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

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

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

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

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.

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

The 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

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

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

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

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

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

A 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.

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

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

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

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

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 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

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/

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.

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

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

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.

If multiple users in a new building are unable to access the company’s intranet site via their web browser but are able to access internet sites, the network administrator can resolve this issue by correcting the DNS server entries in the DHCP scope. The DHCP scope is responsible for assigning IP addresses and DNS server addresses to clients. If the DNS server entries are incorrect, clients will not be able to access intranet sites.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Study Guide, Exam N10-007, Fourth Edition, Chapter 4: Network Implementations, Objective 4.4: Explain the purpose and properties of DHCP.

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

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

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

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/

• 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

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/

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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/

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

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

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

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)

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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/

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

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/

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/

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

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

A 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.

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.

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

 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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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

On the first exhibit, the layout should be as follows

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

Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

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

Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

Exhibit 2 as follows

Access Point Name AP2

Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

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

Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

Exhibit 3 as follows

Access Point Name AP3

Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

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

Graphical user interface Description automatically generated

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

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

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.

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.

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

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/

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

 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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

 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

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/

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

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 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

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.

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/

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.

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

References:

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

• The 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

Given that the longer cables within the infrastructure are working correctly but the newly installed patch cables are causing connectivity issues, the most likely cause is an incorrect pinout on the patch cables. If these cables were not properly crimped according to the T568A or T568B wiring standards, they could easily cause a failure in connectivity due to incorrect alignment of the transmitting and receiving pins. This is a common issue with DIY or newly crimped cables where mistakes in the wire arrangement can render the cables non-functional. The other listed issues, such as mixed cable types, plenum rating, or cable distance exceedance, would not typically result in a total loss of connectivity as described​​.

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.

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.

OSPF stands for Open Shortest Path First, which is a link-state routing protocol that is hierarchal by nature and uses the router ID to control convergence. OSPF divides a large network into areas, which are logical groupings of routers that share the same topology information. Each area has a unique identifier and a designated router that connects it to the backbone area (area 0). OSPF uses the router ID, which is a 32-bit number that uniquely identifies each router in the network, to establish adjacencies and exchange routing information. OSPF also uses the router ID to break ties when choosing the best path to a destination. OSPF converges faster than distance-vector routing protocols such as RIP and EIGRP, as it uses the Dijkstra algorithm to calculate the shortest path based on the link cost. BGP, on the other hand, is a path-vector routing protocol that is used to exchange routing information between autonomous systems on the Internet. BGP does not use the router ID to control convergence, but rather uses attributes such as AS path, local preference, and MED to select the best route. BGP is not hierarchal by nature, as it does not divide the network into areas, but rather uses prefixes and policies to control the routing behavior.

References

• 1: OSPF – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.1
• 2: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, page 146-149
• 3: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Subnetting Quiz, question 19
• 4: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Practice Test, question 8

One of the features that can be configured to ensure that GRE overhead does not affect payload is A. jumbo frames. Jumbo frames are Ethernet frames that have a payload size larger than 1500 bytes, which is the standard maximum transmission unit (MTU) for Ethernet. By using jumbo frames, more data can be sent in each packet, reducing the overhead ratio and improving efficiency.

Auto medium-dependent interface (MDI), interface crossover, and collision detection are features related to Ethernet physical layer connectivity, but they do not affect GRE overhead or payload.

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.

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

Phishing is a type of social engineering attack that uses email, phone, SMS, or other forms of personal communication to trick users into revealing sensitive information, such as log-in credentials, to an attacker. In this case, the user was deceived by a phone call that pretended to be from a legitimate source and asked for their log-in details.

A role-based access control (RBAC) policy is a security measure that assigns permissions and privileges to users based on their roles and responsibilities within an organization. RBAC helps to enforce the principle of least privilege, which states that users should only have the minimum level of access required to perform their tasks. RBAC also helps to prevent unauthorized access, modification, or misuse of sensitive data or resources by limiting the scope and impact of user actions.

A software patching policy, firewalls on the software development servers, and longer and more complex password requirements are all good security practices, but they do not directly address the issue of preventing the former software developer from modifying code. A software patching policy ensures that software is updated regularly to fix bugs and vulnerabilities, but it does not prevent a user from introducing new code changes. Firewalls on the software development servers protect the servers from external attacks, but they do not prevent a user from accessing the servers internally. Longer and more complex password requirements make it harder for attackers to guess or crack passwords, but they do not prevent a user from using their own valid credentials.

References

1: Role-Based Access Control (RBAC) - Definition and Examples

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

3: [What is the Principle of Least Privilege? - Definition from Techopedia]

MTTR is directly related to how quickly a system can be repaired if any major part fails3. The management team requires that the infrastructure be capable of being repaired in less than 60 minutes, which means they have a low MTTR requirement.

MTTR stands for Mean Time To Repair and is a metric used to measure the average amount of time it takes to repair a failed component or system. In this case, the requirement is for the infrastructure to be capable of being repaired in less than 60 minutes if any major part fails, which means the MTTR should be less than 60 minutes.

To define the location where VoIP phones can download configuration files, the network administrator can use scope options within the Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) service. Scope options are a set of values that can be configured within a DHCP scope, which defines a range of IP addresses that can be leased to clients on a network. One of the scope options that can be configured is the option for the location of the configuration file server, which specifies the URL or IP address of the server where the configuration files can be downloaded.

https://pbxbook.com/voip/dhcpcfg.html

The output shown in the image is from the show interface command, which displays information about the status and configuration of a network interface on a switch or router. The output includes the interface name, description, MAC address, IP address, speed, duplex mode, status, and statistics. The show route command displays the routing table of the device. The show config command displays the current configuration of the device. The tcpdump command captures and analyzes network traffic. The netstat -s command displays statistics for each protocol.

References: CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives Version 7.0 (N10-007), Objective 2.4: Given a scenario, use appropriate software tools to troubleshoot connectivity issues.

Jumbo frames are Ethernet frames that can carry more than the standard 1,500 bytes of payload data. Jumbo frames can support payloads of up to 9,000 bytes, depending on the network device and configuration. Jumbo frames can improve network performance by reducing the overhead of packet headers and increasing the efficiency of data transmission. Jumbo frames can also reduce the CPU utilization of the sender and receiver devices, as they require fewer interrupts and processing cycles. However, jumbo frames also have some drawbacks, such as increased latency, fragmentation, and compatibility issues. Therefore, jumbo frames should be used with caution and only in networks that support them end-to-end.

A technician who is configuring a bandwidth-monitoring tool that supports payloads of 1,600 bytes should enable jumbo frames for this tool, as this would allow the tool to capture and analyze more data per frame and provide more accurate and detailed results. However, the technician should also ensure that the network devices and interfaces that the tool is connected to also support jumbo frames, and that the MTU (maximum transmission unit) is set to the same value across the network path.

ReferencesWhat are Jumbo Frames?How to Enable Jumbo FramesCompTIA Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Eighth Edition (Exam N10-008)

• AP transmit power: You should check if your APs have sufficient power output and adjust them if needed. You should also make sure they are not exceeding regulatory limits for your region.
• Antenna gain: You should check if your antennas have adequate gain for your coverage area and replace them if needed. You should also make sure they are aligned properly and not obstructed by any objects.

In the scenario described, the wireless controller is measuring a low EIRP value compared to the recommendations noted in the most recent site survey. EIRP is the combination of the power transmitted by the access point and the antenna gain. Therefore, to increase the EIRP value to meet the site survey's specifications, the administrator should verify or replace the AP transmit power (option A) and the antenna gain (option E). This can be achieved by adjusting the transmit power settings on the AP or by replacing the AP's antenna with one that has a higher gain

Enterprise authentication is a method of securing wireless networks that uses an external authentication server, such as RADIUS, to verify the identity of users and devices. Enterprise authentication can provide user traceability by logging the network connections and activities of each authenticated user. This can help the organization meet its security requirement and comply with any regulations or policies that mandate user accountability12.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Exam Objectives, page 83
• CompTIA Network+ Cert Guide: Wireless Networking, page 13

• The DHCP network scope defines the range of IP addresses that can be assigned to the devices on the network by the DHCP server.
• In this scenario, the DHCP scope is configured for 244 addresses, which is not enough for the 325 loT sensors that need to connect to the network.
• Therefore, the first 244 loT sensors were able to get an IP address from the DHCP server and connect to the TFTP server, while the remaining 81 sensors could not obtain an IP address and were shown as offline.
• To solve this problem, the network administrator should check the DHCP network scope and either increase the range of IP addresses or create a new scope for the additional loT sensors.
• Checking the gateway connectivity to the TFTP server, the NTP server status, or the loT devices for hardware failure are not relevant to this issue, as they would affect all the loT sensors, not just some of them. References:
• [CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide], Chapter 2: Network Devices and Technologies, Section 2.3: Configure and Support loT Devices, p. 84
• [Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes], Section 1.2: Network Topologies and Types, p. 8
• Network+ N10-008 Practice Test | CertBlaster, Question 1

"One final usage of the TXT resource record is how some cloud service providers, such as Azure, validate ownership of custom domains. You are provided with data to include in your TXT record, and once that is created, the domain is verified and able to be used. The thought is that if you control the DNS, then you own the domain name."

High availability is a quality of a system or component that assures a high level of operational performance for a given period of time. High availability means that an IT system, component, or application can operate at a high level, continuously, without intervention, for a given time period. High-availability infrastructure is configured to deliver quality performance and handle different loads and failures with minimal or zero downtime. High availability is important for web-based applications, as it ensures that the application is always accessible to the end users, even in the event of a server or component failure. High availability can be achieved by eliminating single points of failure, implementing redundancy, load balancing, and failover mechanisms.

PAT (Port Address Translation) is a type of Network Address Translation (NAT) that allows multiple devices to share a single public IP address by using different port numbers. PAT enables devices to access the internet without exposing their private IP addresses. A router is a device that can perform PAT by translating the source IP address and port number of outgoing packets and the destination IP address and port number of incoming packets. A Layer 3 switch is a device that can perform basic routing functions by using IP addresses, but it cannot perform PAT or other advanced routing features that a router can.

 ARP spoofing is a technique that involves sending fake ARP messages to associate an attacker’s MAC address with an IP address of a legitimate device on the network. This allows the attacker to intercept, modify, or drop the traffic that is intended for the legitimate device. This is also known as an on-path attack, or a man-in-the-middle attack, because the attacker is positioned between two communicating parties and can alter or manipulate the data. ARP spoofing can be used for various malicious purposes, such as stealing sensitive information, hijacking sessions, redirecting traffic, or launching other attacks. DNS poisoning, DoS attack, and rogue access point are not directly related to ARP spoofing, although they can be used in conjunction with it or as a result of it. DNS poisoning is a technique that involves corrupting the DNS cache of a server or a client with false information, such as mapping a domain name to an IP address of an attacker’s server. This can be used to redirect users to malicious websites, phishing pages, or malware downloads. DoS attack is a technique that involves overwhelming a target system or network with excessive requests or traffic, such as SYN floods, ICMP floods, or UDP floods. This can be used to degrade the performance, availability, or functionality of the target system or network. Rogue access point is a wireless access point that is installed or configured without authorization on a network. This can be used to provide unauthorized access to the network, capture network traffic, or launch other attacks. References:

• ARP Spoofing
• On-path Attack
• DNS Poisoning
• [DoS Attack]
• [Rogue Access Point]
• [Network + N10-008 practice exam]
• [CompTIA N10-008 Free Certification Exam Material]

Fiber-optic cables are cables that use light signals to transmit data over long distances at high speeds. Fiber-optic cables are sensitive to dirt, dust, moisture, or other contaminants that can interfere with the light signals and cause link loss or signal degradation. To troubleshoot link loss issues with fiber-optic cables, one of the steps that should be completed next is to clean the fiber-optic cable ends with a lint-free cloth or a specialized cleaning tool. Cleaning the fiber-optic cable ends can remove any dirt or debris that may be blocking or reflecting the light signals and restore the link quality.

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

Asymmetric routing is a situation in which the path taken by data packets between two points in a network is different in both directions. It can be caused by factors such as unequal cost paths, policy-based routing, load balancing, or network topology changes1

In this scenario, the network administrator is troubleshooting a connectivity performance issue, which could be affected by asymmetric routing. For example, if one path has more congestion, latency, or packet loss than the other, the performance of the communication between the client and the server will be degraded2

To diagnose the issue, the network administrator performs a traceout from the client to the server, and also from the server to the client. A traceout is a tool that shows the route and the number of hops that a packet takes to reach a destination. By comparing the outputs, the network administrator can identify if there is asymmetric routing in the network3

If the outputs show different hops between the hosts, it means that the packets are taking different paths in each direction, which is a sign of asymmetric routing. Therefore, the best answer is A. Asymmetric routing.

The other options are not as likely to explain the findings. A routing loop is a confusion about the reachability of a destination network, which causes packets to loop endlessly between two or more routers4 A switch loop is a situation in which there is more than one layer 2 path between two endpoints, which causes broadcast storms and MAC database instability5 An incorrect gateway is a configuration error that prevents a device from reaching the intended destination network6

None of these options would necessarily result in different hops between the hosts, as they would either cause the packets to be dropped, discarded, or delayed, but not rerouted. Therefore, the best answer is A. Asymmetric routing.

References:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Routing_loop

https://www.networkstraining.com/what-is-asymmetric-routing/

https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/troubleshoot/windows-server/networking/ip-default-gateway-settings-assigned-incorrectly

https://superuser.com/questions/1715808/cant-access-router-settings-default-gateway-not-working-as-expected

A vulnerability is a security flaw in an application or network that can be exploited by an attacker, allowing them to gain access to sensitive data or take control of the system. Vulnerabilities can range from weak authentication methods to unpatched software, allowing attackers to gain access to the system or data they would not otherwise be able to access. Exploits are programs or techniques used to take advantage of vulnerabilities, while threats are potential dangers, and risks are the likelihood of a threat becoming a reality.

MAN stands for Metropolitan Area Network, and it is a type of network that covers a large geographic area, such as a city or a county. MANs are often used to connect multiple LANs (Local Area Networks) within a region, such as schools, offices, or government buildings. MANs typically use high-speed and high-capacity transmission media, such as fiber-optic cables, to provide fast and reliable data communication. MANs can also provide access to WANs (Wide Area Networks), such as the Internet, or other services, such as cable TV or VoIP.

The other options are not correct because they are not the type of network that covers a large city. They are:

• LAN. LAN stands for Local Area Network, and it is a type of network that covers a small geographic area, such as a home, an office, or a building. LANs are often used to connect multiple devices, such as computers, printers, or phones, within a single network. LANs typically use low-cost and low-capacity transmission media, such as twisted-pair cables, to provide data communication. LANs can also provide access to other networks, such as MANs or WANs, through routers or gateways.
• CAN. CAN stands for Campus Area Network, and it is a type of network that covers a moderate geographic area, such as a university, a hospital, or a military base. CANs are often used to connect multiple LANs within a campus, such as different departments, buildings, or facilities. CANs typically use medium-cost and medium-capacity transmission media, such as coaxial cables, to provide data communication. CANs can also provide access to other networks, such as MANs or WANs, through routers or gateways.
• WAN. WAN stands for Wide Area Network, and it is a type of network that covers a very large geographic area, such as a country, a continent, or the world. WANs are often used to connect multiple MANs or LANs across different regions, such as different cities, states, or countries. WANs typically use high-cost and high-capacity transmission media, such as satellite links, to provide data communication. WANs can also provide access to various services, such as the Internet, email, or VPN.

References1: What is a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN)? - Definition from Techopedia2: Network+ (Plus) Certification | CompTIA IT Certifications3: What is a Local Area Network (LAN)? - Definition from Techopedia4: What is a Campus Area Network (CAN)? - Definition from Techopedia5: What is a Wide Area Network (WAN)? - Definition from Techopedia

A split-tunnel VPN is a VPN feature that allows remote users to access network resources while only redirecting necessary traffic through the VPN tunnel. A split-tunnel VPN enables users to choose which applications or websites to secure with the VPN and which to connect normally through the internet. This can improve performance, conserve bandwidth, and avoid compatibility issues with some services that depend on the user’s location. A split-tunnel VPN can also allow users to access local devices or resources that are not accessible through the VPN.

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."

• Attenuation is the loss of signal strength as it travels over a distance or through a medium. It is measured in decibels (dB) and can affect the quality and reliability of network communication.
• In this scenario, the connection from PC A to switch 1 is using a Cat 5 cable with a length of 394ft (120m), which exceeds the recommended maximum length of 328ft (100m) for twisted-pair cables. This can cause significant attenuation and performance degradation between PC A and PC B.
• To solve this problem, the network technician should either reduce the cable length, use a higher category cable, or insert a repeater or amplifier device to boost the signal strength.
• Interference is the unwanted noise or signal that affects the network communication. It can be caused by electromagnetic sources, such as power lines, motors, or wireless devices, or by crosstalk, which is the interference between adjacent wires in a cable. Interference can also affect the network performance, but it is not the most likely cause in this scenario, as it would affect all the connections, not just the one with the excessive cable length.
• Decibel loss is another term for attenuation, so it is not a separate option. Incorrect pinout is the wrong arrangement of wires in a cable connector, which can prevent the network devices from communicating properly. However, this is not the most likely cause in this scenario, as the cable configuration is correct (straight through) for the connection from PC A to switch 1. References:
• [CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide], Chapter 3: Network Cabling and Topologies, Section 3.1: Compare and Contrast Cabling Types, Standards, and Properties, p. 115-116
• [Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes], Section 2.1: Copper Cabling, p. 19
• Network+ N10-008 Practice Test | CertBlaster, Question 1

HIDS (host-based intrusion detection system) is a type of security software that monitors and analyzes the activity on a host device, such as a computer or a server. HIDS can detect and alert on intrusions, such as malware infections, unauthorized access, configuration changes, or policy violations. HIDS can also actively mitigate intrusions by blocking or quarantining malicious processes, files, or network connections1.

HIPS (host-based intrusion prevention system) is similar to HIDS, but it can also prevent intrusions from happening in the first place by enforcing security policies and rules on the host device2. MDS (multilayer switch) is a network device that combines the functions of a switch and a router, and it does not directly protect a host device from intrusions3. NIPS (network-based intrusion prevention system) is a network device that monitors and blocks malicious traffic on the network level, and it does not operate on the host device level4.

• A POE injector is a device that provides power and data over a single Ethernet cable to a POE device, such as a VoIP phone, a wireless access point, or a security camera12.
• A POE injector is needed when the switch or router that connects to the POE device does not support POE or does not have enough POE ports available12.
• A POE injector can be installed between the switch or router and the POE device, using two Ethernet cables: one from the switch or router to the injector, and another from the injector to the POE device12.
• A POE injector can supply up to 30W of power per port, depending on the POE standard it supports (802.3af or 802.3at)12.
• B. Enable MDIX is not a correct answer because MDIX is a feature that allows a switch or router to automatically detect the type of cable (straight-through or crossover) and adjust the pin assignments accordingly34.
• MDIX is not related to providing power to a POE device, and it is usually enabled by default on modern switches and routers34.
• C. Use a crossover cable is not a correct answer because a crossover cable is a type of Ethernet cable that swaps the transmit and receive pairs of wires, allowing two devices of the same type (such as two switches or two computers) to communicate directly56.
• A crossover cable is not needed to connect a VoIP phone to a switch or router, as they are different types of devices that use different pin assignments56.
• A crossover cable also does not provide power to a POE device, and it may not work with gigabit Ethernet or auto-MDIX devices56.
• D. Reconfigure the port is not a correct answer because reconfiguring the port on the switch or router that connects to the VoIP phone does not address the issue of providing power to the phone78.
• Reconfiguring the port may involve changing the speed, duplex, VLAN, or security settings, but none of these affect the power delivery to the POE device78.
• Reconfiguring the port may also cause network connectivity or performance issues if the settings are not compatible with the VoIP phone or the network78.

References:

• What Is a PoE Injector and How to Use It? | FS Community
• Power Injector for PoE Networks | Eaton
• CCNA / CCENT / Network+ Tutorial: Crossover Cables And Auto MDI-X
• Straight-Through and Crossover Cables - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 2.3
• Straight-Through, Crossover, and Rollover Cables - CompTIA Network+ N10-006 - 1.5
• CompTIA Network+ Cheat Sheet (Updated for Latest Exam) - StationX
• CompTIA® Network+ : Common TCP And UDP Default Ports - Tutorialsweb.Com
• A Guide to Network Troubleshooting - CompTIA

The most likely frequency range that the network consultant will have to support is 2.4GHz. This is because the most common legacy wireless standards, 802.11b and 802.11g, use the 2.4GHz range1. IEEE 802.11a uses 5GHz exclusively, and 5.9GHz and 6GHz are not widely used by legacy equipment. Therefore, A. 2.4GHz is the correct answer.

https://www.networkcomputing.com/networking/wireless-beginners-part-1-rf-and-waves

• A disaster recovery plan is a document that outlines the procedures and steps to restore the normal operations of a network in the event of a disaster, such as a fire, flood, power outage, cyberattack, or human error. It includes the roles and responsibilities of the staff, the backup and recovery strategies, the communication channels, the testing and maintenance schedules, and the inventory of the network assets and resources. A disaster recovery plan needs to be updated to reflect any changes in the network topology, configuration, or equipment, such as the installation of an additional IDF (Intermediate Distribution Frame), which is a wiring closet that connects the MDF (Main Distribution Frame) to the end devices. Updating the disaster recovery plan ensures that the network administrator has the most accurate and current information to restore the network in case of a disaster.
• A physical network diagram is a visual representation of the physical layout and connections of the network devices, such as routers, switches, firewalls, servers, workstations, printers, and cables. It shows the location, name, IP address, MAC address, and port number of each device, as well as the type, length, and color of each cable. A physical network diagram needs to be updated to reflect any changes in the network infrastructure, such as the installation of an additional IDF, which adds more devices and cables to the network. Updating the physical network diagram helps the network administrator to troubleshoot, monitor, and document the network performance and status.
• A data loss prevention policy is a document that defines the rules and guidelines to prevent the unauthorized access, disclosure, modification, or deletion of sensitive or confidential data on the network. It includes the classification of the data, the encryption and backup methods, the access control and authentication mechanisms, the audit and logging procedures, and the incident response and reporting protocols. A data loss prevention policy does not need to be updated to reflect the installation of an additional IDF, unless the IDF contains devices or cables that handle sensitive or confidential data, in which case the policy should specify the security measures and controls for those devices or cables.
• A BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy is a document that regulates the use of personal devices, such as smartphones, tablets, laptops, or USB drives, on the network. It includes the requirements and restrictions for the devices, the network access and security policies, the user rights and responsibilities, the support and maintenance services, and the legal and ethical implications. A BYOD policy does not need to be updated to reflect the installation of an additional IDF, unless the IDF affects the network access or security of the personal devices, in which case the policy should clarify the impact and the actions for the users.
• An acceptable use policy is a document that specifies the rules and expectations for the appropriate and ethical use of the network resources and services by the users. It includes the purpose and scope of the network, the acceptable and unacceptable behaviors and activities, the consequences and penalties for violations, and the user acknowledgment and agreement. An acceptable use policy does not need to be updated to reflect the installation of an additional IDF, unless the IDF changes the purpose or scope of the network, in which case the policy should inform the users of the changes and the implications.
• A non-disclosure agreement is a legal contract that binds the parties involved in the network project or service to keep the confidential information secret and not to share it with any unauthorized third parties. It includes the definition and scope of the confidential information, the duration and termination of the agreement, the exceptions and exclusions, the remedies and damages, and the signatures and dates of the parties. A non-disclosure agreement does not need to be updated to reflect the installation of an additional IDF, unless the IDF involves confidential information that is not covered by the existing agreement, in which case the agreement should be amended or renewed to include the new information. References:
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Network Operations, Section 3.1: Explain the importance of documentation and diagrams, Page 131-136
• Professor Messer’s Network+ N10-008 Course Notes, Page 20
• Professor Messer’s Network+ N10-008 Video Training Course, Section 3.1: Network Documentation, Video 3.1.1: Network Documentation Types

• Network traffic is the amount of data moving across a computer network at any given time. Network traffic is broken down into data packets and sent over a network before being reassembled by the receiving device or computer1.
• Network traffic has two directional flows, north-south and east-west. North-south traffic refers to client-to-server traffic that moves between the data center and the rest of the network (i.e., a location outside of the data center). East-west traffic refers to traffic within a data center, also known as server-to-server traffic12.
• A data center is a facility that houses computing and networking equipment, such as servers, switches, routers, firewalls, and storage devices. Data centers provide centralized processing, storage, and access to data and applications for organizations and users3.
• Data centers need to handle both north-south and east-west traffic efficiently and securely. North-south traffic is typically generated by users or customers who access data or applications hosted in the data center from the internet or other networks. East-west traffic is typically generated by applications or services that communicate with each other within the data center.
• The question asks which of the following describes traffic going in and out of a data center from the internet. The correct answer is B. North-South, because this is the type of traffic that flows between the data center and the external network. The other options are incorrect for the following reasons:
• 1: What Is Network Traffic? Definition and How To Monitor It
• 2: 32 Flashcards | Quizlet
• 3: Data center - Wikipedia
• : Data Center Traffic Patterns: North-South vs. East-West
• : Demarcation point - Wikipedia
• : Fibre Channel - Wikipedia
• : Spine and leaf - Wikipedia

Installing cameras in the server room is the best solution to identify who is responsible for the equipment being moved and misplaced. Cameras provide a way to monitor the server room in real time and can be used to identify suspicious activity. Additionally, they provide a way to review past activity and allow you to review footage to determine who may be responsible for the misplacement of equipment.

Cat 7 is a type of twisted-pair copper cable that supports up to 40 Gbps bandwidth and up to 100 meters cable length. Cat 7 is suitable for long cable runs that require high-speed data transmission. Cat 7 has better shielding and crosstalk prevention than lower categories of cables.

References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 1.5: Compare and contrast network cabling types, features and their purposes.

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

The other options are not correct because:

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

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

• A site survey is a process of analyzing the wireless environment and determining the optimal locations, configurations, and parameters for access points (APs). A site survey can help identify sources of interference, dead spots, signal strength, and coverage areas1.
• AP placement is the physical location of the APs in relation to the wireless clients, walls, ceilings, floors, and other obstacles. AP placement affects the signal quality, coverage, and performance of the wireless network2.
• The network administrator should check the site survey and the AP placement first when troubleshooting intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity issues, as these factors can directly impact the wireless signal and user experience.
• EIRP (Effective Isotropic Radiated Power) is the total power radiated by an antenna in a specific direction. EIRP is affected by the transmitter power, cable loss, and antenna gain3. EIRP is not the first thing to check, as it is usually configured according to the site survey and the regulatory standards.
• A captive portal is a web page that requires users to authenticate or accept some terms and conditions before accessing the wireless network. A captive portal can be used for security, marketing, or legal purposes. A captive portal is not the first thing to check, as it does not affect the wireless signal or connectivity, but only the access to the network resources.
• SSID (Service Set Identifier) is the name of a wireless network that is broadcasted by the APs. SSID assignment is the process of configuring the SSID on the APs and the wireless clients. SSID assignment is not the first thing to check, as it does not affect the wireless signal or connectivity, but only the identification of the network.
• AP association time is the time it takes for a wireless client to connect to an AP and establish a wireless link. AP association time is not the first thing to check, as it does not affect the wireless signal or connectivity, but only the initial connection process.

References:

• 1: Site Survey
• 2: AP Placement
• 3: EIRP
• : [Captive Portal]

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.

• A VLAN (virtual local area network) is a logical grouping of devices that share the same broadcast domain, regardless of their physical location or connection.
• VLANs can be used to separate different types of traffic on a network, such as data, voice, video, etc.
• VLANs can also improve network performance, security, and management by reducing the size of broadcast domains and limiting unnecessary traffic.
• To pass both data and telephony on an access port, the network engineer needs to configure the port as a trunk port, which can carry multiple VLANs using tags.
• The network engineer also needs to assign the data and voice devices to different VLANs, and enable quality of service (QoS) to prioritize the voice traffic over the data traffic.
• VoIP (voice over IP) is a technology that allows voice communication over an IP network, such as the Internet. VoIP is not a feature that can be configured on an access port, but rather a type of traffic that can be carried by a VLAN.
• VIP (virtual IP) is an IP address that is shared by multiple devices or servers, usually for load balancing or redundancy purposes. VIP is not a feature that can be configured on an access port, but rather a type of address that can be assigned to a device or server.
• VRRP (virtual router redundancy protocol) is a protocol that allows multiple routers to form a virtual router group and provide backup for each other in case of failure. VRRP is not a feature that can be configured on an access port, but rather a protocol that can be implemented on a router.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 3: Deploying Ethernet Switching, Section 3.2: VLANs and Trunking, pp. 111-1201
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course Notes, Section 3.2: VLANs and Trunking, pp. 28-292
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Training Course, Video 3.2: VLANs and Trunking3

Jitter is the variation in the delay of packets arriving at a destination. Jitter can cause problems for real-time applications, such as voice and video, that require consistent and smooth delivery of packets. A geographically remote office that connects to the main office via a WAN link may experience high jitter due to factors such as network congestion, routing changes, or link quality. Jitter can be reduced by using quality of service (QoS) mechanisms that prioritize and shape traffic according to its importance and sensitivity. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], What is Jitter? | Network Jitter Explained | SolarWinds

802.11n is a wireless standard that supports up to 600 Mbps data rate and operates in both the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequency bands. 802.11n uses multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) technology to increase the number of spatial streams and improve the wireless performance and range. 802.11n meets the requirements of the wireless network design.

References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 1.6: Explain the functions of network services.

PKI stands for Public Key Infrastructure, which is a system of processes, technologies, and policies that allows you to encrypt and sign data using digital certificates1. Digital certificates are issued by Certificate Authorities (CAs) and authenticate the identity of users, devices, or services that communicate online12. Digital certificates also provide the means to encrypt and decrypt messages between sender and receiver using public and private keys2

Uptime is a statistic that can be used to determine the availability of the remote network equipment. Uptime is the amount of time that a device or system has been running without experiencing any failures or disruptions. It is commonly expressed as a percentage of total time, such as 99.99% uptime. By measuring the uptime of the network equipment at the remote retail locations, the engineer can determine how reliable and available the equipment is.

An on-path attack (also known as a man-in-the-middle attack) is a type of security attack where the attacker places themselves between two devices (often a web browser and a web server) and intercepts or modifies communications between the two1. The attacker can then collect information as well as impersonate either of the two agents. For example, an on-path attacker could capture login credentials, redirect traffic to malicious sites, or inject malware into legitimate web pages.

The other options are not correct because they describe different types of attacks:

•IP spoofing is the practice of forging the source IP address of a packet to make it appear as if it came from a trusted or authorized source2.

•VLAN hopping is a technique that allows an attacker to access a VLAN that they are not authorized to access by sending packets with a modified VLAN tag3.

•Rogue DHCP is a scenario where an unauthorized DHCP server offers IP configuration parameters to clients on a network, potentially causing network disruption or redirection to malicious sites4.

References

2: Understanding Targeted Attacks: What is a Targeted Attack?

3: Types of attacks - Security on the web | MDN

1: What is an on-path attacker? | Cloudflare

4: [What is a Rogue DHCP Server? - Definition from Techopedia]

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

References:

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

Port 22 is used by Secure Shell (SSH), which is a protocol that provides a secure and encrypted method for remote access to hosts by using public-key cryptography and challenge-response authentication. SSH can be used to log in to a network switch and configure it without exposing the credentials or commands to eavesdropping or tampering. Port 23 is used by Telnet, which is an insecure and plaintext protocol for remote access. Port 80 is used by HTTP, which is a protocol for web communication. Port 123 is used by NTP, which is a protocol for time synchronization

An MX record is a type of DNS record that specifies the mail server responsible for accepting email messages on behalf of a domain name. Therefore, an engineer who needs to update an MX record is most likely working on an email server project

TACACS+ is used to authenticate users and authorize access to network resources. This protocol provides greater network security by encrypting the authentication credentials and reducing the risk of unauthorized access. According to the CompTIA Network+ Study Manual, “TACACS+ is an authentication protocol used to centralize authentication and authorization for network devices. It is a more secure alternative to Telnet for handling logins and for granting privileges to users.”

A water sensor is a type of environmental sensor that detects the presence of water or moisture in an area. A water sensor is most needed in a network main distribution frame (MDF) that is located in a basement near underground fiber-optic cables. A network MDF is a central point where all the network connections converge and where network equipment such as switches and routers are located. If water leaks into the basement and damages the fiber-optic cables or the network equipment, it can cause network outages, performance degradation, or data loss. A water sensor can alert the network administrator of any water intrusion and help prevent or minimize the damage. References: https://www.comptia.org/training/books/network-n10-008-study-guide (page 446)

The security principle of least privilege states that users or processes should only have the minimum level of access or permissions required to perform their tasks. This reduces the risk of unauthorized or malicious actions, as well as the impact of potential breaches. In this scenario, the systems operator is granted access to only the applications that are relevant to their role, and denied access to the applications that are not. This is an example of applying the least privilege principle. References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Certification Study Guide, Chapter 7: Network Security Concepts and Tools, Section 7.1: Common Security Concepts, Subsection: Least Privilege1
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course, Section 7.1: Common Security Concepts, Video: Least Privilege2

• The question asks about the topology that requires the most connections when designing a network.
• A topology is the physical or logical arrangement of devices and links on a network. Different topologies have different advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, performance, reliability, scalability, and security.
• The four topologies mentioned in the question are:
• Therefore, the answer is A, a mesh topology, as it requires the most connections when designing a network.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Study Guide, Chapter 1: Networking Concepts, Section 1.1: Network Topologies and Technologies, Pages 8-11
• Professor Messer’s CompTIA N10-008 Network+ Course, Video 1.1: Network Topologies and Technologies, Part 1
• Network + N10-008 practice exam, Question 989, Answer A, Explanation

Baseline configurations are the standard settings and parameters that are applied to network devices, such as switches, routers, firewalls, etc., to ensure consistent performance, security, and functionality across the network. Baseline configurations can include aspects such as IP addresses, VLANs, passwords, protocols, access lists, firmware versions, etc. Baseline configurations are usually documented and updated regularly to reflect any changes or modifications made to the network devices.

The lead network engineer most likely provided baseline configurations to the network administrator to ensure that the new switches are set up properly and in accordance with the network design and policies. Baseline configurations can help to simplify the deployment process, reduce errors and inconsistencies, and facilitate troubleshooting and maintenance.

The other options are not correct because they are not the most likely documentation that the lead network engineer provided to the network administrator. They are:

• Physical network diagram. A physical network diagram is a graphical representation of the physical layout and connections of the network devices and components, such as cables, ports, switches, routers, servers, etc. A physical network diagram can help to visualize the network topology, identify the locations and distances of the devices, and plan for cabling and power requirements. However, a physical network diagram does not provide the specific settings and parameters that need to be configured on the network devices, such as the switches.
• Site survey reports. A site survey report is a document that summarizes the findings and recommendations of a site survey, which is a process of assessing the suitability and readiness of a location for installing and operating network devices and components. A site survey report can include aspects such as environmental conditions, power and cooling availability, security and safety measures, interference and noise sources, signal coverage and quality, etc. A site survey report can help to identify and resolve any potential issues or challenges that may affect the network performance and reliability. However, a site survey report does not provide the specific settings and parameters that need to be configured on the network devices, such as the switches.
• Logical network diagram. A logical network diagram is a graphical representation of the logical structure and functionality of the network devices and components, such as subnets, IP addresses, VLANs, protocols, routing, firewall rules, etc. A logical network diagram can help to understand the network design, architecture, and policies, as well as the data flow and communication paths between the devices. However, a logical network diagram does not provide the specific settings and parameters that need to be configured on the network devices, such as the switches.

References1: Network+ (Plus) Certification | CompTIA IT Certifications2: What is a Baseline Configuration? - Definition from Techopedia3: What is a Physical Network Diagram? - Definition from Techopedia4: What is a Site Survey? - Definition from Techopedia5: [What is a Logical Network Diagram? - Definition from Techopedia]

Port mirroring is a technique that allows a network administrator to monitor the traffic on a specific port on a switch by sending a copy of the packets seen on that port to another port where a monitoring device is connected1. Port mirroring can be used to analyze and debug data, diagnose errors, or perform security audits on the network without affecting the normal operation of the switch

A password policy must be addressed to reduce the likelihood of a rainbow table being effective. A rainbow table is a precomputed table of hashed passwords and their corresponding plaintext values. A rainbow table can be used to crack hashed passwords by performing a reverse lookup of the hash value in the table. A password policy is a set of rules and guidelines that define how passwords should be created, used, and managed in an organization. A password policy can help prevent rainbow table attacks by enforcing strong password requirements, such as length, complexity, expiration, and history. A strong password is one that is hard to guess or crack by using common methods such as brute force or dictionary attacks. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], What Is Rainbow Table Attack? | Kaspersky, Password Policy Best Practices | Thycotic

"WPA uses Temporal Key Integrity Protocol (TKIP) for enhanced encryption. TKIP uses RC4 for the encryption algorithm, and the CompTIA Network+ exam may reference TKIP-RC4 in a discussion of wireless."

" WPA2 uses Counter Mode with Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code

Protocol (CCMP) for integrity checking and Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) for encryption. On the Network+ exam, you might find this referenced as simply CCMP-AES"

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

• Disabling unneeded switchports is a security best practice that prevents unauthorized devices from connecting to the network and potentially compromising its integrity or confidentiality.
• By disabling the switchports that are not in use, the network manager reduces the attack surface and the risk of rogue devices, such as laptops, printers, or cameras, from accessing the network.
• Disabling unneeded switchports can also prevent MAC flooding attacks, which occur when an attacker sends a large number of spoofed MAC addresses to a switch, causing it to overflow its MAC address table and forward all traffic to all ports, effectively turning the switch into a hub.
• To disable a switchport, the network manager can use the command switchport mode shutdown on the interface configuration mode of the switch.
• Changing the default VLAN, configuring DHCP snooping, and writing ACLs are also security measures that can be applied to switches, but they are not the most likely ones in this scenario.
• Changing the default VLAN can prevent VLAN hopping attacks, which occur when an attacker sends frames with double 802.1Q tags to a switch, causing it to forward the frames to another VLAN.
• Configuring DHCP snooping can prevent DHCP spoofing attacks, which occur when an attacker sets up a rogue DHCP server on the network and offers fake IP addresses and gateway information to unsuspecting clients, redirecting their traffic to the attacker’s device.
• Writing ACLs can prevent unauthorized access to the switch or the network resources, by filtering traffic based on source and destination IP addresses, ports, protocols, or other criteria. References:
• Network + N10-008 practice exam Flashcards | Quizlet
• Network+ N10-008 Practice Test | CertBlaster | Free CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

A captive portal is a web page that is displayed to a user before they can access the internet or other network resources. This is often used in public or guest networks to present users with a login or terms and conditions page before they can access the internet. If a captive portal is active on the WLAN, it would explain why the IoT sensor is only receiving HTTP redirections when trying to connect to the internet.

The most appropriate method to improve the security of the environment would be to implement role-based access control (RBAC). With RBAC, users are granted access to the network based on their role within the organization. This allows for more granular access control, as different roles may require different levels of access. Additionally, this ensures that users only have access to the resources they need and no more. This helps to reduce the risk of unauthorized access or misuse of the network. References and further information can be found in the CompTIA Network+ Study Manual, Chapter 8, Access Control.

RBAC is a method of restricting network access based on the roles of individual users within the organization. With RBAC, users are granted access only to the resources they need to perform their specific job functions. This approach reduces the risk of unauthorized access, provides greater visibility into user activity, and simplifies network management.

Changing the default permissions to implicit deny may improve security, but it could also cause issues for legitimate users who require access to specific resources. Configuring uniform ACLs and NAC for contractors is a step in the right direction, but it may not be enough to address the overall lack of a formal process for granting network permissions. Deploying an RDP server to centralize access to the network is not a viable solution, as it would not address the root cause of the security incidents.

Therefore, the most appropriate option is to implement role-based access control. Reference: CompTIA Network+ Study Guide, Fourth Edition, Chapter 7, section 7.4.

According to the network troubleshooting methodology, the first step a network administrator should take is to identify the problem. This involves gathering information from the users, the network devices, and the symptoms of the issue. Identifying the problem helps to narrow down the scope and the possible causes of the network issue.

References

• 1: Network troubleshooting methodology | CompTIA Network+ N10-008 …
• 2: Chapter 21. A Network Troubleshooting Methodology - CompTIA Network+ …
• 3: Network Troubleshooting Methodology – N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 5.1

Access points (APs) can be configured and centrally managed using a wireless LAN controller (WLC). A WLC is a device that connects to multiple APs and provides centralized management and control of those APs. The WLC can be used to configure settings such as wireless network parameters, security settings, and quality of service (QoS) policies. Additionally, the WLC can be used to monitor the status of connected APs, track client connections, and gather statistics on network usage. Some vendors such as Cisco, Aruba, Ruckus, etc. provide wireless LAN controllers as part of their wireless networking solutions.

tcpdump is a tool that can capture and analyze network traffic, including the certificate exchange between two hosts. It can display the contents of packets, such as the SSL/TLS handshake, which involves the exchange of certificates. dig is a tool that can query DNS servers for domain name information. nmap is a tool that can scan ports and services on a network. traceroute is a tool that can show the path and hops between a source and a destination.

The symptoms described—intermittent connectivity and thousands of connection attempts from unrecognized devices—strongly suggest a denial of service (DoS) attack. This type of attack typically involves overwhelming a network service with excessive requests, in this case to the wireless access point (WAP), which prevents legitimate network traffic from being processed effectively. Options like wrong SSID, interference, and poor coverage do not explain the high volume of connection attempts and are less likely to cause such a specific connectivity disruption pattern​​.

A slow download speed can be caused by a faulty patch cable, which is the cable used to connect the user's PC to the network server. If the patch cable is damaged, the connection will be slower than expected, resulting in slow download speeds. Replacing the patch cable is the most likely solution to this issue, as it will provide a new, reliable connection that should allow for faster download speeds.

A toner is a tool that generates an audible signal that can be traced by a probe. A network technician can use a toner to identify the appropriate patch panel port by connecting the toner to one end of the patch cord and using the probe to scan the patch panel until the signal is detected. A toner is the easiest way to identify the patch panel port when the patch panel is not labeled, as it does not require a laptop, a cable tester, or a visual fault locator. A toner can also be used to locate breaks or shorts in a cable, or to verify continuity.

References:

• Using a Toner and Probe - CompTIA Network+ Certification (N10-008): The Total Course Video
• CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 141

A WLAN controller is a device that manages and controls multiple wireless access points (WAPs) in a wireless LAN (WLAN). A WLAN controller has the capability to centrally manage configuration, logging, and firmware versioning for distributed WAPs. A WLAN controller can also provide load balancing, security, and quality of service (QoS) for the WLAN.

References: Network+ Study Guide Objective 3.1: Explain the purposes and use cases for advanced networking devices.

FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is a client-server based protocol, meaning that the two computers involved communicate with each other in a request-response pattern. The client sends a request to the server and the server responds with the requested data. This type of architecture is known as client-server, and it is used for many different types of applications, including FTP. Other architectures, such as service-oriented, connection-oriented, and data-centric, are not used for FTP.

 The power budget is the total amount of power that a PoE switch or injector can provide to the connected PoE devices. If the power budget is exceeded, some of the PoE devices may not receive enough power to function properly. To troubleshoot this issue, the network administrator should check the power consumption of each PoE device and the power capacity of the PoE switch or injector.

References:

• PoE Troubleshooting: The Common PoE Errors and Solutions1
• Security Camera Won’t Work - Top 10 Solutions to Fix2
• CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Exam Objectives

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

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

SIEM stands for Security Information and Event Management, and it is a system that collects, normalizes, and analyzes log data from different sources in a centralized platform. SIEM can help identify security incidents, monitor network performance, and generate reports and alerts. SIEM can make log analysis less difficult by providing a unified view of the log data, correlating events across different devices, and applying rules and filters to detect anomalies and patterns12.

References: 1: CompTIA Network+ N10-008 Cert Guide - Chapter 14: Network Monitoring32: Log Aggregation: What It Is & How It Works | Datadog4

Software-defined network (SDN) is a network architecture that allows the network-forwarding elements to be controlled by a centralized software application. This enables the network to adapt to new business requirements with the least amount of operating effort, as the network administrator can configure and manage the network from a single console, without having to manually configure each device individually. SDN also provides more flexibility, agility, and scalability for the network, as it can dynamically adjust the network resources and policies based on the application needs and traffic conditions.

References:

• CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives, page 5, section 1.3: “Explain the concepts and characteristics of routing and switching.”
• Software-Defined Networking – CompTIA Network+ N10-007 – 1.3, video lecture by Professor Messer.

• A botnet is a network of compromised devices that are remotely controlled by a malicious actor, usually for the purpose of launching distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, sending spam, stealing data, or performing other malicious activities1.
• A malware infection is a common way of compromising internet-connected devices and making them part of a botnet. Malware is any software that is designed to harm or exploit a device, a network, or a user. Malware can be delivered through various methods, such as phishing emails, malicious downloads, drive-by downloads, or removable media2. Malware can infect a device and allow a remote attacker to take control of it, monitor its activities, or use its resources3.
• The use of default credentials is another common way of compromising internet-connected devices and making them part of a botnet. Default credentials are the username and password combinations that are preconfigured by the manufacturer or vendor of a device, such as a router, a camera, or a printer. Default credentials are often easy to guess or find online, and many users do not change them after setting up their devices. This makes the devices vulnerable to unauthorized access and manipulation by attackers who can scan the internet for devices with default credentials and add them to their botnet .
• A deauthentication attack is a type of wireless attack that aims to disconnect a legitimate user from a wireless network by sending spoofed deauthentication frames to the user’s device or the access point (AP). A deauthentication attack can cause a denial of service, disrupt network communication, or facilitate other attacks, such as capturing the handshake during the reconnection process. However, a deauthentication attack does not compromise the device or make it part of a botnet.
• IP spoofing is a technique of forging the source IP address of a packet to make it appear as if it came from a different device or location. IP spoofing can be used to bypass security filters, hide the identity of the attacker, or launch reflection or amplification attacks. However, IP spoofing does not compromise the device or make it part of a botnet, unless it is combined with other methods, such as malware infection or exploitation of vulnerabilities.
• Firmware corruption is a condition where the firmware of a device, which is the software that controls its basic functions and operations, becomes damaged or altered due to various reasons, such as power surges, hardware failures, malicious attacks, or improper updates. Firmware corruption can cause the device to malfunction, lose data, or become inaccessible. However, firmware corruption does not compromise the device or make it part of a botnet, unless it is caused by a malicious attack that replaces the firmware with a malicious version.
• A dictionary attack is a type of brute-force attack that tries to guess the password of a user or a device by using a list of common or likely passwords, such as those found in a dictionary, a database, or a previous breach. A dictionary attack can be used to compromise a device and make it part of a botnet, but only if the device has a weak or predictable password. Therefore, a dictionary attack is not a direct way of compromising a device, but rather a means of exploiting the use of default or weak credentials.

References:

• 1: Botnet
• 2: Malware
• 3: How Malware Can Turn Your Device into a Botnet
• : [Default Credentials]
• : [How Default Credentials Can Lead to IoT Botnets]
• : [Deauthentication Attack]
• : [IP Spoofing]
• : [Firmware Corruption]
• : [Dictionary Attack]

Host-to-Site, or Client-to-Site, VPN allows for remote servers, clients, and other hosts to establish tunnels through a VPN gateway (or VPN headend) via a private network. The tunnel between the headend and the client host encapsulates and encrypts data.

"EMI is a problem when cables are installed near electrical devices, such as air conditioners or fluorescent light fixtures. If a network medium is placed close enough to such a device, the signal within the cable might become corrupt. Network media vary in their resistance to the effects of EMI. Standard unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable is susceptible to EMI, whereas fiber cable, with its light transmissions, is resistant to EMI. When deciding on a particular medium, consider where it will run and the impact EMI can have on the installation."

According to the CompTIA Network+ troubleshooting model123, this is the first step in troubleshooting a network problem. The technician should gather information about the current state of the network, such as error messages, device status, network topology, and user feedback. This can help narrow down the scope of the problem and eliminate possible causes.

A CNAME (Canonical Name) record is a type of DNS (Domain Name System) record that maps an alias name to a canonical or true domain name. For example, a CNAME record can map blog.example.com to example.com, which means that blog.example.com is an alias of example.com. A CNAME record is useful when you want to point multiple subdomains to the same IP address, or when you want to change the IP address of a domain without affecting the subdomains1.

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

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?

A cable was looped and created a broadcast storm is the most likely explanation for the symptoms of high CPU usage and blinking lights on the switch. A cable loop is a situation where a switch port is connected to another switch port on the same switch or another switch, creating a circular path for network traffic. A cable loop can cause a broadcast storm, which is a network phenomenon where a large number of broadcast or multicast packets are flooded on the network, consuming bandwidth and CPU resources. A broadcast storm can cause network congestion, performance degradation, or failure. A cable loop can occur when an employee rearranges the wiring closet without proper documentation or verification. A cable loop can be prevented or detected by using Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) or loop detection features on the switch. References: [CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Objectives], What Is a Broadcast Storm? | Definition & Examples | Forcepoint

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.

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

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/

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

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

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. 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

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

 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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/

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

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

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 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

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