N10-008 CompTIA Network+ Exam Questions and Answers

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.

 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 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.

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.

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

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

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.

 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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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

 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

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

 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

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

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

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

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 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

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

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

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 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

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

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.

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 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

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

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

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/

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

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.

Role separation is a security principle that involves dividing the tasks and privileges for a specific business process among multiple users. This reduces the risk of fraud and errors, as no one user has complete control over the process. In the scenario, there are three employees who perform very distinct functions on the server, which is an example of role separation. References: https://hyperproof.io/resource/segregation-of-duties/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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/

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

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 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

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

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

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

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

On the first exhibit, the layout should be as follows

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Exhibit 2 as follows

Access Point Name AP2

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Exhibit 3 as follows

Access Point Name AP3

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Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

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

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

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/

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.

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

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

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/

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

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.

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.

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/

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

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/

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

 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 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 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

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.

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.

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

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/

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

• 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

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 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

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

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.

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)

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

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.

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/

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

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

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.

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 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

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

Site-to-site VPN provides the best security for connecting a new datacenter to an old one because it creates a secure tunnel between the two locations, protecting data in transit. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Chapter 5: Network Security.

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

 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

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

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.

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 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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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/

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

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

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

Two-factor authentication (2FA) is a method of verifying a user’s identity by requiring two pieces of evidence, such as something the user knows (e.g., a password) and something the user has (e.g., a token or a smartphone). 2FA adds an extra layer of security that makes it harder for hackers to access a user’s account by brute-force programs. Complex passwords are passwords that are long, random, and use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and symbols. Complex passwords are more resistant to brute-force attacks than simple or common passwords. References: https://partners.comptia.org/docs/default- source/resources/comptia-network-n10-008-exam-objectives-(2-0), https://www.csoonline.com/article/3225913/what-is-two-factor-authentication-2fa-how-to-enable-it-and-why-you-should.html, https://www.howtogeek.com/195430/how-to-create-a-strong-password-and-remember-it/

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.

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

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/

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

 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

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.

An Independent Basic Service Set (IBSS) is a type of wireless network that does not require an access point or a wired network. An IBSS allows wireless devices to communicate directly with each other using ad hoc mode. An IBSS is also known as an ad hoc network or a peer-to-peer network. A network technician can configure an IBSS to connect two laptops together and transfer files.

References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 1.4: Explain the properties and characteristics of TCP/IP

• The question asks about the best configuration for the WLAN being tested, which involves channel bonding on an 802.11ac AP. Channel bonding is a technique that combines two or more adjacent channels into a wider channel to increase the bandwidth and throughput of the wireless network1.
• The answer is to set up the AP to perform a dynamic selection of the frequency according to regulatory requirements. This means that the AP will automatically choose the best available channel and adjust the transmit power based on the local regulations and the interference level2. This way, the AP can avoid using the channels that are occupied by the government radio system, which may have higher priority and authority over the spectrum3.
• Upgrading the equipment to an AP that supports manual configuration of the EIRP power settings is not the best solution, because it does not address the channel selection issue. EIRP stands for Effective Isotropic Radiated Power, which is the total power radiated by the antenna in all directions. Manual configuration of the EIRP may allow the administrator to increase or decrease the signal strength, but it may also violate the regulatory limits or cause more interference with other devices.
• Switching to 802.11n, disabling channel auto-selection, and enforcing channel bonding on the configuration is also not the best solution, because it may degrade the performance and compatibility of the WLAN. 802.11n is an older standard than 802.11ac, which has lower maximum data rates and fewer features. Disabling channel auto-selection may prevent the AP from adapting to the changing environment and finding the optimal channel. Enforcing channel bonding may increase the bandwidth, but it may also increase the interference and reduce the number of available channels.
• Deactivating the band 5GHz to avoid interference with the government radio is not the best solution, because it may limit the functionality and capacity of the WLAN. The 5GHz band has more channels and less congestion than the 2.4GHz band, which makes it suitable for high-performance applications and devices. Deactivating the band 5GHz may force the WLAN to use only the 2.4GHz band, which may reduce the speed, range, and reliability of the wireless network. References:
• Channel Bonding
• Dynamic Frequency Selection
• Radio Regulations
• [EIRP Calculator]
• [EIRP and Regulatory Domains]
• [802.11n vs 802.11ac]
• [Channel Auto-Selection]
• [Channel Bonding and Interference]
• [5GHz vs 2.4GHz]
• [5GHz Band Deactivation]

A technique used to adjust resources dynamically for a virtual web server under variable loads is called auto-scaling. Auto-scaling automatically increases or decreases the number of instances of a virtual web server in response to changes in demand, ensuring that the right amount of resources are available to handle incoming traffic. This can help to improve the availability and performance of a web application, as well as reduce costs by avoiding the need to provision and maintain excess capacity.

nmap is the tool that would help identify which ports are open on the remote file server. nmap stands for Network Mapper, which is a free and open-source tool that can perform various network scanning and discovery tasks. nmap can help identify which ports are open on a remote device by sending probes or packets to different ports and analyzing the responses. nmap can also provide information about the operating system, services, versions, firewalls, or vulnerabilities of the remote device. nmap can be useful for network administrators, security professionals, or hackers to monitor, audit, or attack network devices. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], Nmap - Free Security Scanner For Network Exploration & Security Audits

The document that would most likely be used to review disaster recovery information for a system is a business continuity plan (BCP). A BCP is a document that outlines the procedures and resources needed to maintain or resume critical business functions in the event of a disaster or disruption. A BCP typically includes a disaster recovery plan (DRP), which is a subset of the BCP that focuses on restoring IT systems and data after a disaster. A BCP also covers other aspects of business continuity, such as risk assessment, business impact analysis, emergency response, crisis management, and testing. References: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 346; The Official CompTIA Network+ Student Guide (Exam N10-008), page 13-9.

 ICMP, or Internet Control Message Protocol, is part of the Network layer (Layer 3) in the OSI model. It operates at a level that handles the communication between different networks. ICMP is used for sending error messages and operational information indicating the status of the network

• A redundant cluster of devices is a group of devices that can provide backup or failover functionality in case of a hardware failure or a network attack.
• Layer 2 devices operate at the data link layer of the OSI model and are responsible for forwarding frames based on MAC addresses. They include switches, bridges, and NICs.
• Multiple routers are not Layer 2 devices, but Layer 3 devices that operate at the network layer of the OSI model and are responsible for forwarding packets based on IP addresses. Therefore, option A is incorrect.
• Multiple switches are Layer 2 devices that can provide redundancy and scalability in the network by using protocols such as spanning tree, link aggregation, and VLANs. They can also support Layer 3 functions such as routing and inter-VLAN routing. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.
• Multiple firewalls are not Layer 2 devices, but Layer 4 devices that operate at the transport layer of the OSI model and are responsible for filtering traffic based on ports and protocols. They can also provide security services such as NAT, VPN, and IDS. Therefore, option C is incorrect.
• Multiple budges is a typo and should be multiple bridges. Bridges are Layer 2 devices that can divide a network into segments and reduce collisions. However, they are less efficient and less intelligent than switches, and they are rarely used in modern networks. Therefore, option D is incorrect.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Devices, pages 47-48, 51-52, 55-56, 59-60.
• Professor Messer’s Network+ Video Course, Section 1.1: Network Devices, videos 1.1.1 - 1.1.4, 1.1.6, 1.1.7.
• Cisco Press: Fully Redundant Layer 2 and Layer 3 Designs

The difference between piggybacking and tailgaiting is that with piggybacking, the person is willfully and intentionally letting you in. In this particular case, the person caught the door before it closed, so it is tailgating.

Tailgating is a physical security attack that occurs when an unauthorized person follows an authorized person through a secured door or gate without their knowledge or consent. Tailgating can allow an attacker to bypass access control mechanisms and gain entry to restricted areas or resources. Tailgating can also pose a safety risk for the authorized person and other occupants of the facility.

Piggybacking is a physical security attack that occurs when an unauthorized person follows an authorized person through a secured door or gate with their knowledge or consent. Piggybacking can also allow an attacker to bypass access control mechanisms and gain entry to restricted areas or resources. Piggybacking can also violate security policies and compromise the accountability of the authorized person.

Shoulder surfing is a physical security attack that occurs when an unauthorized person observes or records an authorized person’s confidential information, such as passwords, PINs, or credit card numbers. Shoulder surfing can allow an attacker to steal credentials and access sensitive data or systems. Shoulder surfing can also violate privacy and confidentiality rights of the authorized person.

Phishing is a cyber security attack that occurs when an unauthorized person sends fraudulent emails or messages that appear to come from legitimate sources, such as banks, companies, or government agencies. Phishing can trick recipients into clicking on malicious links, opening malicious attachments, or providing personal or financial information. Phishing can allow an attacker to install malware, steal credentials, or perform identity theft. Phishing does not involve physical access to secured doors or gates.

https://www.practicalnetworking.net/stand-alone/routing-between-vlans/#:~:text=A%20router%20will%20perform%20the,to%20communicate%20with%20one%20another .

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

Port mirroring is a feature that allows a switch to copy the traffic from one or more ports to another port for monitoring or analysis purposes. Port mirroring can help a network administrator to troubleshoot network problems, detect security threats, or optimize network performance. Port mirroring can be configured on most switches using the command-line interface (CLI) or a graphical user interface (GUI).

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Exam Objectives, page 51
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, Chapter 11: Switching Technologies
• Port Mirroring - CompTIA Network+ Certification (N10-008): The Total Course [Video]1
• CompTIA Network+ N10-005: 2.1 – Port Mirroring - Professor Messer IT Certification Training Courses2
• CompTIA Network+ N10-005: 1.4 – Port Mirroring3

A helper address is an IP address that is configured on a router interface to forward DHCP broadcast messages to a DHCP server on another LAN. A DHCP broadcast message is a message that a workstation sends when it needs to obtain an IP address from a DHCP server. Since broadcast messages are not routed across different networks, a helper address is needed to relay the DHCP broadcast message to the DHCP server on another network. References: https://www.comptia.org/training/books/network-n10-008-study-guide (page 199)

MFA stands for Multi-Factor Authentication, which is a method of verifying the identity of a user by requiring two or more pieces of evidence that belong to different categories: something the user knows, something the user has, or something the user is. A password is something the user knows, and it is usually combined with another factor such as a PIN (Personal Identification Number) or a hard token (a physical device that generates a one-time code) that the user has. A favorite color or a mother’s maiden name are not suitable for MFA, as they are also something the user knows and can be easily guessed or compromised.

References

• 1: Multi-Factor Authentication – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 3.1
• 2: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 13
• 3: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 250
• 4: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Subnetting Quiz, question 14

An acceptable use policy (AUP) is a set of rules that outline the proper and improper use of an organization's resources, such as its videoconferencing solution. An AUP can provide guidance to employees about what is expected of them when using the organization's videoconferencing solution, including restricting non-business access to it.

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

Tailgating is a type of physical security attack where an unauthorized person follows an authorized person into a restricted area without their consent or knowledge. Tailgating can allow an attacker to bypass security measures and gain access to sensitive information or resources. In this scenario, the technician experienced tailgating when the unknown individual walked in behind the technician without speaking. Piggybacking is similar to tailgating, but it involves the consent or cooperation of the authorized person. Evil twin is a type of wireless network attack where an attacker sets up a rogue access point that mimics a legitimate one. On-path is a type of network attack where an attacker intercepts and modifies traffic between two parties.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 7.0 (N10-007), Objective 3.2: Given a scenario, use appropriate network hardening techniques.

• Throughput is the measure of how much data can be transferred over a network in a given time period1.
• To test the throughput of a network connection, a network administrator needs a tool that can generate and measure traffic between two endpoints2.
• iPerf is a command-line tool that can create TCP or UDP streams and measure the bandwidth, delay, jitter, and packet loss of the network23.
• iPerf can be used to test the performance of various network protocols, such as metro Ethernet, which is a type of Ethernet network that spans metropolitan areas and provides high-speed connectivity to businesses and organizations.
• iPerf can also be used to verify that the network connection meets the service level agreement (SLA), which is a contract that defines the quality and availability of the network service provided by a vendor or a carrier.
• Ping is a tool that can test the reachability and latency of a network device by sending and receiving ICMP echo packets. Ping cannot measure the throughput of a network connection, as it only tests the round-trip time of a single packet.
• NetFlow is a protocol that can collect and analyze network traffic data, such as source and destination IP addresses, ports, protocols, and bytes transferred. NetFlow can provide information about the volume and type of network traffic, but it cannot measure the throughput of a specific network connection, as it does not generate or monitor traffic streams.
• Netstat is a tool that can display information about the active and listening network connections, such as protocol, local and foreign address, and state. Netstat cannot measure the throughput of a network connection, as it only shows the status of the existing connections. References:
• 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 1: Introduction to Networks, p. 14
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 16: Network Optimization, p. 649
• 3: iPerf - The ultimate speed test tool for TCP, UDP and SCTP
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 3: Ethernet Networks, p. 105
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 15: Network Monitoring, p. 611
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 4: IP Addressing, p. 143
• : Ping (networking utility) - Wikipedia
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 15: Network Monitoring, p. 615
• : NetFlow - Wikipedia
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 16: Network Optimization, p. 650
• : [netstat - Wikipedia]

• Change management is an IT practice that aims to minimize disruptions to IT services while making changes to critical systems and services12.
• A change is defined as adding, modifying, or removing anything that could have a direct or indirect effect on services1.
• Change management involves planning, testing, communicating, and implementing changes in a controlled and coordinated manner2.
• Change management can help prevent network outages and other incidents by ensuring that changes are properly assessed, approved, and documented before they are executed2.
• Incident response, on the other hand, is the process of detecting and responding to security incidents, such as cyberattacks or data breaches3.
• Incident response focuses on the technical aspects of analyzing and containing an incident, while incident management deals with the broader impact of an incident on the business, such as communications, media handling, escalations, and reporting3.
• Standard operating procedure (SOP) is a set of instructions that describes how to perform a routine or repetitive task.
• SOPs are useful for ensuring consistency, quality, and compliance in various operations, but they are not specific to change management.
• System life cycle is a model that describes the phases of development, operation, and maintenance of a system, such as a software application or a hardware device.
• System life cycle can help guide the design, testing, deployment, and improvement of a system, but it does not address the issues of change management, such as minimizing disruptions and risks.
• Therefore, the best document for the network manager to create to prevent future network outages caused by firmware upgrades is a change management policy.

References:

• Change management types | Atlassian
• Incident Management vs. Incident Response — What’s the Difference? - DZone
• 10 Top change management best practices | Atlassian
• [What is a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and How to Write It]

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.

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

Content filtering is a technique that blocks or allows access to certain types of web content, based on predefined criteria or policies. Content filtering can be used to comply with the cease-and-desist order by preventing users from accessing torrent sites or downloading torrent files, which are often used for illegal file sharing or piracy. Content filtering can also protect the network from malware, phishing, or inappropriate content. References: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide - O’Reilly Media, Chapter 14: Securing a Basic Network, page 520

Network security groups are cloud components that can filter inbound and outbound traffic between cloud resources based on rules and priorities. Network security groups can be applied to virtual machines, subnets, or network interfaces to control the network access and security. Network security groups can allow or deny traffic based on the source, destination, port, and protocol of the packets. Network security groups are different from NAT gateways, service endpoints, and virtual private clouds, which are other cloud components that have different functions and purposes.

References

• 1: Network Security Groups – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 3.2
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 329-330
• 3: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Subnetting Quiz, question 17
• 4: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Practice Test, question 10

• The OSI model is a conceptual framework that divides the network communication process into seven layers, each with a specific function and protocol4.
• The session layer is the fifth layer of the OSI model, and it is responsible for establishing, maintaining, and terminating sessions between applications on different devices45.
• A session is a logical connection that allows two or more applications to exchange data for a certain period of time5.
• For example, when two users on a LAN establish a video call, the session layer coordinates the initiation, synchronization, and termination of the call, using protocols such as SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) or H.32356.
• The session layer also provides services such as authentication, authorization, encryption, and checkpointing5.
• The other layers of the OSI model have different roles in the network communication process, such as:
• 4: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 1: Introduction to Networks, pp. 22-29
• 5: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 11: Network Services, pp. 443-444
• 6: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, 1st Edition, Chapter 11: Network Services, p. 452

BGP stands for Border Gateway Protocol, and it is a routing protocol that is used to exchange routing information between different autonomous systems (AS) on the Internet. An AS is a network or a group of networks that are under the same administrative control and share a common routing policy. BGP is used to create routes between local area networks and Internet service providers (ISPs), as well as between different ISPs. BGP is considered an exterior gateway protocol (EGP), as opposed to an interior gateway protocol (IGP) such as EIGRP, RIP, or OSPF, which are used to create routes within an AS. References: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, Chapter 3, Section 3.4

QIESTION NO: 770

Users are unable to access files on their department share located on flle_server 2. The network administrator has been tasked with validating routing between networks hosting workstation A and file server 2.

INSTRUCTIONS

Click on each router to review output, identity any Issues, and configure the appropriate solution

If at any time you would like to bring back the initial state of trie simulation, please click the reset All button;

Answer: See the solution configuration below in Explanation.

QoS stands for Quality of Service, which is a feature that allows you to prioritize network traffic based on the type of traffic, such as voice, video, data, or gaming. QoS can help improve the performance and reliability of critical applications by allocating more bandwidth and lower latency to them, while reducing the impact of less important or non-essential traffic1.

VPN stands for Virtual Private Network, which is a technology that creates a secure and encrypted connection between two or more devices over the Internet. VPN can help protect your privacy and data from hackers, ISPs, and government surveillance, as well as access geo-restricted content and services2.

CDN stands for Content Delivery Network, which is a network of servers that deliver web content to users based on their geographic location, the origin of the content, and the performance of the network. CDN can help improve the speed and availability of web content, such as images, videos, and scripts, by caching them on servers closer to the users3.

TTL stands for Time To Live, which is a value that determines how long a packet can stay in a network before it is discarded or returned. TTL can help prevent network congestion and loops by limiting the lifespan of packets that are lost, corrupted, or delayed4.

• A site survey is a process of testing and documenting the wireless coverage, performance, and interference in a specific area12.
• A site survey can help identify the optimal locations, orientations, and configurations for the wireless access points (APs), antennas, and other devices12.
• A site survey can also help troubleshoot issues related to latency and drops in coverage, by measuring the signal strength, noise level, channel utilization, and other factors that affect the wireless network quality12.
• A site survey is usually performed before deploying a wireless network, but it can also be done after the deployment to verify the network performance or to diagnose any problems12.
• A site survey is the FIRST step to troubleshoot the issues in this scenario, because it can provide a comprehensive overview of the wireless network status and reveal any potential causes of the issues12.
• The other options are not the first step to troubleshoot the issues, because they are either more specific or less effective than a site survey:

References:

• 1: Wireless Troubleshooting – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 5.4
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Full Course for Beginners - Wireless Troubleshooting
• 3: Channel Utilization - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 3.3
• 4: Cable Testing - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.3

Single-mode fiber is a type of optical fiber that has a small core diameter and allows only one mode of light to propagate. This reduces signal attenuation and increases transmission distance, making it suitable for long-distance communication networks. Single-mode fiber can carry data over thousands of kilometers without requiring repeaters or amplifiers. Single-mode fiber is also immune to electromagnetic interference and has a higher bandwidth than multimode fiber. Therefore, single-mode fiber is the best cable type for connecting sites on multiple continents. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], [Single-mode optical fiber - Wikipedia]

Single-mode fiber optic cable uses a single ray of light to transmit data. This allows it to achieve very low attenuation and high bandwidth.

Multimode fiber optic cable uses multiple rays of light to transmit data. This results in higher attenuation and lower bandwidth than single-mode cable.

Twisted pair copper cable uses two insulated copper wires to transmit data. It is less expensive than fiber optic cable, but it has higher attenuation and lower bandwidth.

When choosing a cable type for a long-distance application, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Attenuation: The amount of signal loss that occurs over the length of the cable.
• Bandwidth: The amount of data that can be transmitted over the cable per second.
• Cost: The cost of the cable and installation.

Single-mode fiber optic cable is the best choice for long-distance applications because it has the lowest attenuation and highest bandwidth of any cable type. However, it is also the most expensive cable type.

• A pinout is the arrangement of wires or pins in a cable or connector that determines how the signals are transmitted and received. A pinout can be either straight-through, which means that the wires or pins are connected in the same order on both ends of the cable or connector, or crossover, which means that the wires or pins are swapped on one end of the cable or connector.
• An incorrect pinout is a likely cause of the low data rate and port errors, because it can prevent the proper communication between the workstation and the switch. If the pinout is not compatible with the devices or the standards, the signals may be distorted, lost, or misinterpreted, resulting in errors and reduced performance. For example, if the workstation and the switch use different Ethernet standards, such as 10BASE-T and 1000BASE-T, they may require different pinouts to operate correctly. If the cable or connector has a mismatched pinout, the workstation and the switch may not be able to negotiate the optimal speed and duplex settings, and may fall back to a lower data rate, such as 100 full duplex, or experience many RX and TX errors.
• Therefore, option D is the most likely answer, as the incorrect pinout needs to be corrected to provide the optimal data rate and port performance. The technician needs to check the cable and connector types, standards, and pinouts, and replace them with the appropriate ones that match the workstation and the switch specifications.
• Option A is not a likely answer, as the bad switch ports would affect the connectivity and performance of any device that is connected to them, not just the workstation. If the technician moves the computer to another switchport and experiences the same issues, it indicates that the problem is not with the switch ports, but with the workstation, the cable, or the connector.
• Option B is also not a likely answer, as the duplex issues would affect the mode of data transmission between the workstation and the switch, not the data rate or the port errors. The duplex issues can be either half-duplex, which means that data can be transmitted in one direction at a time, or full-duplex, which means that data can be transmitted in both directions simultaneously. The duplex issues can cause collisions or interference if the workstation and the switch have different duplex settings, but they would not cause the data rate to drop to 100 full duplex, or cause many RX and TX errors.
• Option C is also not a likely answer, as the cable length would affect the signal strength and quality of the data transmission, not the data rate or the port errors. The cable length can cause attenuation, which is the loss of signal power over distance, or crosstalk, which is the interference from adjacent wires or cables. The cable length can cause the data transmission to be degraded or corrupted, but it would not cause the data rate to drop to 100 full duplex, or cause many RX and TX errors.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Devices and Technologies, Section 2.1: Network Cabling and Connectors, Page 661
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 2.1: Network Cabling and Connectors, Page 92
• What is a Pinout? | Definition and Examples3
• Ethernet Cable Pinouts - Cisco
• Troubleshooting Ethernet Cable Problems - Cisco

A camera is most likely to utilize PoE (Power over Ethernet). PoE is a technology that allows electrical power to be delivered over Ethernet cables. It is used to power a variety of devices, such as cameras, phones, access points, and other networking equipment.Cameras are particularly well-suited for PoE because they are often installed in locations where it is difficult or impossible to run electrical power. By using PoE, cameras can be powered directly over the Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power cables and outlets.Other devices, such as printers, hubs, and modems, are less likely to utilize PoE because they typically do not need to be powered over Ethernet. These devices are usually powered by AC (alternating current) power and are typically connected to a power outlet rather than an Ethernet cable.

• A hybrid cloud is a cloud deployment model that combines two or more different types of clouds, such as public, private, or community clouds12. A hybrid cloud allows an organization to leverage the benefits of both types of clouds, such as scalability, cost-efficiency, security, and control34.
• In the scenario, the company uses a private cloud to host its data center at its corporate office, which ensures greater control over the security of sensitive data. A private cloud is a cloud deployment model that is exclusively used by a single organization and is usually hosted on-premises or by a third-party provider12. A private cloud offers the highest level of security, privacy, and customization, but also requires more resources and maintenance34.
• During times when there are increased workloads, some of the company’s non-sensitive data is shifted to an external cloud provider, which is most likely a public cloud. A public cloud is a cloud deployment model that is shared by multiple organizations and is hosted and managed by a third-party provider12. A public cloud offers the lowest cost, highest scalability, and widest availability, but also has less security, privacy, and customization34.
• Therefore, the best answer is A. Hybrid, which describes a cloud deployment model that combines a private cloud and a public cloud.

References:

• 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 483
• 2: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 18
• 3: [What is Hybrid Cloud? - Definition from WhatIs.com]
• 4: [Hybrid Cloud Computing | CompTIA IT Certifications]

An incorrect default gateway can cause a PC to not connect to the internet, because the default gateway is the device that routes traffic from the local network to other networks. If the PC has a wrong default gateway configured, it may not be able to reach the internet router or the IT network router. The technician can ping the PC from the human resources router because they are on the same local network, but not from the IT network router because they are on different networks.

A duplicate IP address can cause a PC to not communicate with other devices on the same network, because the IP address is the unique identifier of a device on a network. If two devices have the same IP address, they may cause IP conflicts and packet loss. However, a duplicate IP address would not prevent the technician from pinging the PC from the human resources router, because they are on the same network.

A misconfigured RIP can cause a router to not learn or advertise routes to other networks, because RIP is a routing protocol that dynamically exchanges routing information between routers. If a router has a wrong RIP configuration, it may not be able to reach or share routes with other routers. However, a misconfigured RIP would not affect the PC’s connectivity to the internet, because the PC does not use RIP.

An improper VLAN assignment can cause a PC to not communicate with other devices on the same or different networks, because a VLAN is a logical segmentation of a network that isolates traffic based on criteria such as function, security, or performance. If a PC is assigned to a wrong VLAN, it may not be able to access the resources or services that it needs. However, an improper VLAN assignment would not prevent the technician from pinging the PC from the human resources router, because they are on the same physical network.

References

What is a Default Gateway?

What’s an IP Conflict and How Do You Resolve It?

What is RIP (Routing Information Protocol)?

What is a VLAN? How to Set Up a VLAN Network

CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Eighth Edition (Exam N10-008)

• Port 23 is used by Telnet, an insecure protocol that sends data in plain text over the network. Telnet should be replaced by SSH, which uses port 22 and encrypts the data.
• Port 69 is used by TFTP, an insecure protocol that transfers files without authentication or encryption. TFTP should be replaced by SFTP or FTPS, which use port 22 or 990 respectively and encrypt the data.
• Port 443 is used by HTTPS, a secure protocol that encrypts the data using SSL/TLS certificates. HTTPS should be preferred over HTTP, which uses port 80 and sends data in plain text.
• Port 587 is used by SMTP, a protocol that sends email messages. SMTP can be secured by using STARTTLS, which initiates encryption after the initial handshake. Alternatively, port 465 can be used for SMTPS, which encrypts the data from the start.
• Port 8080 is used by HTTP proxy, a protocol that allows clients to access web servers through an intermediary. HTTP proxy can be secured by using HTTPS proxy, which uses port 443 and encrypts the data.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Protocols and Services, pages 62-63, 66-67, 69-70, 72-73, 75-76.
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 2.1: Common TCP and UDP Ports, pages 16-17.
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Training Course, Video 2.1: Common TCP and UDP Ports, 6.

• To make a Cat 6 cable that connects from a PC to a non-capable MDIX switch, you need to use the same wiring standard on both ends of the cable, such as TIA-568-B, which is the most common standard for Ethernet cables. This will create a straight-through cable, which is used to connect devices of different types, such as a PC and a switch.
• You also need to use the appropriate connectors for the cable, which are RJ45 connectors for Cat 6 cables. RJ45 connectors are 8-pin modular connectors that are used for Ethernet and other network applications. They are different from RJ11 connectors, which are 4-pin or 6-pin connectors that are used for telephone lines. F-type connectors are coaxial connectors that are used for cable TV or satellite signals, not for Ethernet cables.
• TIA-568-A is another wiring standard for Ethernet cables, but it is not compatible with TIA-568-B. If you use TIA-568-A on one end and TIA-568-B on the other end of the cable, you will create a crossover cable, which is used to connect devices of the same type, such as two switches or two PCs. A crossover cable will not work for connecting a PC to a non-capable MDIX switch, unless the switch has an auto-MDIX feature that can automatically detect and adjust the cable type.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2: Network Cabling and Topologies, Section 2.1: Network Cabling, p. 55-58
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 2.1: Network Cabling, p. 9-10
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Training Course, Video 2.1: Network Cabling, 7:06-9:48

Layer 4 is where TCP/IP port numbers identify which network application is receiving the packet and where it is applied. Layer 4 is also known as the transport layer in the TCP/IP model or the OSI model. The transport layer is responsible for providing reliable or unreliable end-to-end data transmission between hosts on a network. The transport layer uses port numbers to identify and multiplex different applications or processes that communicate over the network. Port numbers are 16-bit numbers that range from 0 to 65535 and are divided into three categories: well-known ports (0-1023), registered ports (1024-49151), and dynamic ports (49152-65535). Some examples of well-known port numbers are 80 for HTTP, 443 for HTTPS, and 25 for SMTP. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], Transport Layer - an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

A Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) is a type of firewall that can filter traffic on all OSI layers, as well as provide advanced security features such as application awareness, intrusion prevention, and threat intelligence. A NGFW can replace a traditional router at the edge of a network and provide better protection against network attacks.

A proxy is a server that acts as an intermediary between clients and servers, forwarding requests and responses. A proxy can filter traffic on the application layer (layer 7), but not on the lower layers of the OSI model.

A layer 3 switch is a device that can perform both switching and routing functions. A layer 3 switch can filter traffic on the network layer (layer 3), but not on the higher or lower layers of the OSI model.

A load balancer is a device that distributes incoming traffic among a group of servers, improving performance and reliability. A load balancer can filter traffic on the transport layer (layer 4), but not on the higher or lower layers of the OSI model.

References

What is a Next-Generation Firewall?

What is a Reverse Proxy vs. Load Balancer?

Load Balancers Vs Api Gateway Vs Reverse Proxy

Reverse Proxy and Load Balancer: Understanding the Difference

CompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Eighth Edition (Exam N10-008)

"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."

To access production applications and data, developers must first connect remotely to a different server. From there, the developers are able to access production data. This best represents a jump box, which is a system on a network used to access and manage devices in a separate security zone. A jump box is a hardened and monitored device that spans two dissimilar security zones and provides a controlled means of access between them1

A jump box is often used to provide transparent management of devices on a DMZ or a production environment once a remote session has been established. The jump box acts as a single audit point for traffic and also a single place where user accounts can be managed. A prospective administrator or developer must log into the jump box in order to gain access to the production assets and all access can be logged for later audit1

The other options do not best represent the scenario. A management plane is a logical part of a network device that provides administrative functions such as configuration, monitoring, and troubleshooting2 A proxy server is a device that acts as an intermediary between a client and a server, providing functions such as caching, filtering, or load balancing3 An out-of-band management device is a device that provides a separate and dedicated channel for network management, such as a console port or a modem. A site-to-site VPN is a secure connection between two or more networks over the internet, using encryption and tunneling protocols.

References:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jump_server

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.

One of the best practices to secure the network would be to disable unneeded switchports in the guest waiting area. This will prevent unauthorized users from connecting to the network through these ports. It's important to identify which switchports are not in use and disable them, as this will prevent unauthorized access to the network.

Other practices such as ensuring all guests sign an NDA, lowering the radio strength to reduce Wi-Fi coverage in the waiting area and enabling MAC filtering to block unknown hardware addresses are not as effective in securing the network as disabling unneeded switchports. Enforcing an NDA with guests may not stop a malicious user from attempting to access the network, reducing the radio strength only limits the Wi-Fi coverage, and MAC filtering can be easily bypassed by hackers.

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.

iSCSI (Internet Small Computer System Interface) is a protocol that allows SCSI commands to be transported over IP networks1. iSCSI can be routed because it contains a network address and a device address, as required by a routable protocol2. iSCSI can be used to access block-level storage devices over a network, such as SAN (Storage Area Network).

FCoE (Fibre Channel over Ethernet) is a protocol that allows Fibre Channel frames to be encapsulated and transported over Ethernet networks1. FCoE cannot be routed because it does not contain a network address, only a device address. FCoE operates at the data link layer and requires special switches and adapters to support it. FCoE can also be used to access block-level storage devices over a network, such as SAN.

Fibre Channel is a protocol that provides high-speed and low-latency communication between servers and storage devices1. Fibre Channel cannot be routed because it does not use IP networks, but rather its own dedicated network infrastructure. Fibre Channel operates at the physical layer and the data link layer and requires special cables, switches, and adapters to support it. Fibre Channel can also be used to access block-level storage devices over a network, such as SAN.

NetBEUI (NetBIOS Extended User Interface) is an old protocol that provides session-level communication between devices on a local network1. NetBEUI cannot be routed because it does not contain a network address, only a device address. NetBEUI operates at the transport layer and relies on NetBIOS for name resolution. NetBEUI is obsolete and has been replaced by other protocols, such as TCP/IP.

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

Before taking any further action, it is important to verify that the problem reported by the users is the same as the one that prompted the firmware upgrade. It is possible that the firmware upgrade did resolve the original issue, but a new or different issue has arisen with similar symptoms. By gathering additional information from the users, such as error messages, screenshots, logs, or network traces, the technician can confirm or rule out this possibility and avoid wasting time and resources on unnecessary steps.

Reopening the service ticket, requesting a new maintenance window, and rolling back to the anterior firmware version (A) is a possible option if the firmware upgrade did not resolve the original issue and caused more problems. However, this should not be done without first verifying that the users’ concerns are related to the firmware upgrade and not a different issue.

Employing a divide-and-conquer troubleshooting methodology by engaging the firewall vendor’s support © is another possible option if the technician needs assistance from the vendor to diagnose or resolve the issue. However, this should also not be done without first gathering additional information from the users to narrow down the scope of the problem and provide relevant details to the vendor.

Escalating the issue to the IT management team in order to negotiate a new SLA with the user’s manager (D) is not a relevant option at this stage. An SLA (Service Level Agreement) is a contract that defines the expectations and responsibilities of both parties in terms of service quality, availability, performance, and response time. Negotiating a new SLA does not address the root cause of the issue or help to resolve it. Moreover, escalating an issue to management should only be done when all other options have been exhausted or when there is a significant impact or risk to the business.

SLA stands for Service Level Agreement, and it is a contract that defines the expectations and responsibilities between a service provider and a customer. SLA can specify the quality, availability, and performance metrics of the service, as well as the penalties for non-compliance and the procedures for resolving issues. SLA can help the network technician determine the scope of the issue by providing the baseline and target values for the service, the escalation process and contacts, and the service credits or remedies for the customer45.

CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide - Chapter 15: Network Troubleshooting Methodology35: What is a Service Level Agreement (SLA)? | ITIL | AXELOS

• 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

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 packet shown in the image is an SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) packet, which is used to monitor and manage network devices. SNMP uses community strings to authenticate requests and responses between SNMP agents and managers. However, community strings are sent in clear text and can be easily intercepted by attackers. Therefore, one way to secure SNMP traffic is to set a private community string that is not the default or well-known value. Another way to secure SNMP traffic is to use SNMPv3, which is the latest version of the protocol that supports encryption and authentication of SNMP messages.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 7.0 (N10-007), Objective 2.5: Given a scenario, use remote access methods.

Multifactor authentication is a method of verifying a user’s identity by requiring more than one factor, such as something the user knows, something the user has, or something the user is. A password is something the user knows, and a fingerprint is something the user is. Therefore, a user who needs to enter a password and scan a fingerprint is using multifactor authentication.

To troubleshoot high latency issues when accessing web servers, a technician should use tools like ping, nmap, and traceroute. Ping can verify the reachability of a server and measure round-trip time. Nmap can scan for open ports and detect services running on the server. Traceroute can identify the path traffic takes to reach the server and pinpoint where delays occur. References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives1.

This answer will help the organization to avoid expending resources on identifying non-relevant events, as the 404 errors on image files are not indicative of any security threat or issue, but rather a misconfiguration or a broken link on the web server. The 404 errors on image files are also very frequent and repetitive, as shown by the web server log, which can clutter the log and make it harder to spot any relevant events. By filtering out these errors, the analyst can focus on more important events and reduce the noise in the log.

The other answers are not as good as A, because they either do not address the problem of identifying non-relevant events, or they are based on incorrect assumptions or information. For example:

• B. Updating firewall rules to block 202.180.155.1 is not a good answer, because the IP address 202.180.155.1 is not doing anything malicious or suspicious, but rather requesting image files that do not exist on the web server. Blocking this IP address will not improve the security of the web server, but rather create unnecessary firewall rules and possibly deny legitimate access to the web server.
• C. Resyncing the network time server and monitoring logs for future anomalous behavior is not a good answer, because there is no evidence that the network time server is out of sync or causing any problems. The web server log shows that the entries are all within a few minutes of each other, which is normal and expected. Resyncing the network time server will not help the analyst to identify non-relevant events, but rather waste time and resources on an unrelated task.
• D. Checking with the penetration testing team to see if the team ran any scans on January 14, 2021 is not a good answer, because the web server log does not show any signs of a penetration test or a scan. The log shows only 404 errors on image files, which are not typical of a penetration test or a scan, which would usually target different types of files, ports, or vulnerabilities. Checking with the penetration testing team will not help the analyst to identify non-relevant events, but rather distract the analyst from the actual events and possibly create false alarms.

https://www.professormesser.com/network-plus/n10-008/n10-008-video/general-network-troubleshooting-n10-008/

The logging level debugging is the highest level of logging, which means that the switch will log every possible event, including low-priority and verbose messages. This can result in excessive amounts of data being sent to the syslog server, which can affect the performance and storage of the server. To fix the issue, the technician should adjust the logging level to a lower value, such as informational, warning, or error, depending on the desired level of detail and severity. This will reduce the amount of log data generated by the switch and only send the relevant and necessary messages to the syslog server.

https://betterstack.com/community/guides/logging/log-levels-explained/

To identify the source and destination addresses of the traffic causing network saturation, the network administrator should use a network protocol analyzer that supports the NetFlow protocol. NetFlow is a network protocol that collects IP traffic information as it enters or exits an interface and sends it to a NetFlow collector for analysis. This data includes the source and destination addresses of the traffic, the ports used, and the number of bytes and packets transferred.

Therefore, the correct answer is option D, NetFlow.

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

A cloud site is a type of disaster recovery site that uses cloud computing services to provide backup and recovery of data and applications in the event of a disaster1. A cloud site does not require a facility agreement or idle hardware, as the cloud provider manages the infrastructure and resources on demand. A cloud site can also offer scalability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness compared to other types of disaster recovery sites.

https://www.omnisecu.com/cisco-certified-network-associate-ccna/three-tier-hierarchical-network-model.php

Core Layer consists of biggest, fastest, and most expensive routers with the highest model numbers and Core Layer is considered as the back bone of networks. Core Layer routers are used to merge geographically separated networks. The Core Layer routers move information on the network as fast as possible. The switches operating at core layer switches packets as fast as possible.

Client roaming refers to the ability of a wireless device to seamlessly connect to a different access point (AP) as the user moves around the facility. This can help to improve network stability and reduce interruptions in mobile applications. An extended service deployment is a type of wireless network configuration that uses multiple APs to cover a large area, such as a warehouse facility. By using a wireless controller to manage the APs, the network can be better optimized for client roaming, which can improve network stability.

"Roaming With multiple WAPs in an ESS, clients will connect to whichever WAP has the strongest signal. As clients move through the space covered by the broadcast area, they will change WAP connections seamlessly, a process called roaming."

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.

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 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]

SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is a protocol that allows network devices to communicate with a management server. By using SNMP, the company can set up an SNMP agent on each sensor, which will report its temperature readings to an existing collector server. This will enable the company to monitor the temperatures of all their sensors in real-time without the need for manual checks. Additionally, SNMP's scalability means that even if the company adds more rooms or sensors, the existing system can be easily expanded to accommodate them.

 Link aggregation is a technique that allows multiple network interfaces to act as a single logical interface, increasing the bandwidth and redundancy of the network connection. Link aggregation can improve the performance of the network by balancing the traffic load across multiple links and providing failover in case one link fails. Link aggregation is also known as port trunking, port channeling, or NIC teaming.

References: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, Chapter 3, Section 3.3

To allow each device to access its expected network without additional connections, the administrator needs to configure VLANs (virtual LANs) on the switch. VLANs are logical groups of devices that share the same broadcast domain, regardless of their physical location or connection. VLANs can improve network performance, security, and management by isolating traffic and reducing broadcast storms. To configure VLANs on the switch, the administrator needs to assign each device port to a specific VLAN and set the VLAN tagging mode. VLAN tagging is a method of adding a VLAN identifier to the Ethernet frames to indicate which VLAN they belong to. There are two types of VLAN tagging: untagged and tagged. Untagged VLAN tagging means that the switch removes the VLAN identifier from the frames before sending them to the device port. This is suitable for end devices that do not support VLAN tagging, such as PCs, printers, etc. Tagged VLAN tagging means that the switch keeps the VLAN identifier on the frames when sending them to the device port. This is suitable for devices that support VLAN tagging, such as routers, servers, other switches, etc. To allow each device to access the rest of the network, the administrator needs to configure a trunk port on the switch that connects to the uplink. A trunk port is a port that can carry traffic from multiple VLANs using tagged VLAN tagging. This way, the switch can send and receive frames from different VLANs to and from the rest of the network. Therefore, the administrator should do the following to meet the requirements:

• Untag an individual VLAN per device port. This will assign each device port to a specific VLAN and remove the VLAN identifier from the frames before sending them to the device port. This will allow each device to access its expected network without additional connections.
• Tag the three VLANs across the uplink. This will configure a trunk port on the switch that connects to the uplink and add the VLAN identifier to the frames before sending them to the uplink. This will allow the switch to carry traffic from multiple VLANs to and from the rest of the network.

References:

• VLANs and Trunks
• VLAN Tagging Explained with DTP Protocol
• Network + N10-008 practice exam
• [CompTIA N10-008 Free Certification Exam Material]
• [Free Practice Questions for CompTIA Network+Exam (N10-008)]

• DNS poisoning is a type of attack that exploits vulnerabilities in the Domain Name System (DNS) to redirect traffic intended for a legitimate website to a malicious site. This can allow attackers to collect sensitive information such as login credentials, or infect visitors with malware12.
• DNS poisoning can be achieved by injecting malicious A records into internal name resolution servers. An A record is a type of DNS record that maps a domain name to an IP address. By changing the A record of a legitimate domain to point to a malicious IP address, an attacker can trick users into visiting the wrong site3.
• The other options are not correct because:

References:

• 1: Domain Hijacking vs DNS Poisoning: Do You Know the Difference? - Heimdal Security
• 2: What is an on-path attacker? - Cloudflare
• 3: What are the types of DNS spoofing? - Information Security Stack Exchange

A duplex mismatch is the most probable cause of the issues described, where the network connection experiences slow data transfers and intermittent lockups. This occurs when one device in a network connection operates in full-duplex mode and the other in half-duplex, leading to collisions and performance issues. In the scenario provided, the small switch taken from storage may not have been configured to match the duplex settings of the existing network, resulting in these data transfer issues. Other options like reversed TX/RX pinouts, cable crosstalk, or a failed transceiver would typically result in complete connection failures or consistent degradation, not intermittent issues as described​​.

Network Function Virtualization (NFV) is a technology that allows for the virtualization of a replica of a network's physical topology and the way it behaves without changing the logical topology and the way that devices are managed. NFV allows for the virtualization of network functions such as routers, firewalls, and switches, resulting in increased flexibility and scalability. This makes NFV an ideal technology for companies looking to virtualize a replica of their internal physical network.

Cat 8 keystones are shielded to prevent interference from external sources, but they also require proper grounding to avoid interference from within the cable. Wrapping the end connections with copper tape before terminating them is one way to ensure a good ground connection and reduce interference. Using passthrough modular crimping plugs, connecting the RX/TX wires to different pins, or running a speed test on a slow device are not relevant or effective steps to troubleshoot the issue.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 191
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, Deluxe Edition, page 362
• CAT8 RJ45 Keystone Problem : r/HomeNetworking2
• How to Terminate Cat8 Shielded Keystone Jacks3

Techniques to check if a connection was made by a human user, such as CAPTCHAs, are effective against automated attacks like:

• A. Brute-force: This attack method involves trying many passwords or passphrases with the hope of eventually guessing correctly.
• B. Dictionary: Similar to brute-force, this attack uses a list of words to attempt to guess passwords or encryption keys.

These techniques are not designed to protect against:

• C. On-path attack: Previously known as a man-in-the-middle attack, where the attacker intercepts communication between two parties.
• D. Phishing: A social engineering attack aiming to trick users into giving up sensitive information.
• E. Shoulder surfing: Direct observation techniques, such as looking over someone’s shoulder to get information.
• F. Evil twin: A rogue Wi-Fi access point that appears legitimate but is set up to eavesdrop on wireless communications.

When a DHCP client is connected to a network and no DHCP server is available, the client can automatically configure a link-local address in the 169.254.0.0/16 range using the Automatic Private IP Addressing (APIPA) feature. So, the correct answer is option B, 169.254.1.128. This is also known as an APIPA address.

The policy that outlines the software and hardware requirements for using personally owned devices to conduct business is BYOD (Bring Your Own Device). BYOD is a practice that allows employees to use their own devices, such as laptops, tablets, or smartphones, to access corporate resources and applications. BYOD can offer benefits such as increased productivity, flexibility, and satisfaction for employees, as well as reduced costs for employers. However, BYOD also poses challenges and risks, such as security, compatibility, and support issues. Therefore, a BYOD policy is needed to define the rules and expectations for using personal devices in a business environment. A BYOD policy typically covers topics such as device eligibility, security requirements, acceptable use, data ownership, privacy, and liability. References: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 362; The Official CompTIA Network+ Student Guide (Exam N10-008), page 14-2.

When connecting two unmanaged switches together, the use of a straight-through Ethernet cable is typically incorrect unless the switches support auto-mdix (automatic medium-dependent interface crossover), which automatically adjusts the connection to allow for different types of cables. Older or more basic unmanaged switches often require a crossover cable when connecting similar devices (switch-to-switch or hub-to-hub) to ensure the transmit pins on one end match the receive pins on the other end. This allows data to flow correctly between the two devices. Since the uplinks are not on, it suggests that the correct pin alignment is not being achieved with the straight-through cable, and a crossover cable should be used instead​​.

A core switch is the most likely device causing the issue where users on each floor have stable connectivity, but do not have connectivity to other floors. A core switch is a high-performance switch that connects multiple access switches in a network. An access switch is a switch that connects end devices, such as computers and printers, to the network. A core switch acts as the backbone of the network, providing interconnection and routing between different subnets or VLANs. If the core switch is malfunctioning or misconfigured, it can prevent communication between different segments of the network, resulting in intermittent connectivity issues. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], Core Switch vs Access Switch: What Are the Differences?

Link aggregation is a technique that allows multiple physical ports to be combined into a single logical channel, which provides increased bandwidth, load balancing, and redundancy. Link aggregation can be configured using protocols such as Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) or static methods.

References

• Link aggregation is one of the common Ethernet switching features covered in Objective 2.3 of the CompTIA Network+ N10-008 certification exam1.
• Link aggregation can be used to connect two ports to the core switch to ensure redundancy23.
• Link aggregation can be configured using LACP or static methods23.

1: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 5 2: Interface Configurations – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.3 3: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide, Chapter 11, page 323

• The most likely cause of the problem is that the switch port that the new PC is connected to is configured with port security, which is a feature that limits the number of MAC addresses that can be learned on a port.
• Port security can prevent unauthorized devices from accessing the network by either shutting down the port or dropping the traffic from the unknown MAC address.
• Since the existing PC operates normally, it means that its MAC address is already authorized on the switch port, but the new PC’s MAC address is not.
• Therefore, the technician should contact the network team to either disable port security on the switch port or add the new PC’s MAC address to the authorized list.
• This will allow the new PC to get an IP address on the client’s VLAN and access the network resources.
• The other options are not relevant to the situation, as they do not address the root cause of the problem.

References:

• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3, Section 3.4, “Port Security”, page 147-148.
• : Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 3.4, “Port Security”, page 30.
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 2, Section 2.3, “DNS Concepts”, page 79-80.
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 6, Section 6.2, “SIEM”, page 316-317.
• : CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 5, Section 5.1, “NetFlow”, page 262-263.

 Biometrics is a type of authentication that uses a person’s physical characteristics, such as fingerprints, iris, or face, to verify their identity. An access control vestibule is a small room or area that separates two spaces and allows only one person to enter or exit at a time. Biometrics in an access control vestibule is the most effective physical security method to prevent tailgating, which is the unauthorized entry of a person behind another person who has legitimate access.

References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 5.1: Summarize the importance of physical security controls.

 Interference from other devices can cause wireless connection drops or slow performance. This can happen when devices use the same or overlapping frequency channels as the wireless network, such as cordless phones, microwaves, Bluetooth devices, etc. To avoid interference, it is recommended to use non-overlapping channels and avoid placing wireless access points near potential sources of interference. References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 2.1: Explain the purposes and use cases for advanced network devices. Subobjective: Wireless controllers.

• An optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR) is a device that can measure the characteristics of an optical fiber, such as its length, attenuation, and splice points12.
• An OTDR works by sending a pulse of light into one end of the fiber and measuring the amount of light that is reflected back at different intervals12.
• By analyzing the reflected light, an OTDR can determine the distance to any faults or breaks in the fiber, as well as the overall quality of the fiber12.
• An OTDR can also provide a graphical representation of the fiber, called a trace, that shows the attenuation and reflection along the fiber12.
• Using an OTDR can reduce repair time because it can quickly and accurately locate the fault point in the fiber, without requiring access to both ends of the fiber12.
• The other options are not suitable for testing fiber optic cables:

References:

• 1: Optical Fiber - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.3
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Full Course for Beginners - Fiber Optic Cabling and Connectors
• 3: Wire Crimpers and Testers - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.3
• 4: Multimeter - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.3
• 5: Spectrum Analyzer - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.3

802.11g is an older wireless standard that operates in the 2.4 GHz frequency band and has a maximum data rate of 54 Mbps. 802.11a is a newer wireless standard that operates in the 5 GHz frequency band and has a maximum data rate of 54 Mbps. By configuring the APS to be compatible with 802.11a, the network engineer can reduce interference and congestion in the 2.4 GHz band and improve wireless performance.

References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 2.5: Implement network troubleshooting methodologies

 A denial-of-service (DoS) attack is an example of an attack where an attacker sends more connection requests than a server can handle, causing the server to crash. A DoS attack is a type of cyberattack that aims to disrupt the normal functioning of a network service or resource by overwhelming it with excessive or malformed traffic. A DoS attack can prevent legitimate users from accessing the service or resource, resulting in degraded performance, unavailability, or data loss. A DoS attack can target various network layers, protocols, or components, such as servers, routers, firewalls, or applications. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], What Is a Denial-of-Service (DoS) Attack? | Cisco

NIC Teaming, also known as load balancing and failover (LBFO), allows multiple network adapters on a computer to be placed into a team for the following purposes: (https://www.bing.com/search?q=what+is+nic+teaming+used+for%3F &form=QBLH&sp=-1&pq=what+is+nic+teaming+used+for&sc=10-28&qs=n&sk=&cvid=13882A9A9B584D8099F4ABCAD034E821&ghsh=0&ghacc=0&ghpl=)

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)?

CNAME stands for Canonical Name, and it is a type of DNS record that creates an alias for another domain name. A CNAME record can be used to redirect a network resource that has been moved to a different location, such as a SaaS solution. For example, if a web server that was previously hosted on the local network with the domain name www.example.com is now hosted by a SaaS provider with the domain name www.saasprovider.com, a CNAME record can be created to point www.example.com to www.saasprovider.com. This way, the users can still access the web server using the original domain name, and the DNS server will resolve it to the new domain name.

References

• CNAME is one of the common DNS record types covered in Objective 1.6 of the CompTIA Network+ N10-008 certification exam1.
• CNAME can be used to redirect a network resource that has been moved to a different location23.
• CNAME creates an alias for another domain name23.

1: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 4 2: DNS Record Types – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 1.6 3: The Official CompTIA Network+ Student Guide (Exam N10-008), Chapter 1, page 32

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.

When a fiber uplink is operating at 100% capacity for an extended period of time, it can cause sustained link saturation. This can impact the network's performance by increasing latency. Latency is the time it takes for a packet to travel from the source to its destination. When there is link saturation, packets may have to wait in a queue before being transmitted, which increases the time it takes for them to reach their destination. As a result, users may experience delays or timeouts when accessing network resources.

Other metrics such as jitter, speed, and bandwidth are also important, but they are not as directly impacted by sustained link saturation as latency.

The appropriate next step in this situation would be to check for the existence of a known exploit in order to assess the risk. This is important because it will help the network administrator determine the severity of the vulnerability and the potential impact it could have on the organization. Once the network administrator has assessed the risk, they can then take appropriate action to address the vulnerability. This might include patching the application, deploying a new server to host the application, or implementing other security measures to mitigate the risk. It is generally not advisable to immediately shut down the vulnerable application server, as this could disrupt business operations and cause significant downtime. Similarly, installing a network access control agent on the server may not be the most effective solution, as it would not address the underlying vulnerability.

For a new global ISP to connect from central offices in North America to the United Kingdom, the best cabling solution would be single-mode fiber optic cable. Single-mode fiber optic cable is a type of cable that is used to transmit data over long distances using light signals. It is typically used in long-haul communication networks, such as those that connect different countries or continents.

DHCP scope exhaustion is the situation when a DHCP server runs out of available IP addresses to assign to clients. DHCP stands for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol, which is a network protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses and other configuration parameters to clients on a network. A DHCP scope is a range of IP addresses that a DHCP server can distribute to clients. If the DHCP scope is exhausted, new clients will not be able to obtain an IP address and connect to the network. This can explain why the smart TV was not able to connect to the branch Wi-Fi on the first day, and why the bank laptop lost network access on the next day when the TV was connected. The technician should either increase the size of the DHCP scope or reduce the lease time of the IP addresses to avoid DHCP scope exhaustion. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], DHCP Scope Exhaustion - What Is It? How Do You Fix It?

Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is a network protocol that ensures a loop-free topology in Ethernet networks by actively blocking certain links and enabling others. STP prevents loops by putting some of the links in a blocking state, effectively creating a loop-free topology. This ensures that there is only one active path between two devices, which helps prevent network loops and the associated problems (such as broadcast storms) that can result from them. STP is used to create a fault-tolerant ring between three switches within a Layer 2 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

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

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 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

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

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 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

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