CompTIA N10-009 Network+ Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 4 Q46-60
Visit here for our full CompTIA N10-009 exam dumps and practice test questions.
Question 46
Which wireless standard operates exclusively in the 5 GHz band and supports multi-gigabit throughput using beamforming and wider channel bandwidths?
A) 802.11n
B) 802.11ac
C) 802.11g
D) 802.11b
Answer: B) 802.11ac
Explanation:
The wireless standard known for operating exclusively in the 5 GHz spectrum and enabling multi-gigabit throughput through technologies such as beamforming and wide channel bandwidths is 802.11ac. This standard brought a significant advancement in wireless networking performance by shifting operations entirely to the less congested 5 GHz frequency band. Because of this choice, it avoids interference commonly seen in older standards that rely on the 2.4 GHz band. The design of this standard enables high throughput, making it suitable for environments demanding fast data transmission such as streaming high-definition media, large file transfers, virtual desktop environments, and dense corporate wireless networks. The use of multiple spatial streams and channel bandwidths reaching up to 160 MHz allows this standard to deliver exceptional performance compared to its predecessors. Additionally, the incorporation of beamforming technology enhances signal directionality, improving coverage and performance by concentrating wireless energy toward client devices instead of broadcasting in all directions uniformly. This results in better efficiency, improved throughput, and more stable connections in demanding environments.
The first choice describes a standard that operates in both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands. Although this earlier standard introduced improvements such as the use of multiple input and multiple output technology and offered enhanced speeds compared to even older standards, it did not restrict itself exclusively to the 5 GHz band. Because it maintained backward compatibility with older devices operating in the 2.4 GHz band, it remained subject to the congestion and interference associated with that part of the spectrum. Additionally, despite improvements, its throughput capabilities remained significantly lower than those provided by the more modern standard associated with this question. While it allowed multiple spatial streams and improved data rates, it relied on narrower channel widths and lacked some of the advanced performance-enhancing technologies that became integral to the later specification. Therefore, despite being versatile in its dual-band functionality, it cannot be considered the standard that introduced exclusive 5 GHz operation combined with multi-gigabit throughput.
The next option refers to a wireless standard that operates strictly within the 2.4 GHz frequency range. This standard predates the later 5 GHz-based technologies and was widely used because of its compatibility and long range. However, due to its reliance on the crowded 2.4 GHz band, it suffers from interference caused by other wireless devices, household appliances, and overlapping networks. It provides modest throughput compared to modern standards and relies on older modulation techniques. This older specification does not support advanced features such as beamforming or wide channel bandwidths. It served as a stepping stone toward better network speeds but does not meet any of the requirements associated with multi-gigabit Wi-Fi, nor does it operate outside the 2.4 GHz range. Its maximum throughput capabilities are far below what the newer 5 GHz-exclusive standard can achieve. Although historically important, it is technologically insufficient for modern enterprise needs requiring high-performance wireless connectivity.
The last option represents one of the earliest widely adopted Wi-Fi standards, also limited to the 2.4 GHz spectrum. Its data transmission rates are extremely low by modern measurements and are inadequate for today’s bandwidth-intensive tasks. It relies on older modulation schemes that significantly restrict throughput. This standard cannot take advantage of techniques such as beamforming, multiple spatial streams, or wider channels. Because of its fundamental limitations, it is susceptible to interference, has extremely limited bandwidth capacity, and does not support high-speed networking. Modern networks almost never rely on this early specification except when supporting very old devices. It lacks all characteristics associated with advanced performance capabilities, making it far removed from multi-gigabit operations.
The correct answer is the standard that introduced sweeping advancements in wireless throughput and efficiency through dedicated use of the 5 GHz band. Its ability to employ extremely wide channel widths, multiple spatial streams, and beamforming creates a foundation for high-speed connectivity that dramatically outperforms earlier implementations. Operating exclusively at 5 GHz enables the avoidance of interference issues that are common in the 2.4 GHz spectrum. The design of this standard supports real-world speeds that can comfortably exceed those of its predecessors, enabling seamless streaming, high-speed downloads, and reliable connectivity for environments with many simultaneous users.
Wider channel bandwidths, reaching up to 160 MHz, allow this standard to move significantly more data within the same period compared to the narrower channels used by earlier technologies. By using multiple spatial streams, it multiplies throughput further, allowing simultaneous data pathways between access points and client devices. Beamforming enhances signal direction and intensity, ensuring improved coverage and stability. These technologies combine to create a standard capable of true multi-gigabit speed delivery. It represents a major shift in wireless performance, enabling wireless networks to more closely match the speeds typically associated with wired connections.
When considering the options, the exclusive operation in the 5 GHz band eliminates older standards limited to the 2.4 GHz spectrum. The advanced features such as multi-gigabit capacity, enhanced modulation, and spatial stream improvements clearly place the correct answer beyond earlier dual-band specifications. Only one standard introduced these performance-enhancing innovations while restricting its operation entirely to the 5 GHz band. Therefore, the correct response stands out as the wireless technology that moved Wi-Fi into a new era of high-speed, low-interference, and performance-driven capability.
Question 47
Which protocol is primarily responsible for dynamically assigning IP addresses to clients within a network?
A) DNS
B) DHCP
C) SNMP
D) NTP
Answer: B) DHCP
Explanation:
The protocol responsible for dynamically assigning IP addresses to devices on a network is DHCP. This protocol plays a vital role in automating the distribution of network configuration information so that individual devices do not require manual addressing. When a device connects to a network, it broadcasts a request to obtain its addressing details. The server responding to this request sends back the necessary information, such as the assigned address, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers. This process ensures that each device receives a valid address while preventing conflicts that could occur if addresses were randomly assigned. DHCP makes network management far simpler, especially in large environments where manually configuring thousands of devices would be impractical. The protocol also supports address leasing, allowing addresses to be reclaimed and reused over time. This ensures optimal utilization of available address space and efficient handling of new devices joining the network. Through these mechanisms, DHCP enables networks to scale while avoiding administrative overhead and addressing errors.
The first choice refers to a protocol used for resolving hostnames to IP addresses. It functions very differently from the process of assigning addresses automatically. When a user enters a domain name, a query is sent to servers storing records that map those names to addresses. This allows devices to locate services on the internet or internal networks. While essential for translation functions, this protocol does not interact with the tasks of assigning addressing details to clients. Instead, it operates later in the communication workflow. Devices must already possess an address before they can make requests to servers that translate domain names. Because of this requirement, it cannot serve as the primary mechanism for distributing addressing information within a network.
The third option represents a protocol designed for monitoring and managing network devices. Administrators use this protocol to gather statistics, manage configurations, and receive alerts when issues occur. It employs agents running on devices to collect system information and communicate with management stations. These functions revolve around visibility, control, and automation rather than the assignment of addresses. Although it operates within managed networks, its responsibilities fall entirely outside the scope of client addressing. The protocol may report on interface status, bandwidth consumption, performance metrics, and operational conditions. However, it does not assign configuration details to clients, nor does it participate in distributing addressing information necessary for basic communication.
The last option refers to a protocol that synchronizes time among systems. Accurate timekeeping ensures that logs, authentication systems, certificates, and scheduled tasks remain consistent across devices. By using servers with reliable time sources, machines on the network adjust their internal clocks to maintain uniform time. Although crucial for many operations, it bears no relevance to addressing tasks. Devices must already possess a valid address before they can contact time-synchronization servers. Synced time helps ensure accurate event correlation and improves security mechanisms dependent on timestamps, but it does not serve any purpose in distributing addressing details.
The correct answer is DHCP because it is the only protocol specifically designed for assigning addressing information automatically. DHCP reduces configuration complexity, avoids address conflicts, and makes networks more flexible. When a client joins a network, it initiates communication by broadcasting a discovery message. A server receives this and responds with an offer containing addressing details. The client then requests the offered configuration, and the server finalizes the process by acknowledging the assignment. The address is leased for a specific duration, allowing renewal or release depending on how long the device remains active. This design ensures that address resources remain organized and efficiently used.
DHCP also supports reservations that ensure specific devices always receive the same address. This is useful for servers, printers, or network appliances requiring fixed identification without being manually configured. Additionally, DHCP relays allow networks without a directly connected server to still deliver address assignments through intermediary devices. This capability ensures large, segmented networks remain expandable while centralizing address management. In IPv6 networks, DHCP’s role shifts slightly due to the introduction of stateless address autoconfiguration, but it can still deliver additional configuration details even if the address itself is auto-generated.
Administrators rely heavily on DHCP to maintain organized networks. Without it, devices would require manual address configuration, making operations complex and prone to human error. Duplicate addresses could easily appear, causing communication failures and outages. DHCP eliminates this risk by ensuring that each address assignment is tracked. This controlled mechanism also supports network scaling. As organizations grow, DHCP continues to automatically provide addressing details to new devices without requiring additional administrative effort. Its ability to distribute not just addresses but also other parameters, such as gateway and DNS settings, ensures that devices are immediately functional after receiving their configuration.
In contrast, the other listed protocols serve entirely different purposes. DNS translates names to addresses but does not assign them. SNMP monitors device behavior but does not provide addressing details. NTP synchronizes time but cannot configure clients. Only DHCP performs the dynamic assignment of addressing information. This makes it essential for modern network operations, enabling large and dynamic environments to run efficiently with minimal manual intervention. Without this protocol, addressing would become a burdensome administrative task and networks would face increased risks of assigning duplicate addresses. DHCP therefore remains a cornerstone of network configuration, enabling reliable and scalable address distribution.
Question 48
Which WAN technology uses cell-switched virtual circuits and fixed-size packets for data transmission?
A) MPLS
B) Frame Relay
C) ATM
D) PPP
Answer: C) ATM
Explanation:
ATM is a WAN technology designed to transmit data using fixed-size packets known as cells. Each cell is 53 bytes long, containing 48 bytes of payload and 5 bytes of header information. The uniform size ensures predictable performance, enabling smooth transport of voice, video, and data. ATM uses virtual circuits, either permanent or switched, to establish communication paths between endpoints. Because the cells maintain consistent size, devices handling them can forward traffic quickly using hardware-based switching mechanisms. This predictable behavior allows ATM to deliver low latency and guaranteed levels of service, making it historically attractive for environments requiring reliable performance. Although not widely used today, ATM played a major role in earlier backbone networks and telecommunications infrastructure due to its efficiency and ability to handle multiple traffic types. Its cell-based architecture helps reduce jitter for real-time services, making it suitable for voice and video transmission over long distances. ATM was engineered to support quality-of-service mechanisms that allow networks to prioritize particular types of traffic, ensuring consistent delivery when needed.
The first option refers to a WAN technology that uses labels to forward packets through the network. It supports traffic engineering, quality of service, and efficient routing by assigning labels instead of using traditional routing lookups. Because of its flexibility and performance, it is widely used in service-provider networks. However, it does not use fixed-size cells. Instead, it handles variable-length packets that follow label-switched paths. This feature makes it more adaptable but means it does not employ the uniform cell structure associated with ATM. MPLS has largely replaced earlier technologies, but it differs fundamentally in how it handles packet size and switching behavior.
The second choice describes an older WAN protocol that uses variable-length frames for communication. It relies on virtual circuits but transmits frames of varying sizes rather than fixed-size cells. It does not enforce a strict cell size, and its design reflects earlier networking approaches focused on efficiency rather than the predictable timing needed for real-time communications. Although historically important, it cannot be considered a cell-based technology. It handles frames differently, supporting different performance expectations compared to ATM.
The fourth option refers to a point-to-point protocol used to establish direct connections between two nodes. It does not use virtual circuits or fixed-size cells. Instead, it encapsulates packets for transmission over serial links. It lacks advanced features such as hardware-based switching and quality-of-service guarantees designed specifically for real-time applications. Its focus is on encapsulation and link management, making it fundamentally different from ATM’s cell-switching architecture.
The correct answer is ATM because it uniquely uses fixed-size cells and relies on virtual circuits to deliver predictable performance. The cell-based nature ensures consistent timing, allowing networks to manage voice and video effectively. This technology uses hardware switching to maintain high speeds and low latency. Unlike variable-length packet technologies, ATM maintains strict cell sizes for all transmissions, giving it a distinct operational model. Although no longer prominent, it remains historically significant for shaping the design of real-time WAN services.
Question 49
Which protocol is used to securely transfer files over a network while encrypting both commands and data?
A) FTP
B) SFTP
C) TFTP
D) SMTP
Answer: B) SFTP
Explanation:
SFTP is a protocol designed to securely transfer files over a network while encrypting both commands and data. It is built on the SSH (Secure Shell) protocol, which provides encryption, authentication, and integrity for the connection between the client and server. Unlike traditional file transfer protocols, SFTP ensures that usernames, passwords, commands, and file content are all transmitted in an encrypted format. This makes it significantly more secure than older protocols that transmit sensitive information in clear text. By leveraging SSH, SFTP provides a strong security framework, preventing eavesdropping, man-in-the-middle attacks, and unauthorized access. It also offers features such as directory listing, file deletion, file renaming, and permissions management, making it suitable for managing remote file systems securely. The combination of encryption and the ability to perform standard file operations makes SFTP a preferred choice for secure file management in enterprise environments, government networks, and financial organizations where data confidentiality is critical.
FTP, the traditional File Transfer Protocol, allows the transfer of files between clients and servers over a network but does so without encryption. Commands and data are transmitted in plain text, which exposes credentials and content to interception. FTP requires separate channels for commands (control channel) and data (data channel), which complicates firewall configuration and increases security risks. While FTP can provide basic authentication and reliable data transfer, it does not protect sensitive information. This makes it unsuitable for environments where confidentiality and integrity of data are critical. FTP remains in use in legacy systems or in networks with internal security measures, but its vulnerabilities make it inferior to SFTP for modern secure file transfer needs.
TFTP, the Trivial File Transfer Protocol, is a very simple file transfer protocol that operates without authentication or encryption. It is used for lightweight file transfer tasks, such as transferring firmware, configuration files, or boot images in controlled environments. Because TFTP does not provide security features, it is highly vulnerable to interception and tampering. It also lacks support for advanced file operations such as directory browsing, permissions management, or complex error handling. TFTP is suitable only for limited, trusted environments and is not appropriate for transferring sensitive data over untrusted networks. Its simplicity comes at the cost of security, which makes it unsuitable for most enterprise or internet-facing applications.
SMTP is the Simple Mail Transfer Protocol, used for sending and routing email messages between mail servers. It is not a file transfer protocol in the sense of providing general file management. While SMTP can transmit attachments along with emails, it is designed for email delivery rather than file system operations. Without additional encryption mechanisms such as TLS, SMTP sends messages in plaintext, exposing email content and attachments to interception. Even with TLS, SMTP focuses on email transmission, not secure remote file transfer, so it lacks the comprehensive file management capabilities provided by SFTP. SMTP does not provide remote directory access, file deletion, renaming, or permission control, making it unsuitable for secure file management tasks.
The correct answer is SFTP because it combines secure encryption and standard file operations, making it a robust solution for transferring and managing files over untrusted networks. All data transmitted via SFTP, including authentication credentials, commands, and file contents, is encrypted using strong cryptographic methods provided by SSH. This protects against interception, replay attacks, and unauthorized modification. SFTP also simplifies firewall traversal since it uses a single secure connection rather than multiple channels like FTP. This makes deployment easier and more secure in enterprise environments. SFTP supports session resumption, atomic operations, and integrity checks to ensure that files are transferred completely and accurately.
Another advantage of SFTP is its integration with existing authentication systems. It can use passwords, SSH keys, or multi-factor authentication to validate users, providing flexibility and strong security. Public key authentication allows administrators to restrict access to only approved clients, enhancing network security. Combined with logging and auditing capabilities, SFTP allows organizations to maintain accountability, meet compliance requirements, and trace file transfer operations if needed. These features are critical for industries handling sensitive data, such as financial services, healthcare, and government operations.
Unlike FTP and TFTP, which transmit data in plaintext, SFTP prevents attackers from capturing sensitive information during transit. Unlike SMTP, which is focused on email, SFTP enables secure interaction with remote file systems, providing directory access, permission management, and control over file operations. Its ability to encrypt both commands and data while maintaining standard file operations is what makes it superior for secure file transfer and management. For organizations needing confidentiality, integrity, and accountability, SFTP provides a comprehensive and reliable solution, making it the preferred protocol for secure network file operations.
SFTP also supports additional enterprise features such as batch transfers, automated scripts, and integration with secure storage systems, enabling efficient workflows for large-scale operations. Its reliance on SSH ensures that it benefits from continuous security improvements in cryptography, keeping it resilient against emerging threats. This combination of encryption, authentication, and advanced file management ensures that SFTP is a critical tool for modern secure networking and file transfer practices.
Question 50
Which network topology provides redundancy by connecting each node to multiple other nodes, ensuring that the failure of one connection does not isolate any single device?
A) Star
B) Ring
C) Mesh
D) Bus
Answer: C) Mesh
Explanation:
A mesh topology is a network layout in which each node is connected to multiple other nodes, creating redundant paths for data to travel. This redundancy ensures that the failure of a single connection or node does not disrupt communication across the network. Mesh topology can be full or partial: in a full mesh, every node is directly connected to every other node, while in a partial mesh, selected nodes are interconnected to provide redundancy without requiring full connectivity. Mesh networks are particularly valuable in environments where uptime and reliability are critical, such as in enterprise backbones, industrial control systems, and critical infrastructure networks. The multiple interconnections allow for alternative paths if a primary link fails, reducing the likelihood of network outages. Routing protocols within mesh networks can dynamically adjust paths, ensuring that traffic continues to flow even when individual links are unavailable.
The star topology connects all nodes to a central device, usually a switch or hub. Communication between devices passes through this central point, making the network dependent on its proper operation. If the central device fails, all communications stop, which makes star topologies vulnerable to single points of failure. While star topology is easy to install and manage, and faults are easy to detect, it lacks the redundancy of mesh. Individual nodes can fail without affecting others, but the central hub remains a critical failure point. Therefore, star topology cannot provide the high level of fault tolerance that mesh networks offer, especially in large-scale or mission-critical environments where uninterrupted communication is essential.
Ring topology connects each node to exactly two others, forming a closed loop. Data travels in one or both directions around the ring until it reaches its destination. While ring topology can offer predictable performance and simple cabling, it is inherently less fault-tolerant. A single break in the ring can interrupt communication unless dual-ring configurations or bypass mechanisms are implemented. Even with these enhancements, managing failures is more complex than in mesh topologies. Rings are generally suitable for smaller, controlled networks where high redundancy is not a primary requirement. However, for networks that require continuous availability and alternative routing paths, the ring design is less optimal than mesh.
Bus topology connects all devices to a single backbone cable, with terminators at each end. Data travels along the backbone, and each device monitors the medium to determine if traffic is addressed to it. Bus topology is simple and inexpensive for small networks, but it is highly susceptible to failures. If the main backbone cable fails, the entire network can become inoperable. Additionally, as the number of devices increases, collisions and performance issues arise. Bus topology does not provide redundancy, and there are no alternative paths for data if the main cable is compromised. Its simplicity comes at the cost of resilience, making it inappropriate for critical applications where uptime is essential.
Mesh topology’s redundancy is the primary reason it is widely used in high-availability network designs. Multiple connections between nodes allow traffic to route around failures without impacting overall network performance. Protocols such as OSPF, IS-IS, or BGP can work with mesh networks to determine the most efficient path for data, ensuring continuous connectivity. This is particularly important for backbone networks, data centers, and industrial control systems where downtime is costly or dangerous. By providing alternate routes, mesh topology prevents single points of failure from isolating any device, which is a significant advantage over star, ring, and bus topologies.
Full mesh networks maximize redundancy and fault tolerance because every node has a direct connection to every other node. While cabling and installation costs are high, the benefits include minimal disruption from failures, efficient traffic distribution, and predictable latency. Partial mesh reduces complexity and cost while maintaining critical redundancy. In partial mesh, core devices maintain multiple connections, while peripheral devices may have fewer links, balancing resilience with feasibility. The flexibility of mesh topology allows network designers to tailor redundancy according to the organization’s reliability requirements, budget, and physical constraints.
Mesh networks also improve network performance in addition to reliability. By providing multiple paths, congestion can be minimized as traffic can take less-utilized routes. Load can be distributed evenly, preventing bottlenecks that could affect applications sensitive to latency, such as VoIP, video conferencing, or financial transactions. In contrast, star, ring, and bus topologies have more limited path options, which can concentrate traffic on a single link and lead to performance degradation under heavy load. The ability of mesh networks to balance traffic dynamically enhances both reliability and efficiency.
Security is another consideration. In mesh networks, the failure of one link does not create vulnerabilities for overall network communication, and alternative paths can maintain connectivity while compromised nodes are isolated. This redundancy can also support high availability clustering and disaster recovery plans, ensuring that critical services remain operational during failures or attacks. In star or bus topologies, a single central failure could allow for easier exploitation, highlighting the resilience advantages inherent in mesh design.
In conclusion, the correct answer is mesh topology because it provides inherent redundancy through multiple interconnections. Star topology depends heavily on a central device and lacks full redundancy, ring topology can be disrupted by a single link failure, and bus topology has no alternate paths, making each unsuitable for maximum reliability. Mesh networks deliver high availability, fault tolerance, performance optimization, and scalability, making them the preferred choice for enterprise backbones, critical applications, and environments requiring uninterrupted connectivity.
Question 51
Which protocol is commonly used to securely manage and configure network devices remotely over an encrypted channel?
A) Telnet
B) SSH
C) HTTP
D) SNMP
Answer: B) SSH
Explanation:
SSH is a protocol designed to securely manage and configure network devices remotely. It provides an encrypted communication channel that protects authentication credentials, commands, and transmitted data from eavesdropping or tampering. SSH replaces insecure protocols such as Telnet, which send sensitive information in plaintext and are vulnerable to interception and man-in-the-middle attacks. When an administrator initiates a session using SSH, the client and server first negotiate encryption keys and authentication methods. Once the secure channel is established, all subsequent communication occurs over this encrypted path. SSH supports both password-based and key-based authentication, with key-based methods being stronger and more resistant to brute-force attacks. The protocol is widely implemented in routers, switches, firewalls, and servers for command-line administration, configuration, and troubleshooting, providing security and accountability in enterprise networks.
Telnet, by contrast, provides remote access to devices but transmits all data in plaintext. While Telnet allows administrators to perform similar tasks as SSH, the lack of encryption exposes credentials and commands to interception. An attacker monitoring the network can easily capture login information and sensitive commands, making Telnet unsuitable for modern networks that require secure management. Although Telnet may still be found in legacy systems or isolated lab environments, it is not recommended for production networks due to its inherent insecurity.
HTTP is primarily a protocol for transferring hypertext over the web. While it allows web-based access to network devices or management consoles, it does not inherently provide strong encryption. Unless combined with TLS/SSL to form HTTPS, communication over HTTP is sent in plaintext and vulnerable to eavesdropping. Even when secured with HTTPS, HTTP focuses on web content delivery rather than specialized remote command and control for network devices. Its role in management is limited to web interfaces and dashboards rather than direct command-line configuration through a secure, standardized channel.
SNMP is a network management protocol that provides monitoring and configuration capabilities for devices. It allows administrators to collect performance metrics, receive alerts, and adjust settings on supported equipment. SNMPv3 adds security features, including authentication and encryption, but the protocol is designed more for monitoring than for direct remote configuration or command-line administration. While SNMP can change device settings under certain conditions, it does not provide the full interactive capabilities of a terminal session that SSH offers. SNMP’s communication model is agent-based and does not support interactive command execution in the same way as SSH.
The correct answer is SSH because it provides both secure encryption and interactive management. Administrators can connect to devices, issue commands, change configurations, and manage systems securely over potentially untrusted networks. SSH encrypts all traffic, including usernames, passwords, commands, and outputs, ensuring that sensitive information cannot be intercepted. Key-based authentication enhances security further by allowing public-private key pairs, making it extremely difficult for attackers to gain unauthorized access. SSH also supports tunneling and port forwarding, enabling secure access to other services on the network while maintaining encryption.
SSH sessions can be logged and audited, providing accountability and traceability for administrative actions. This feature is essential for compliance with industry standards and security policies, particularly in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, or government operations. SSH also supports session multiplexing and can integrate with network automation tools to facilitate large-scale deployment and configuration management. Its versatility allows it to manage a wide range of devices, from traditional routers and switches to modern cloud-hosted virtual appliances.
Unlike Telnet or HTTP, SSH does not expose credentials or commands in plaintext, making it far superior for secure administration. Unlike SNMP, SSH provides real-time, interactive control and configuration of devices rather than primarily monitoring. These distinctions make SSH the de facto standard for secure network management. The combination of encryption, authentication, auditing, and command-line interaction ensures that administrators can manage networks safely, reliably, and efficiently. SSH’s wide adoption and robust security features make it indispensable in modern networking practices, replacing older, less secure protocols and providing a foundation for secure operations across enterprise networks, data centers, and remote environments.
Question 52
Which type of IP address is automatically assigned to a device when a DHCP server is unavailable?
A) Static IP
B) APIPA
C) Public IP
D) Reserved IP
Answer: B) APIPA
Explanation:
APIPA, or Automatic Private IP Addressing, is a mechanism used by devices to automatically assign themselves an IP address when a DHCP server is unavailable. APIPA addresses allow devices to communicate with other local hosts on the same subnet, but do not provide internet access. These addresses are typically within the 169.254.0.0/16 range. When a device fails to receive a lease from a DHCP server, it chooses an available APIPA address randomly and tests it to ensure no other device is using the same address. If the address is available, the device assigns it to its interface. APIPA allows basic local network connectivity in scenarios where DHCP infrastructure is temporarily unavailable, helping users and administrators detect network issues without losing the ability to connect to other local systems. Devices may periodically attempt to contact the DHCP server while using APIPA to obtain a proper configuration.
A static IP address is manually assigned by an administrator and does not rely on DHCP or APIPA. Static addresses remain fixed and provide consistent network identification, which is crucial for servers, printers, or other infrastructure devices. Unlike APIPA, static IPs require administrative intervention and do not automatically adapt to network changes or handle DHCP server unavailability. Static IP assignment cannot occur without prior configuration and does not provide automatic local connectivity in the absence of DHCP.
A public IP address is routable on the Internet and assigned either by an ISP or a DHCP server. Public addresses must be unique globally to ensure proper internet routing. APIPA addresses, in contrast, are private and non-routable outside the local subnet. They serve only local communications and cannot access external networks or resources without proper DHCP configuration or NAT translation. Public IP addresses are assigned intentionally and are not part of the automatic fallback process that APIPA provides.
A reserved IP is a DHCP mechanism where a specific device is guaranteed to receive the same IP address from the DHCP pool based on its MAC address. This ensures consistency in network management for critical devices. APIPA does not provide reserved addresses. Instead, it offers temporary self-assigned addresses to maintain local connectivity when DHCP fails. Reserved IPs require a functioning DHCP server to operate, whereas APIPA is a fallback mechanism for when the DHCP server is unreachable.
The correct answer is APIPA because it provides automatic IP addressing in the absence of DHCP, maintaining local network communication. It uses the predefined 169.254.x.x range, ensuring devices can continue interacting while administrators troubleshoot DHCP issues. APIPA includes conflict detection and retry mechanisms to minimize address collisions. This approach ensures users can still perform local tasks, such as accessing shared files or printers, even if the DHCP service is temporarily unavailable. It is a built-in, automatic feature in most modern operating systems and enhances network resilience during temporary failures.
Question 53
Which network device is used to segment a network into multiple collision domains while maintaining a single broadcast domain?
A) Hub
B) Switch
C) Router
D) Bridge
Answer: B) Switch
Explanation:
A switch is a network device designed to segment a network into multiple collision domains while maintaining a single broadcast domain. By doing this, it reduces collisions on each segment, enhancing overall network performance. Each port on a switch represents a separate collision domain, allowing multiple devices to communicate simultaneously without interfering with one another. When a device sends a frame to the switch, the switch examines the destination MAC address and forwards the frame only to the appropriate port instead of broadcasting it to all devices. This intelligent forwarding reduces unnecessary traffic, improves bandwidth utilization, and lowers the likelihood of collisions compared to hubs, which transmit frames to every connected device. Switches operate primarily at Layer 2 of the OSI model, managing MAC addresses and forwarding frames efficiently. Many modern switches also include Layer 3 capabilities, allowing routing between VLANs while still maintaining collision domain segmentation.
Hubs are simple network devices that operate at Layer 1 and do not segment a network into collision domains. A hub retransmits any incoming signal to all connected ports, creating a single collision domain. Every device attached to a hub competes for the same bandwidth, which leads to frequent collisions and degraded network performance. Hubs are largely obsolete in modern networks due to these limitations, as they cannot intelligently manage traffic or provide segmentation, making them unsuitable for environments requiring high efficiency.
Routers operate primarily at Layer 3 of the OSI model, directing traffic between different networks. They create separate broadcast domains by default and manage IP-level routing decisions. While routers prevent broadcast traffic from crossing network segments, they do not inherently segment collision domains at the data link layer in the same way a switch does. Routers are essential for inter-network communication, such as connecting different subnets or connecting a LAN to the internet, but they are not the primary tool for managing collision domains within a single LAN.
Bridges are devices that connect multiple network segments and operate at Layer 2, similar to switches. Bridges can reduce collisions by segmenting networks, but they are generally limited to connecting only two segments and lack the port density and efficiency of modern switches. They forward frames based on MAC addresses and can filter traffic to reduce unnecessary transmissions. However, bridges have largely been replaced by switches, which provide multiple collision domains with significantly greater scalability and performance.
The correct answer is a switch because it efficiently manages collision domains, allowing each port to act independently while maintaining a unified broadcast domain. This design prevents network congestion caused by collisions, increases throughput, and supports simultaneous communication between devices. Switches maintain MAC address tables to forward frames intelligently, providing a more organized and efficient network compared to hubs or bridges. Modern managed switches also support VLANs, further enhancing network segmentation without compromising collision domain efficiency. By balancing these capabilities, switches serve as the backbone of most LAN infrastructures, optimizing performance and reliability in both small and large networks.
Question 54
Which protocol ensures data integrity, authentication, and non-repudiation for email communications?
A) POP3
B) IMAP
C) S/MIME
D) SMTP
Answer: C) S/MIME
Explanation:
S/MIME is a protocol that ensures data integrity, authentication, and non-repudiation for email communications. It provides encryption and digital signatures to secure email content from unauthorized access, alteration, and forgery. By using certificates issued by trusted authorities, S/MIME enables users to verify the identity of senders, ensuring messages originate from legitimate sources. Digital signatures ensure that the content has not been tampered with in transit, protecting against modification or forgery. Encryption prevents unauthorized recipients from reading the content, maintaining confidentiality. S/MIME also supports key management and certificate verification, allowing organizations to implement secure email practices across internal and external communication channels. It is widely used in corporate, governmental, and financial sectors to protect sensitive information and comply with regulatory standards.
POP3 is a protocol designed to retrieve emails from a server to a client. It downloads messages, usually removing them from the server unless configured otherwise. POP3 does not provide encryption, digital signatures, or mechanisms for verifying sender authenticity. While secure variants using TLS exist, POP3 alone cannot ensure data integrity or non-repudiation. Its primary function is message retrieval, not protection of the content or verification of origin.
IMAP allows users to access and manage emails on a server without downloading them, supporting multiple devices and folder synchronization. Like POP3, IMAP can use encryption for secure transmission, but it does not inherently provide authentication of senders, digital signatures, or mechanisms to ensure message integrity. IMAP focuses on message storage and retrieval efficiency rather than security for content and origin verification.
SMTP is a protocol used to send emails between servers. While SMTP can transport messages efficiently and reliably, it does not natively provide encryption or authentication for the content. Secure SMTP variants using TLS can encrypt the transmission channel, but do not provide message-level authentication, integrity, or non-repudiation. SMTP alone cannot ensure that a message has not been altered or that the sender is genuine.
The correct answer is S/MIME because it combines encryption, digital signatures, and certificate-based authentication to ensure message confidentiality, integrity, and non-repudiation. Users can verify that emails come from legitimate sources, cannot be altered during transmission, and cannot be denied by the sender once signed. This level of security is essential for sensitive communications, regulatory compliance, and maintaining trust in email systems. S/MIME integrates seamlessly with standard email clients, providing end-to-end protection without disrupting normal workflows.
Question 55
Which type of network address allows devices to communicate on the same local subnet without requiring routing through a gateway?
A) Global IP
B) Private IP
C) Link-local IP
D) Broadcast IP
Answer: C) Link-local IP
Explanation:
A link-local IP address allows devices to communicate on the same local subnet without requiring a router or default gateway. These addresses are automatically assigned to interfaces when a device does not have a manually configured IP or cannot obtain one via DHCP. Link-local addresses exist within a reserved range—typically 169.254.0.0/16 for IPv4—and are unique to the local link. They enable immediate local communication between devices for configuration, troubleshooting, or basic local services. Operating without a central DHCP server or other infrastructure, link-local addressing ensures that essential network operations such as peer discovery, file sharing, or device management remain functional within the local network segment. Devices using link-local addresses cannot reach external networks unless additional routing is configured, as these addresses are not routable.
Global IP addresses are routable across the internet and are assigned by ISPs or through DHCP to ensure uniqueness globally. Unlike link-local addresses, they enable communication beyond the local subnet. Link-local addressing is temporary and confined to local communication, whereas global addresses support wide-area and Internet connectivity. Global addresses require proper configuration to avoid conflicts and routing issues, while link-local addresses automatically provide immediate local connectivity.
Private IP addresses are reserved for internal networks, such as 10.0.0.0/8, 172.16.0.0/12, and 192.168.0.0/16. They require a gateway or NAT device to communicate with external networks. While private addresses are widely used in LANs, communication across subnets or with the Internet depends on routing. Link-local addresses, in contrast, do not require routing and function independently within the local segment.
Broadcast IP addresses are used to send messages to all devices on a subnet simultaneously. They are not used for point-to-point communication between two devices and are not automatically assigned for local communication. Broadcast addresses serve a different purpose and cannot replace link-local functionality.
The correct answer is link-local IP because it provides immediate, automatic communication within the local subnet without a gateway or router. It enables device discovery, troubleshooting, and basic networking in the absence of DHCP or manual configuration. Link-local addressing is a critical feature for modern networks, ensuring devices can self-configure and communicate reliably within a local segment.
Question 56
Which protocol is used to translate private IP addresses to a public IP address for internet access?
A) NAT
B) DHCP
C) DNS
D) ICMP
Answer: A) NAT
Explanation:
NAT, or Network Address Translation, is used to translate private IP addresses to a public IP address so that devices on a local network can access the internet. Private IP addresses, as defined by RFC 1918, are not routable on the public Internet. NAT enables multiple devices to share a single public IP, conserving address space. When a device sends a packet to the Internet, NAT modifies the source IP to a public address and keeps track of the translation using a NAT table. Incoming responses are mapped back to the correct internal device. NAT also provides a basic layer of security by hiding internal IP addresses from external networks.
DHCP assigns IP addresses to devices automatically, but does not translate them for internet access. DNS resolves domain names into IP addresses but does not modify IP addresses for routing. ICMP is used for diagnostics and error messages, such as ping, but does not perform address translation.
NAT is essential in IPv4 networks due to the limited address space. Without NAT, each device would require a unique public IP, which is often impractical. NAT can be implemented as static (one-to-one mapping) or dynamic (many-to-one or port-based), providing flexibility for network design. By performing address translation and mapping, NAT allows seamless communication with external networks while maintaining the internal addressing scheme.
Question 57
Which protocol is used to automatically discover neighboring devices and their capabilities on a network?
A) CDP
B) ARP
C) RARP
D) DHCP
Answer: A) CDP
Explanation:
CDP, or Cisco Discovery Protocol, is used to automatically discover directly connected devices and their capabilities on a network. It allows network administrators to obtain information about device type, IP address, operating system, and port details. CDP runs at Layer 2 and operates independently of IP, so it can work even when network layer protocols are not configured.
ARP resolves IP addresses to MAC addresses, enabling packet delivery within a subnet, but it does not provide detailed device information. RARP allows a device to discover its IP address from a MAC address, but it is rarely used today and does not report neighbor capabilities. DHCP assigns IP addresses, but it is unrelated to discovering device information.
CDP helps administrators map the network topology, verify connections, and troubleshoot issues efficiently. It simplifies management by providing detailed device information without requiring manual documentation. By leveraging CDP, organizations can maintain up-to-date network knowledge, especially in complex or large environments.
Question 58
Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for establishing, managing, and terminating sessions between applications?
A) Transport
B) Session
C) Presentation
D) Application
Answer: B) Session
Explanation:
The session layer, Layer 5 of the OSI model, is responsible for establishing, managing, and terminating communication sessions between applications. It provides mechanisms for session control, including synchronization, checkpointing, and dialog management.
The transport layer ensures reliable delivery and error correction, handling data segmentation and reassembly. The presentation layer formats, encrypts, or compresses data for proper interpretation between systems. The application layer provides network services directly to end-users, such as email or file transfer.
The session layer ensures that two applications can maintain an ongoing exchange, managing connections and providing recovery points if interruptions occur. It supports full-duplex or half-duplex communication and is essential for applications requiring continuous interaction, such as video conferencing or database transactions. By handling session setup, management, and termination, it ensures reliable and organized communication between applications.
Question 59
Which type of wireless security protocol uses a dynamic encryption key and is more secure than WEP?
A) WPA2
B) WPA
C) WEP
D) TKIP
Answer: B) WPA
Explanation:
WPA, or Wi-Fi Protected Access, is a wireless security protocol designed to replace WEP and address its vulnerabilities. WPA uses TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) to generate dynamic encryption keys for each session, improving security and making key recovery attacks more difficult.
WEP uses static keys, which can be easily cracked. WPA2 improves upon WPA by using AES encryption, but WPA introduced dynamic key management as an initial improvement over WEP. TKIP is a component of WPA that handles encryption, ensuring that the same key is not reused across multiple packets.
WPA’s dynamic key feature increases security against eavesdropping and unauthorized access. It also supports mutual authentication between devices and access points, providing better protection for wireless networks. While WPA2 is more secure, WPA remains significantly stronger than WEP due to dynamic keying and integrity checks.
Question 60
Which IP address type is intended to reach all devices on a local network segment simultaneously?
A) Unicast
B) Multicast
C) Broadcast
D) Anycast
Answer: C) Broadcast
Explanation:
A broadcast IP address is designed to reach all devices on a local network segment simultaneously. When a device sends a packet to a broadcast address, all hosts in the subnet receive and process the message. This is useful for tasks such as ARP requests, DHCP discovery, and network announcements.
Unicast addresses target a single device. Multicast addresses target a group of subscribed devices, not all hosts. Anycast addresses are delivered to the nearest device among a group of potential recipients. Broadcast, by definition, sends data to every device in the subnet.
Broadcasts are limited to the local network segment and are not routable beyond routers. They enable essential services and discovery protocols to function efficiently within a subnet. While excessive broadcasting can create congestion, controlled use ensures devices can communicate important information to all nodes simultaneously, supporting network operations and discovery mechanisms.