna type is not suitable for the desired coverage area. The technician should consider changing the antenna type to one that has a more balanced or directional radiation pattern. References: https://community.cisco.com/t5/wireless-small-business/wap200-poor-signal-strength/td-p/1565796

TACACS+ is a protocol that provides centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) for network devices and users. TACACS+ can help improve the security of the management console on the company’s switches by verifying the identity and credentials of the administrators, enforcing granular access policies and permissions, and logging the configuration changes made by each administrator. This way, the network administrator can ensure only authorized and authenticated users can access and modify the switch settings, and also track and correlate the changes made by each user. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-tacacs

172.19.0.2 is a valid IP address configuration for the device that uses a static RFC1918 address for the network and allows for a connection over NAT (Network Address Translation). RFC1918 addresses are private IP addresses that are not routable on the public Internet and are used for internal networks. The RFC1918 address ranges are 10.0.0.0/8, 172.16.0.0/12, and 192.168.0.0/16. NAT is a technique that translates private IP addresses to public IP addresses when communicating with external networks, such as the Internet. FE80::1 is an IPv6 link-local address that is not a static RFC1918 address and does not allow for a connection over NAT. 100.64.0.1 is an IPv4 address that belongs to the shared address space range (100.64.0.0/10) that is used for carrier-grade NAT (CGN) between service providers and subscribers, which is not a static RFC1918 address and does not allow for a connection over NAT. 169.254.1.2 is an IPv4 link-local address that is automatically assigned by a device when it cannot obtain an IP address from a DHCP server or manual configuration, which is not a static RFC1918 address and does not allow for a connection over NAT. 224.0.0.12 is an IPv4 multicast address that is used for VRRP (Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol), which is not a static RFC1918 address and does not allow for a connection over NAT.

If the link LEDs on the workstation and modem do not light up when connecting to a workstation, it could indicate a problem with the cable connecting them. The cable could be damaged, defective, or incompatible with the devices. A technician should replace the cable with a known good one and check if the link LEDs light up. If not, the problem could be with the network interface cards (NICs) on the workstation or modem. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-link-light

10 additional network connections are needed to transition from a star to a full-mesh topology. A star topology is a network topology where each device is connected to a central device, such as a switch or a hub. A full-mesh topology is a network topology where each device is directly connected to every other device. The number of connections needed for a full-mesh topology can be calculated by the formula n(n-1)/2, where n is the number of devices. In this case, there are six devices (one core and five distribution switches), so the number of connections needed for a full-mesh topology is 6(6-1)/2 = 15. Since there are already five connections in the star topology (one from each distribution switch to the core switch), the number of additional connections needed is 15 - 5 = 10. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/routing-information-protocol-rip/13788-3.html

Implicit deny is a firewall rule that blocks all traffic that is not explicitly allowed by other rules. Implicit deny is usually applied as the last rule in the firewall to ensure that only the necessary access requirements are allowed through the firewall and that any unwanted or malicious traffic is rejected. Implicit deny can also provide a default security policy and a baseline for auditing and logging purposes.

Secure SNMP is a protocol that allows network devices to send event messages to a centralized server or console for logging and analysis. Secure SNMP can be used to monitor and manage the status, performance, and configuration of network devices. Secure SNMP can also help to detect and respond to potential problems or faults on the network. However, secure SNMP is not a firewall rule; it is a network management protocol.

Port security is a feature that allows a switch to restrict the devices that can connect to a specific port based on their MAC addresses. Port security can help to prevent unauthorized access, spoofing, or MAC flooding attacks on the switch. However, port security is not a firewall rule; it is a switch feature.

DHCP snooping is a feature that allows a switch to filter DHCP messages and prevent rogue DHCP servers from assigning IP addresses to devices on the network. DHCP snooping can help to prevent IP address conflicts, spoofing, or denial-of-service attacks on the network. However, DHCP snooping is not a firewall rule; it is a switch feature.

The default gateway is the setting that the user most likely misconfigured on the PC that caused it to be unable to access websites by both FQDN and IP. The default gateway is a device, usually a router or a firewall, that connects a local network to other networks such as the Internet. It acts as an intermediary between devices on different networks and forwards packets based on their destination IP addresses. If the default gateway is not configured correctly on a PC, it will not be able to communicate with devices outside its local network, such as web servers or DNS servers. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/routing-information-protocol-rip/16448-default-gateway.html

SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is a protocol that allows network devices to communicate with a network management system (NMS) for monitoring and configuration purposes. SNMP traps are unsolicited messages sent by network devices to the NMS when certain events or conditions occur, such as errors, failures, or thresholds. Configuring SNMP traps on the network would best help the administrator determine the cause of jitter and high latency on a VoIP network, as they would provide real-time alerts and information about the network performance and status. Enabling RADIUS on the network is not relevant to troubleshooting VoIP issues, as RADIUS is a protocol that provides authentication, authorization, and accounting services for network access. Implementing LDAP on the network is also not relevant to troubleshooting VoIP issues, as LDAP is a protocol that provides directory services for storing and querying information about users, groups, devices, etc. Establishing NTP on the network is not directly related to troubleshooting VoIP issues, as NTP is a protocol that synchronizes the clocks of network devices.

The power level is a setting that determines how strong the wireless signal is from an access point (AP). If the power level is too high for an AP on the far side of a warehouse, it can cause interference and overlap with other APs on the same channel or frequency. This can result in handheld devices not connecting to the nearest APs, but connecting to the AP on the far side instead. A technician should adjust the power level of the AP on the far side to reduce interference and improve connectivity. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-power-level

 Using an out-of-band access method is the best way to prevent unauthorized access to the legacy switches that do not support cryptographic functions. Out-of-band access is a method of accessing a network device through a dedicated channel that is separate from the main network traffic. Out-of-band access can use physical connections such as serial console ports or dial-up modems, or logical connections such as VPNs or firewalls. Out-of-band access provides more security and reliability than in-band access, which uses the same network as the data traffic and may be vulnerable to attacks or failures. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/ios-xml/ios/fundamentals/configuration/15mt/fundamentals-15-mt-book/cf-out-band-mgmt.html

A door lock would be the best security device to use to provide mechanical access control to the MDF/IDF. A door lock is a device that prevents unauthorized access to a physical area by requiring a key, a code, a card, a biometric scan, or a combination of these factors to open it. A door lock can provide mechanical access control to the MDF/IDF, which are rooms that house network equipment such as switches, routers, servers, or patch panels. A door lock can prevent unauthorized persons from tampering with or stealing the network equipment or data. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/solutions/Enterprise/Data_Center/DC_Infra2_5/DCInfra_6.html

Change management documentation is a record of the changes that have been made to a system or process, including the reason, date, time, and impact of each change. A technician can reference this documentation to find what solution was implemented to resolve a previously encountered issue, as well as any potential side effects or dependencies of the change. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-change-management

RG-6 is a type of coaxial cable that is commonly used by cable companies to provide Internet access from the demarcation point back to the central office. It has a thicker conductor and better shielding than RG-59, which is another type of coaxial cable. Multimode and Cat 5e are types of fiber optic and twisted pair cables respectively, which are not typically used by cable companies. Cat 6 and 100BASE-T are standards for twisted pair cables, not types of cabling.

255.255.252.0 is a subnet mask that allows for 1022 network-connected devices on the same subnet, which is the smallest subnet that can accommodate 412 devices. The subnet mask determines how many bits are used for the network portion and how many bits are used for the host portion of an IP address. A smaller subnet mask means more bits are used for the network portion and less bits are used for the host portion, which reduces the number of available hosts on the subnet. 255.255.0.0 allows for 65534 hosts on the same subnet, which is too large. 255.255.254.0 allows for 510 hosts on the same subnet, which is also too large. 255.255.255.0 allows for 254 hosts on the same subnet, which is too small.

NDA stands for Non-Disclosure Agreement, which is a legal contract between two or more parties that outlines confidential material, knowledge, or information that the parties wish to share with one another for certain purposes, but wish to restrict access to by others. A network administrator may need to sign an NDA before sharing information about a new project with different vendors, as the project may involve sensitive or proprietary data that the company wants to protect from competitors or unauthorized use. References: https://www.adobe.com/sign/esignature-resources/sign-nda.html

SIEM stands for Security Information and Event Management, which is a tool that collects, analyzes, and correlates data from various network devices and sources to provide alerts and reports on security incidents and events. A network technician can use SIEM to correlate security events to analyze a suspected intrusion, as SIEM can help identify the source, target, method, and impact of an attack, as well as provide recommendations for remediation. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-siem

A wireless controller would be able to handle the requirement of implementing a large number of WAPs throughout the building and allowing users to move around without dropping their connections. A wireless controller is a device that centrally manages and configures multiple wireless access points (WAPs) on a network. It can provide features such as load balancing, roaming, security, QoS, and monitoring for the wireless network. A wireless controller can also support wireless mesh networks, where some WAPs act as relays for other WAPs to extend the wireless coverage. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/wireless/wireless-lan-controller/index.html

An ARP request operates at the data link layer of the OSI model. ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) is a protocol that maps IP addresses to MAC addresses on a local area network. It allows devices to communicate with each other without knowing their MAC addresses beforehand. ARP operates at the data link layer (layer 2) of the OSI model, which is responsible for framing and addressing data packets on a physical medium. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/routing-information-protocol-rip/13788-3.html

A warm site is a type of disaster recovery site that has equipment ready to go in the event of a disaster at the main datacenter, but does not have live data or applications. A warm site requires some time and effort to restore the data and services from backups, but it is less expensive than a hot site that has live data and applications. A cold site is a disaster recovery site that has no equipment or data, and requires a lot of time and money to set up after a disaster. A cloud site is a disaster recovery site that uses cloud computing resources to provide data and services, but it may have issues with bandwidth, latency, security, and cost. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-warm-site

AUP stands for Acceptable Use Policy, which is a policy that defines the rules and guidelines for using a network or service. A guest captive portal is a web page that requires users to agree to the AUP before accessing the Internet or other network resources. This is a common way to enforce security and legal compliance for guest users. References: https://www.arubanetworks.com/techdocs/Instant_87_WebHelp/Content/instant-ug/captive-portal/captive-portal.htm

The output is most likely an example of an ARP poisoning attack. ARP poisoning, also known as ARP spoofing, is a type of attack that exploits the ARP protocol to associate a malicious device’s MAC address with a legitimate IP address on a local area network. This allows the attacker to intercept, modify, or redirect network traffic between two devices without their knowledge. The output shows that there are multiple entries for the same IP address (192.168.1.1) with different MAC addresses in the ARP cache of the device. This indicates that an attacker has sent fake ARP replies to trick the device into believing that its MAC address is associated with the IP address of another device (such as the default gateway). References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/about/security-center/arp-spoofing.html

Load balancing is a technology that allows traffic to be sent through two different ISPs to increase performance. Load balancing is a process of distributing network traffic across multiple servers or links to optimize resource utilization, throughput, latency, and reliability. Load balancing can be implemented at different layers of the OSI model, such as layer 4 (transport) or layer 7 (application). Load balancing can also be used for outbound traffic by using multiple ISPs and routing protocols such as BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) to select the best path for each packet. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/products/collateral/ios-nx-os-software/border-gateway-protocol-bgp/prod_white_paper0900aecd806c4eeb.html

Consistent labeling would be the concept that would best help the technician to confirm which switchport corresponds to the wall jack the PC is using. Consistent labeling is a practice of using standardized and descriptive labels for network devices, ports, cables, jacks, and other components. It can help with identifying, locating, and troubleshooting network issues. For example, a technician can use consistent labeling to trace a cable from a PC to a wall jack, and then from a patch panel to a switchport. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/solutions/Enterprise/Data_Center/DC_Infra2_5/DCInfra_6.html

The network administrator should confirm the patch’s MD5 hash prior to the upgrade to help ensure the upgrade process will be less likely to cause problems with the switches. MD5 (Message Digest 5) is a cryptographic hash function that produces a 128-bit hash value for any given input. It can be used to verify the integrity and authenticity of a file by comparing its hash value with a known or expected value. If the hash values match, it means that the file has not been corrupted or tampered with during transmission or storage. If the hash values do not match, it means that the file may be damaged or malicious and should not be used for the upgrade. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/security-vpn/secure-shell-ssh/15292-scp.html

netstat -a is a command that displays information about active TCP connections and listening ports on a system. A network administrator can use netstat -a to check if the database engine is listening on a certain port, as well as verify if there are any connections established to or from that port. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-netstat

A damaged cable is most likely the cause of the desktop not connecting to the network. A damaged cable can cause physical layer issues such as loss of signal, attenuation, interference, or crosstalk. These issues can prevent the desktop from establishing a link with the switch and result in the LED status light on the switchport being off. Other possible causes of physical layer issues are faulty connectors, ports, or transceivers. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/lan-switching/ethernet/14119-37.html

Wireless client isolation is a feature on wireless routers that limits the connectivity between wireless devices connected to the same network. It prevents them from accessing resources on other wireless or wired devices, as a security measure to reduce attacks and threats. This feature can be useful for guest and BYOD SSIDs, but it can also be disabled on the router’s settings. References: https://www.howtogeek.com/179089/lock-down-your-wi-fi-network-with-your-routers-wireless-isolation-option/

 RJ11 is a type of connector that is commonly used for analog phone lines. RJ11 has four wires and six positions, but only two or four of them are used. A technician can crimp an RJ11 connector to a new phone line to install an analog desk phone for a new receptionist. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-rj11

Role-based access is a security capability that assigns permissions to users based on their roles or functions within an organization. It allows the network administrator to maintain these permissions with the least administrative effort, as they only need to configure the security groups for each role once and then assign users to those groups. Mandatory access control is a security capability that assigns permissions based on security labels or classifications, which requires more administrative effort to maintain. User-based permissions are a security capability that assigns permissions to individual users, which is not scalable or efficient for large organizations. Least privilege is a security principle that states that users should only have the minimum level of access required to perform their tasks, which is not a security capability by itself.

SIEM stands for Security Information and Event Management, which is a tool that collects, analyzes, and correlates data from various network devices and sources to provide alerts and reports on security incidents and events. A report from the SIEM tool can provide a comprehensive overview of the network alerts from the past week to the executive staff, highlighting any potential threats, vulnerabilities, or anomalies. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-siem

A site-to-site VPN is a type of VPN that connects two or more remote offices securely over an untrustworthy network, such as the Internet. A site-to-site VPN allows each office to access network shares and resources at the other site, as if they were on the same local network. A site-to-site VPN encrypts and tunnels the traffic between the offices, ensuring privacy and integrity of the data. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-site-to-site-vpn

 TCP is the protocol type that describes secure communication on port 443. TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is a connection-oriented protocol that provides reliable and ordered delivery of data packets over an IP network. TCP uses port numbers to identify different applications or services on a device. Port 443 is the default port for HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure), which is an extension of HTTP that uses SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption to protect data in transit between a web server and a web browser. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/ip/routing-information-protocol-rip/13788-3.html

The default credentials are the username and password that come with a device or service when it is first installed or configured. They are often easy to guess or find online, which makes them vulnerable to unauthorized access or attacks. The default credentials should be changed to something unique and strong as soon as possible to avoid this situation. If the default credentials were not changed, someone could have accessed the SOHO router and changed the WiFi settings without the employees’ knowledge. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/network-security-basics-6-easy-ways-to-protect-your-network

Time to live (TTL) is a value that indicates how long a DNS record can be cached by authoritative NSs (name servers) or other DNS servers before it expires and needs to be updated. A lower TTL value would expedite MX record updates to authoritative NSs, as they would refresh the record more frequently. UDP forwarding is not a DNS term, but a technique of sending UDP packets from one host to another. DNS caching is the process of storing DNS records locally for faster resolution, which does not expedite MX record updates. Recursive lookup is a type of DNS query where a DNS server queries other DNS servers on behalf of a client until it finds the answer, which does not expedite MX record updates.

A heat map would most likely be created as a result of the site survey. A heat map is a graphical representation of the wireless signal strength and coverage in a given area. It can show the location of APs, antennas, walls, obstacles, interference sources, and dead zones. It can help with planning, optimizing, and troubleshooting wireless networks. References: https://www.netspotapp.com/what-is-a-wifi-heatmap.html

IaaS stands for Infrastructure as a Service, which is a cloud computing model that provides virtualized computing resources such as servers, storage, and networking over the Internet. When implementing IaaS, the network technician should consider the server hardware requirements, such as CPU, RAM, disk space, and network bandwidth, that are needed to run the applications and services on the cloud. The other options are not relevant to IaaS, as they are either handled by the cloud provider or by the end-user. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-iaas

Firmware is a type of software that controls the low-level functions of a hardware device, such as a router, switch, printer, or camera. Firmware updates are patches or upgrades that fix bugs, improve performance, add features, or address security vulnerabilities in firmware. Firmware updates are commonly used to address CVEs (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) on network equipment and operating systems, as CVEs are publicly known flaws that can be exploited by attackers. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-firmware

Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts user data and demands a ransom for its decryption. Ransomware can prevent users from accessing their files and applications, and cause data loss or corruption. A proper backup implementation is essential to recover from a ransomware attack, as it can help restore the encrypted data without paying the ransom or relying on the attackers’ decryption key. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-ransomware

EAP-TLS is the method that should be selected to meet the requirements for designing a new secure wireless network. EAP-TLS (Extensible Authentication Protocol - Transport Layer Security) is an authentication protocol that uses X.509 digital certificates for both clients and servers. It provides strong security and mutual authentication by using TLS encryption and public key cryptography. It does not use plaintext passwords or shared secrets that can be compromised or guessed. It is also an open standard that is vendor neutral and supported by most wireless devices1. References: https://www.securew2.com/blog/what-is-eap-tls  1

The switch processes the data by flooding it out of every port, except the one on which it came in. Flooding is a process where a switch sends a data frame to all ports except the source port when it does not have an entry for the destination MAC address in its MAC address table. Flooding allows the switch to learn the MAC addresses of the devices connected to its ports and update its MAC address table accordingly. Flooding also ensures that the data frame reaches its intended destination, even if the switch does not know its location. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/lan-switching/spanning-tree-protocol/10556-16.html

SLAAC (Stateless Address Autoconfiguration) is a method for IPv6 devices to automatically configure their IP addresses based on the network prefix advertised by a router. The router sends periodic router advertisements (RAs) that contain the network prefix and other parameters for the devices to use. If the network gateway is not configured to send RAs, then SLAAC will not work. A DHCP server is not needed for SLAAC, as the devices generate their own addresses without relying on a server. Dual stack and anycast routing are not related to SLAAC.

A reservation is a feature of DHCP that assigns a specific IP address to a device based on its MAC address. This way, the device will always receive the same IP address from the DHCP server, regardless of its location or connection time. A network administrator can set up a reservation for each loT device to accomplish the requirements of reducing manual configuration, assigning a specific IP address, and allowing devices to move to different switchports on the same VLAN. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-dhcp

Port tagging is a technique that involves adding a tag or identifier to the frames or packets that belong to a certain VLAN. A VLAN is a logical segment of a network that isolates traffic between different groups of devices. Port tagging allows devices on different physical ports or switches to communicate with each other as if they were on the same port or switch. Port tagging can help keep the design simple and efficient by reducing the number of physical ports and switches needed to segment departments into different networks. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-port-tagging

Clustering is a technique that involves grouping multiple servers or instances together to provide high availability and fault tolerance for a database. Clustering can help improve the availability of a SQL database by allowing automatic failover and load balancing between the cluster nodes. If one node fails or becomes overloaded, another node can take over the database operations without disrupting the service. References: https://www.educba.com/sql-cluster/

IaaS stands for Infrastructure as a Service, which is a cloud computing model that provides virtualized computing resources such as servers, storage, and networking over the Internet. IaaS can provide data storage, hardware options, and scalability to a third-party company that cannot afford new devices by allowing them to rent or lease the infrastructure they need from a cloud provider. The company can pay only for what they use and scale up or down as needed. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-iaas

A virtual switch is a software-based switch that connects virtual machines on a hypervisor. A virtual switch can create and manage VLANs, which are logical segments of a network that isolate traffic between different groups of devices. A customer can use virtual switches to segregate the traffic between guests on a hypervisor by creating a separate VLAN for each guest and assigning it to a virtual switch port. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-a-virtual-switch

Syslog is a protocol that provides a standard way for network devices and applications to send event messages to a logging server or a security appliance. Syslog messages can contain information about security incidents, errors, warnings, system status, configuration changes, and other events. A security appliance that is correlating network events from multiple devices can rely on Syslog to receive event messages from different sources and formats. References: https://www.comptia.org/blog/what-is-syslog

A VLAN mismatch is the most likely reason why an IP phone does not receive the necessary DHCP options for registration. A VLAN mismatch occurs when a device is connected to a switch port that belongs to a different VLAN than the device’s intended VLAN. This can cause communication problems or prevent access to network resources. For example, if an IP phone is connected to a switch port that belongs to the data VLAN instead of the voice VLAN, it may not receive the DHCP options that contain information such as the TFTP server address, the NTP server address, or the default gateway address for the voice VLAN. These DHCP options are essential for the IP phone to register with the VoIP system and function properly. References: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/voice-unified-communications/unified-communications-manager-callmanager/13979-dhcp-option-150-00.html