N10-009 CompTIA Network+ Certification Exam Questions and Answers

When dealing with troubleshooting and change management, the plan of action outlines the steps, risks, and mitigation strategies. A change advisory board (CAB) uses this documented plan to decide whether to approve the change.

A. Identify the problem is the first step in troubleshooting, not decision-making for CAB.

B. Develop a theory is diagnostic work, not planning.

C. Test the theory confirms causes but doesn’t provide actionable planning information.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Operations — Change management, troubleshooting methodology, CAB processes.

The most probable issue is with thetransceiver model. Not all transceivers are compatible with multimode fiber, and the specific type (e.g., SFP, SFP+) and its wavelength must match the fiber cable type. If a port works on one switch but not the other with the same cable, this is a strong indicator of incompatible or faulty transceiver hardware.

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) provides scalable compute power, storage, and networking resources on demand. It is the best choice for a company that needs to customize its cloud solution based on size, compute capacity, and storage needs.

IaaS Benefits:

Provides virtual machines, storage, and networking resources.

Scalable based on company needs.

Reduces the need for physical infrastructure.

Incorrect Options:

A. SaaS (Software as a Service): Delivers software applications (e.g., Google Docs, Microsoft 365) but does not provide compute/storage infrastructure.

B. PaaS (Platform as a Service): Provides a development environment for application deployment but not full infrastructure control.

D. IaC (Infrastructure as Code): A methodology for automating infrastructure, not a cloud deployment model.

NTP (Network Time Protocol) synchronizes clocks across network devices, ensuring accurate timestamps in logs. This is critical for correlating events across different systems during investigations.

A. Syslog collects logs but relies on accurate timestamps already present.

B. SMTP is an email protocol, unrelated to time synchronization.

C. SNMP is for monitoring and management, not time.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Operations — Time synchronization (NTP), log correlation, security operations.

TCP port 443 is reserved for HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure), which uses TLS encryption to secure web traffic. It is the standard port for encrypted web communications.

A. Telnet uses TCP port 23.

B. SMTP commonly uses TCP ports 25, 465, or 587.

D. SNMP typically uses UDP ports 161 (queries) and 162 (traps).

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Standards, Protocols, and Implementations — Common ports and services.

NAT (Network Address Translation) helps hide internal IP addresses from external networks, adding a layer of security by preventing direct access to internal systems from the outside.

An Intrusion Detection System (IDS) monitors and analyzes traffic to detect suspicious activity but does not sit in the traffic path, meaning it doesn’t affect latency. In contrast, an IPS is in-line and can introduce delay.

From Andrew Ramdayal’s guide:

“IDS monitors and alerts on malicious activity but does not block traffic, making it suitable for environments where low latency is critical.”

Introduction to Subinterfaces:

Subinterfaces are logical interfaces created on a single physical interface. They are used to enable a router to support multiple networks on a single physical interface.

Use Case for Subinterfaces:

Subinterfaces are commonly used in scenarios where VLANs are implemented. A router with a single physical LAN port can be configured with multiple subinterfaces, each associated with a different VLAN.

This setup allows the router to route traffic between different VLANs.

Example Configuration:

Consider a router with a single physical interface GigabitEthernet0/0 and two VLANs, 10 and 20.

interface GigabitEthernet0/0.10

encapsulation dot1Q 10

ip address 192.168.10.1 255.255.255.0

!

interface GigabitEthernet0/0.20

encapsulation dot1Q 20

ip address 192.168.20.1 255.255.255.0

The encapsulation dot1Q command specifies the VLAN ID.

Explanation of the Options:

A. A router with only one available LAN port: This is correct. Subinterfaces allow a single physical interface to manage multiple networks, making it essential for routers with limited physical interfaces.

B. A firewall performing deep packet inspection: Firewalls can use subinterfaces, but it is not a requirement for deep packet inspection.

C. A hub utilizing jumbo frames: Hubs do not use subinterfaces as they operate at Layer 1 and do not manage IP addressing.

D. A switch using Spanning Tree Protocol: STP is a protocol for preventing loops in a network and does not require subinterfaces.

Conclusion:

Subinterfaces provide a practical solution for routing between multiple VLANs on a router with limited physical interfaces. They allow network administrators to optimize the use of available hardware resources efficiently.

An incorrect pinout on the patch cable could prevent network connectivity due to mismatched wiring. Even if the cables are the correct length and type, a pinout issue can cause continuity problems and prevent data transmission. Proper crimping with the correct pinout is essential for network cables to function. (Reference: CompTIA Network+ Study Guide, Chapter on Network Media and Topologies)

Ping sends ICMP Echo Request packets and waits for Echo Replies to verify host reachability and measure round-trip time.

A. tcpdump captures packets but does not test reachability.

B. netstat displays open ports and network sessions.

C. nslookup queries DNS servers for name resolution.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Networking Concepts — ICMP operation, troubleshooting tools.

When signal strength is poor, mobile devices constantly boost their transmission power in an attempt to maintain a stable connection. This results in dropped calls/data and rapid battery drain. Since a repeater was installed, misalignment or misconfiguration could be degrading the signal strength.

A. WPS applies to Wi-Fi, not cellular repeaters.

C. Channel frequency might matter for interference, but signal strength is the most direct cause of the described symptoms.

D. Power budget applies to PoE and wired devices, not mobile phones.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Troubleshooting — Wireless/cellular troubleshooting, signal strength impact, user symptoms (battery drain, poor connectivity).

If a switch has port security enabled (such as sticky MAC or a configured allowed MAC), the port will only allow the original NIC’s MAC address. When a new NIC with a different MAC address is installed, the port rejects traffic, preventing network connectivity.

B. BPDU guard protects against rogue switches, not end hosts.

C. Link aggregation applies when bundling multiple uplinks, not a single PC connection.

D. PoE budget applies to powered devices like APs, not PCs.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Troubleshooting — Port security, MAC address filtering, switch security features.

To support at least 260 hosts, you need at least 512 total IP addresses (accounting for network/broadcast overhead).

/23 (255.255.254.0) gives 510 usable IPs, ideal for 260 devices with minimal waste.

/24 (255.255.255.0) gives only 254 usable — not enough.

/22 (1022 usable) and /21 (2046 usable) would work but result in significant address waste.

???? Reference:

CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Objectives: 2.1 – Given a scenario, configure and apply IP addressing schemes.

The correct solution is a Data Center Interconnect (DCI). DCIs extend Layer 2 networks across geographically dispersed data centers, enabling seamless replication of services such as SAN storage, backup synchronization, or VM migrations. This ensures workloads and data can move between sites while maintaining the same VLANs and addressing.

A. Security Service Edge (SSE) provides cloud-delivered security functions like secure web gateways and CASB, not Layer 2 extension.

C. Infrastructure as code (IaC) automates deployment and management of network infrastructure but is unrelated to extending Layer 2 domains.

D. Zero Trust architecture is a security framework ensuring strict access control but doesn’t address network connectivity between sites.

In scenarios where backups need replication between sites, Layer 2 extension is often required so systems can communicate as if they are in the same broadcast domain. DCI is specifically designed to provide this functionality reliably and securely.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Infrastructure — WAN technologies, data center interconnect, backup replication.

Switches in sealed enclosures are at risk of overheating because airflow is restricted. The temperature factor is critical since heat buildup can damage components, shorten device lifespan, and cause outages. Proper cooling or ventilation must be ensured.

A. Fire suppression is important for data centers but not the primary concern in a sealed box.

B. Power budget applies to PoE allocations, not environmental safety.

D. Humidity matters, but overheating is far more immediate in sealed environments.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Infrastructure — Environmental considerations, switch installation, temperature control.

Multitenancy is a cloud computing architecture where a single instance of software serves multiple customers or tenants. Each tenant's data is isolated and remains invisible to other tenants. Hosting a company application in the cloud to be available for both internal and third-party users fits this concept, as it allows shared resources and infrastructure while maintaining data separation and security. References: CompTIA Network+ Exam Objectives and official study guides.

BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policies define rules for using personal devices on the company network. Since the new employee is using a personal laptop, this policy applies.

Breakdown of Options:

A. IAM (Identity and Access Management) – Governs user permissions, not device policies.

B. BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) – ✅ Correct answer. Covers using personal devices for work.

C. DLP (Data Loss Prevention) – Focuses on preventing sensitive data leaks, not device usage policies.

D. AUP (Acceptable Use Policy) – Covers internet and system usage, but not personal device rules.

The correct answer is hub-and-spoke. In this design, the head office serves as the hub, and all satellite or branch offices (the spokes) connect directly to the hub using leased lines or VPNs. Communication between spokes typically passes through the hub, which centralizes connectivity and simplifies management.

A. Mesh involves every site connecting to every other site, which is more redundant but costly.

B. Point-to-point describes a single dedicated link between two sites, not a multi-site topology.

D. Star is often used in LAN switching, with all devices connecting to a central switch, but it’s not the WAN architecture typically used here.

Hub-and-spoke is a cost-effective WAN design, as fewer circuits are needed compared to full mesh. However, its main disadvantage is reliance on the hub site: if the hub goes down, inter-spoke communication fails.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Networking Concepts — WAN topologies (hub-and-spoke, mesh, point-to-point).

A jump box is a hardened system that provides secure access to isolated or sensitive devices on a separate network.

Breakdown of Options:

A. Jump box – ✅ Correct answer. Acts as a middle point for secure remote access.

B. API gateway – Used for managing API calls, not remote access to isolated devices.

C. Secure Shell (SSH) – Requires direct connectivity, which may not be available for an isolated device.

D. Clientless VPN – Allows web-based VPN access, but does not guarantee access to isolated devices.

•Too much overlap on the same channel (all devices on channel 11) causes interference, leading to retransmissions and high latency.

•Same SSIDs (A) are expected in mesh networks.

•Device compatibility (C) would show different symptoms.

•Node power (D) affects coverage, not congestion.

????Reference: CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Documentation – Wireless Troubleshooting & Signal Interference.

The Network layer (Layer 3 of the OSI model) can utilize the connectionless protocol IP (Internet Protocol) to send data packets independently without establishing a connection. This approach is typical for protocols like IP, which provide best-effort delivery rather than guaranteed delivery. The document explains:

“The OSI Network Layer is responsible for logical addressing and routing, and it can utilize connectionless protocols like IP to send packets without requiring a session setup. This layer does not guarantee packet delivery, relying on higher layers for error detection or correction if needed.”

Servers shut down due to overheating, not loss of electrical power. Although UPS units had battery life, without cooling systems (HVAC/air conditioning) running on backup power, server rooms overheated. Backup power for air-conditioning is essential in data center design.

B. Door locks are unrelated to server shutdown.

C. Increasing UPS capacity won’t help cooling.

D. IoT thermostats may monitor temperature but won’t prevent overheating.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Infrastructure — Environmental controls, power redundancy, HVAC systems.

The maximum recommended length for Ethernet cable runs is 100 meters (328 feet). At 150 meters, the Cat 6 cable is too long, causing signal degradation and connectivity issues. Running fiber from the distribution switch to an access switch in the annex will allow for reliable connectivity over longer distances, as fiber can cover greater distances without signal loss. (Reference: CompTIA Network+ Study Guide, Chapter on Network Cable Standards)

Understanding MTBF:

Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF): A reliability metric that estimates the average time between successive failures of a device or system.

Calculation and Importance:

Calculation: MTBF is calculated as the total operational time divided by the number of failures during that period.

Usage: Used by manufacturers and engineers to predict the lifespan and reliability of a device, helping in maintenance planning and lifecycle management.

Comparison with Other Metrics:

RTO (Recovery Time Objective): The maximum acceptable time to restore a system after a failure.

RPO (Recovery Point Objective): The maximum acceptable amount of data loss measured in time.

MTTR (Mean Time to Repair): The average time required to repair a device or system and return it to operational status.

Application:

MTBF is crucial for planning maintenance schedules, spare parts inventory, and improving the overall reliability of systems.

The correct solution is to configure the connecting ports as trunk ports. When connecting switches, the uplink ports must be configured to carry traffic for multiple VLANs (trunking), not just a single access VLAN. Without trunking, VLAN tags may be dropped, and traffic from hosts will not reach the rest of the network or internet.

B. STP cables is a misnomer — STP refers to Spanning Tree Protocol or Shielded Twisted Pair cables, neither of which solves this logical configuration issue.

C. PoE budget is irrelevant because switches and hosts in this context don’t require PoE.

D. Link aggregation (LACP, EtherChannel) is for increasing bandwidth/redundancy across multiple links, not required with a single cable.

By enabling trunking on the uplink ports, the switches can pass VLAN-tagged traffic, ensuring hosts connected to the new switch have access to the same resources as those on the existing switch.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Troubleshooting — VLAN trunking, inter-switch connectivity.

Broadcast traffic is sent to all nodes on the network. In a broadcast, a single packet is transmitted to all devices in the network segment. This is commonly used for tasks like ARP (Address Resolution Protocol) requests.

Broadcast Domain: All devices within the same broadcast domain will receive broadcast traffic.

Network Types: Ethernet networks commonly use broadcast traffic for certain functions, including network discovery and addressing.

IPv4 Broadcast: An IPv4 broadcast address (e.g., 255.255.255.255) ensures the packet is sent to all devices on the network.

Network References:

CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Official Certification Guide: Explains network traffic types, including broadcast, unicast, and multicast.

Cisco Networking Academy: Provides training on network communication methods and traffic types.

Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide: Discusses different types of network traffic and their uses in various network scenarios.

Broadcast traffic is essential for network operations that require communication with all nodes, such as ARP requests or DHCP discovery messages.

After implementing the solution, the immediate next step is to verify full system functionality. This confirms that the problem has been resolved and helps ensure no new issues have been introduced.

From Andrew Ramdayal’s guide:

“After the solution is implemented, test the system to ensure that it is fully operational, and the original problem has been resolved. Also, put in place any measures that could prevent the issue from recurring.”

The longest prefix match is a routing concept used to find the most specific route to a destination IP address. The routing table performs this calculation to determine the exit interface for a packet, ensuring the most accurate delivery. The document explains:

“Routers use the longest prefix match when searching the routing table to determine the best path for an IP packet. This ensures that the most specific (and thus optimal) route is chosen, based on the destination IP address.”

A Power Distribution Unit (PDU) provides multiple power outlets in a data center or IDF (Intermediate Distribution Frame), while offering features like surge protection, load balancing, and sometimes remote monitoring, making it a cost-effective and reliable solution. The document confirms:

“PDUs (Power Distribution Units) are a cost-effective way to expand outlet capacity in a structured cabling environment like an IDF. They ensure safe power delivery to networking equipment and often include monitoring features.”

A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) provides backup power to devices during a power outage, allowing for continuous operation and protecting against sudden shutdowns that could cause data loss or equipment damage. The document confirms:

“A UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) is essential for maintaining power to critical devices during an outage, protecting data and ensuring continuous operation until power is restored or a safe shutdown can be performed.”

Least privilege network access is a principle that restricts users' access rights to only what is necessary for them to perform their job functions. In this case, the accountant's access is limited to only the financial department's shared folders, ensuring that they cannot access other parts of the network unnecessarily. This reduces the risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches. References: CompTIA Network+ Exam Objectives and official study guides.

When the hosts file is altered, local name resolution is compromised, and domain queries are redirected to malicious IP addresses. This is a form of DNS spoofing/poisoning, where false mappings trick users into visiting fraudulent websites.

B. Phishing typically uses emails or messages to trick users, not local file modification.

C. VLAN hopping is a Layer 2 attack to gain unauthorized network access, unrelated to DNS.

D. ARP poisoning manipulates ARP tables on a LAN to reroute traffic, not name resolution.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — DNS poisoning/spoofing, host file manipulation, endpoint attacks.

Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is the primary protocol used to route traffic on the public internet. It allows ISPs and large networks to exchange routing information, making it an Exterior Gateway Protocol (EGP).

Breakdown of Options:

A. BGP – Correct answer. Used for internet routing and exchanges routing information between ISPs.

B. OSPF – An Interior Gateway Protocol (IGP) used for routing within an autonomous system (not the public internet).

C. EIGRP – Cisco’s proprietary IGP, used within private networks, not the public internet.

D. RIP – An older distance-vector protocol, not scalable for the internet.

Quality of Service (QoS): This is a feature used in networking to prioritize certain types of traffic. By configuring QoS, network administrators can allocate higher bandwidth to time-sensitive applications like VoIP, video conferencing, or critical business applications during peak usage times. This helps to reduce latency and packet loss, which are often caused by congestion.

Load Balancing (A): While load balancing is useful in distributing traffic across multiple servers or paths, it does not address congestion on a single switch.

Port Mirroring (B): This is used for monitoring network traffic for troubleshooting and diagnostics but does not alleviate congestion.

Spanning Tree Protocol (D): STP prevents switching loops in redundant network topologies, but it is not designed to handle traffic prioritization or congestion issues.

The issue is that no root bridge has been identified. In STP, a root bridge is necessary to manage redundant paths and avoid loops in the network. Without a root bridge, all switches will assume they can forward traffic, causing a network loop and connectivity problems.

=================

Introduction to Administrative Distance

Administrative distance (AD) is a value used by routers to rank routes from different routing protocols. AD represents the trustworthiness of the source of the route. Lower AD values are more preferred. If a router has multiple routes to a destination from different sources, it will choose the route with the lowest AD.

Static Routes and Backup Routes

When a dynamic routing protocol is not used, static routes can be employed. Static routes are manually configured routes. To ensure a backup route, multiple static routes to the same destination can be configured with different AD values.

Configuring Static Routes with Administrative Distance

The primary route is configured with a lower AD value, making it the preferred route. The backup route is configured with a higher AD value. In the event of the primary route failure, the router will then use the backup route.

Example Configuration:

plaintext

Copy code

ip route 192.168.1.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.1 1

ip route 192.168.1.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2 10

In the above example, 192.168.1.0/24 is the destination network.

10.0.0.1 is the next-hop IP address for the primary route with an AD of 1.

10.0.0.2 is the next-hop IP address for the backup route with an AD of 10.

Verification:

After configuration, use the show ip route command to verify that the primary route is in use and the backup route is listed as a candidate for use if the primary route fails.

The CompTIA Troubleshooting Methodology states that after testing the theory, the next step is to establish a plan of action to resolve the issue.

Troubleshooting Steps:

Identify the problem.

Establish a theory of probable cause.

Test the theory to determine the cause.

Establish a plan of action and implement the solution. ✅ (Correct step)

Verify full system functionality.

Document findings, actions, and outcomes.

Breakdown of Options:

A. Verify full system functionality – Happens after implementing the solution.

B. Document the findings and outcomes – Final step, happens after resolving the issue.

C. Establish a plan of action – ✅ Correct answer. Comes immediately after confirming the cause.

D. Identify the problem – First step, already completed.

AnAccess Control List (ACL)configured on theedge firewallis the correct and most effective solution tofilter inbound traffic. The administrator can allow TCP port 443 (HTTPS) and deny all other traffic. This is a classic firewall configuration for securing public-facing servers.

Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is designed to detect and prevent Layer 2 loops by blocking redundant paths. If loops are possible in the design, enabling STP ensures network stability.

B. Port security controls endpoint MAC addresses, not loops.

C. Speed limits address bandwidth, not loop prevention.

D. 802.1Q tagging allows VLAN separation but does not resolve loops.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Operations — Loop prevention, spanning tree, switch design.

A screenshot of a computer AI-generated content may be incorrect.

A screenshot of a computer AI-generated content may be incorrect.

A screenshot of a computer AI-generated content may be incorrect.

When deploying multiple Power over Ethernet (PoE) devices, the switch’s power budget can be exhausted. If the available wattage on the switch cannot supply the additional AP, it will fail to power on. This is the most likely cause when previous APs worked fine but a new one does not.

A. Signal strength affects wireless connectivity, not whether the AP powers up.

B. Duplex mismatch causes poor throughput, not power failure.

D. CRC errors point to cabling issues but do not prevent booting if no power is available.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Troubleshooting — PoE power budget considerations, device startup issues.

ESP (Encapsulating Security Payload) is an IPsec protocol that provides encryption, integrity, and authentication for data inside a VPN tunnel. It ensures that all tunneled traffic is encrypted.

B. SSH secures remote terminal sessions, not site-to-site VPN tunnels.

C. GRE (Generic Routing Encapsulation) provides encapsulation but does not encrypt data.

D. IKE (Internet Key Exchange) negotiates keys and establishes the IPsec tunnel but does not encrypt the payload itself.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — VPN protocols, IPsec (AH vs. ESP), encryption in transit.

Quality of Service (QoS) is crucial for real-time services like video conferencing. It prioritizes voice and video packets over less critical traffic (like file downloads), reducing latency, jitter, and packet loss.

B. Network signal may apply to wireless, but it's not specific to video issues.

C. Time to live (TTL) affects packet lifespan, not performance or quality.

D. Load balancing manages traffic across multiple paths but doesn’t prioritize real-time traffic like QoS does.

???? Reference:

CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Objectives: 3.6 – Explain the characteristics of network topologies and types.

The default gateway for a network should be an IP address within the subnet, but not the broadcast address. In this case:

IP: 192.163.1.15

Subnet Mask: 255.255.255.0

This means the network range is: 192.163.1.0 - 192.163.1.255

192.163.1.255 is the broadcast address for this subnet, so it cannot be used as a gateway.

Hence, the device fails to communicate outside its subnet because it's trying to use a broadcast address as its gateway.

✅ The issue is clearly with the gateway configuration.

Content filtering can be used to block or restrict access to websites and services that facilitate torrenting and other prohibited activities. By implementing content filtering, the company can comply with the ISP's cease-and-desist order and prevent users from accessing torrent sites and engaging in prohibited activities.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials.

This process describes Zero-touch provisioning (ZTP), where a device automatically pulls its configuration from a cloud controller or URL once connected to the internet. It's common in SD-WAN and modern network appliances.

A. SASE (Secure Access Service Edge) refers to cloud-delivered network security, not a provisioning method.

C. Infrastructure as code automates infrastructure deployment using code, but this scenario specifically fits ZTP.

D. Configuration management tracks and maintains system configurations but doesn't describe the installation process.

???? Reference:

CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Objectives: 4.3 – Explain remote access methods and automation.

Microwaves are known to interfere with the 2.4GHz frequency, which is the same frequency used by many wireless networks. This can cause signal degradation and intermittent connectivity issues, especially if the WAP is placed near such devices.

=================

Nmap (Network Mapper) is a powerful network scanning tool used to discover hosts and services on a computer network. It can be used to identify which ports are open on a remote server, which can help diagnose access issues to services like a remote file server.

Port Scanning: Nmap can perform comprehensive port scans to determine which ports are open and what services are running on those ports.

Network Discovery: It provides detailed information about the host’s operating system, service versions, and network configuration.

Security Audits: Besides troubleshooting, Nmap is also used for security auditing and identifying potential vulnerabilities.

Network References:

CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Official Certification Guide: Covers network scanning tools and their uses.

Nmap Documentation: Official documentation provides extensive details on how to use Nmap for port scanning and network diagnostics.

Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide: Discusses various network utilities, including Nmap, and their applications in network troubleshooting.

VLAN hopping allows an attacker to send traffic into another VLAN without authorization, often by impersonating a switch and negotiating a trunk link. This lets the attacker traverse into normally inaccessible VLANs.

A. MAC flooding disrupts switch operations but does not cross VLANs.

B. DNS poisoning corrupts name resolution.

D. ARP spoofing reroutes local traffic but doesn’t grant VLAN traversal.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — VLAN attacks, unauthorized lateral movement.

NAT (Network Address Translation) allows multiple private IP addresses to share a single public IP when accessing the internet. This conserves public IPs and provides basic security by hiding internal addresses.

B. BGP is a routing protocol.

C. OSPF is a link-state IGP.

D. FHRP provides redundant gateways, not IP sharing.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Networking Concepts — NAT, PAT, private-to-public IP mapping.

The three-tier hierarchical model in network design consists of three layers: access, distribution, and core. The access layer is where devices like PCs and printers connect to the network. The distribution layer aggregates the data received from the access layer switches before it is transmitted to the core layer, which is responsible for high-speed data transfer and routing. This approach improves scalability and performance in larger networks. References: CompTIA Network+ Exam Objectives and official study guides.

Confidentiality with Data at Rest: Confidentiality is a core principle of data security, ensuring that data stored (at rest) is only accessible to authorized individuals. This protection is achieved through mechanisms such as encryption, access controls, and permissions.

Privileged Access: The statement "Data can be accessed after privileged access is granted" aligns with the confidentiality principle, as it restricts data access to users who have been granted specific permissions or roles. Only those with the appropriate credentials or permissions can access the data.

Incorrect Options:

A. "Data can be accessed by anyone on the administrative network." This violates the principle of confidentiality by allowing unrestricted access.

B. "Data can be accessed remotely with proper training." This focuses on remote access rather than restricting access based on privileges.

D. "Data can be accessed after verifying the hash." This option relates more to data integrity rather than confidentiality.

CompTIA Network+ materials on data security principles, particularly sections on confidentiality and access control mechanisms​​.

A hybrid cloud deployment model is the best choice for the CTO's requirements. It allows the organization to run key services from the on-site data center while leveraging the cloud for enterprise services. This approach provides flexibility, scalability, and cost savings, while also minimizing disruptions to users by keeping critical services local. The hybrid model integrates both private and public cloud environments, offering the benefits of both.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials and cloud computing principles.

Out-of-band (OOB) managementallows administrators to manage devices remotely even if the primary network is down. This is especially useful when physical access to the server is not possible. OOB management often uses a separate management interface, ensuring access regardless of the server's operational state.

Installing server equipment in a rack increases compute density by allowing multiple servers to be organized efficiently in a vertical configuration, saving space while housing more devices in a smaller footprint. This is critical for data centers and businesses with high hardware demands.

Simplified troubleshooting process (A): While racks can aid in organizing equipment, this is a secondary benefit, not the primary purpose.

Decreased power consumption (B): Rack installation does not directly reduce power usage; equipment power consumption remains the same.

Improved network performance (C): Racking servers does not inherently improve network performance; that depends on network configurations.

A warm site typically has a full infrastructure ready, but it lacks the most up-to-date data or is not immediately operational. It requires some configuration or data restoration to become fully functional.

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Network segmentation involves dividing a network into smaller segments or subnets. This is particularly important when integrating OT (Operational Technology) devices to ensure that these devices are isolated from other parts of the network. Segmentation helps protect the OT devices from potential threats and minimizes the impact of any security incidents. It also helps manage traffic and improves overall network performance.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials.

The correct answer is golden configuration. This is a reference standard or baseline that defines the approved settings and rules devices should follow. Any deviation from the golden configuration indicates drift or misconfiguration that must be remediated.

A. Production refers to the live environment but doesn’t define a standard.

B. Backup configurations are stored copies, not the standard rules.

C. Candidate configuration is a proposed change being tested, not the final baseline.

By enforcing golden configurations, administrators ensure compliance, maintain security standards, and improve consistency across the enterprise.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Operations — Configuration standards, golden images/configs.

The customer can access local resources (a database server), which means local networking is working. However, the inability to reach the internet suggests an issue with the default gateway. If the default gateway is unreachable, packets will not be routed outside the local network.

Breakdown of Options:

A. Incorrect DNS – DNS issues would cause problems resolving domain names, but the user should still be able to access external resources via IP addresses.

B. Unreachable gateway – ✅ Correct answer. If the default gateway is incorrect or unreachable, the device cannot route traffic to the internet.

C. Failed root bridge – STP (Spanning Tree Protocol) failures cause switching issues, but the user can still access local devices, meaning STP is not the problem.

D. Poor upstream routing – Would affect the entire network, not just one user.

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) uses attributes like AS path, origin, and MED (multi-exit discriminator) to determine the best path among multiple available routes.

From Andrew Ramdayal’s guide:

“BGP is the protocol underlying the global routing system of the internet. It is used for routing data between autonomous systems (ASes)... BGP uses a path vector mechanism and maintains a list of attributes for route selection.”

The first step in any troubleshooting process is to identify the problem. This includes gathering information from the user, reviewing logs, and observing the symptoms. In this case, identifying the scope and nature of the issue (e.g., signs of ransomware) is critical before forming any theories or plans.

From Andrew Ramdayal’s guide:

“The troubleshooting methodology begins with identifying the problem. This step involves questioning users, identifying user changes, and determining the symptoms.”

MIBs (Management Information Bases) define the variables and objects that SNMP can query on a device. If the monitoring server authenticates but cannot interpret the data, it likely lacks the correct MIB for that vendor or model. Importing the proper MIB allows the monitoring server to correctly display device status and metrics.

A. Using a public community string is insecure and not related to missing MIBs.

C. Switchport analyzer (SPAN) captures traffic for packet analysis, not SNMP monitoring.

D. SNMPv3 privacy adds encryption but doesn’t fix missing MIB interpretation.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Operations — SNMP, MIBs, network monitoring systems.

Jumbo frames are Ethernet frames with a payload greater than the standard maximum transmission unit (MTU) of 1500 bytes. Configuring jumbo frames can reduce overhead and increase efficiency in storage networks by allowing more data to be sent in each frame, thus reducing the number of frames needed to transmit the same amount of data.

Reduced Overhead: By sending larger frames, the relative overhead for headers and acknowledgments is reduced.

Increased Efficiency: Larger frames mean fewer packets to process, leading to better utilization of network bandwidth and improved performance in high-throughput environments like storage networks.

Configuration: Requires support from all devices in the network path, including switches and network interface cards (NICs).

Network References:

CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Official Certification Guide: Explains jumbo frames and their benefits in reducing network overhead.

Cisco Networking Academy: Provides training on network optimization techniques, including the use of jumbo frames.

Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide: Covers advanced Ethernet features, including jumbo frames and their configuration for improved network performance.

Single Sign-On (SSO) enables a user to access multiple resources or applications with one set of credentials, improving usability and security. The document confirms:

“Single Sign-On (SSO) allows a user to authenticate once and gain access to multiple resources or applications without needing to log in again for each. It streamlines the login process and improves security by reducing the number of passwords that need to be managed.”

A jump box is a hardened, isolated system that provides secure access to critical infrastructure devices like routers and firewalls.

Understanding ACLs:

Access Control Lists (ACLs): A set of rules used to control network traffic and restrict access to network resources by filtering packets based on IP addresses, protocols, or ports.

Implementing Security Zones:

Defining Zones: ACLs can be used to create security zones by applying specific rules to different departments, ensuring that only authorized traffic is allowed between these zones.

Control Traffic: ACLs control inbound and outbound traffic at network boundaries, enforcing security policies and preventing unauthorized access.

Comparison with Other Options:

Port Security: Limits the number of devices that can connect to a switch port, preventing MAC address flooding attacks, but not used for defining security zones.

Content Filtering: Blocks or allows access to specific content based on predefined policies, typically used for web filtering rather than network segmentation.

NAC (Network Access Control): Controls access to the network based on the security posture of devices but does not define security zones.

Implementation Steps:

Define ACL rules based on the requirements of each department.

Apply these rules to the appropriate network interfaces or firewall policies to segment the network into security zones.

Link aggregation(also known as port channeling or EtherChannel) allows multiple physical connections to act as one logical connection. This avoids loops that would typically be prevented by STP and provides redundancy and increased bandwidth. It's ideal when STP is not available or desirable.

An on-path attack (formerly known as a man-in-the-middle (MITM) attack) involves intercepting and potentially altering communications between two parties without their knowledge. This can be done via techniques like ARP poisoning, rogue access points, or SSL stripping.

Breakdown of Options:

A. Self-signed certificate – These are untrusted SSL certificates but do not intercept traffic.

B. VLAN hopping – VLAN hopping exploits VLAN misconfigurations but does not necessarily intercept communications.

C. On-path attack – Correct answer. This intercepts and modifies traffic between two endpoints.

D. Phishing – Phishing tricks users into revealing credentials rather than intercepting network traffic.

Introduction to Disaster Recovery Concepts:

Disaster recovery involves strategies and measures to ensure business continuity and data recovery in the event of a disaster.

Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF):

MTBF is a reliability metric used to predict the time between failures of a system during operation. It is calculated by dividing the total operational time by the number of failures.

Formula: MTBF=Total Operational TimeNumber of Failures\text{MTBF} = \frac{\text{Total Operational Time}}{\text{Number of Failures}}MTBF=Number of FailuresTotal Operational Time​

This metric helps in understanding the reliability and expected lifespan of systems and components.

Example Calculation:

If a server operates for 1000 hours and experiences 2 failures, the MTBF is: MTBF=1000 hours2=500 hours\text{MTBF} = \frac{1000 \text{ hours}}{2} = 500 \text{ hours}MTBF=21000 hours​=500 hours

Explanation of the Options:

A. MTTR (Mean Time to Repair): The average time required to repair a system after a failure.

B. MTBF (Mean Time Between Failures): The correct answer, representing the average time between failures.

C. RPO (Recovery Point Objective): The maximum acceptable amount of data loss measured in time.

D. RTO (Recovery Time Objective): The target time set for the recovery of IT and business activities after a disaster.

Conclusion:

MTBF is a crucial metric in disaster recovery and system reliability, helping organizations plan maintenance and predict system performance.

To support VoIP on the same physical ports used by computers:

B. Enable 802.1Q: This standard supports VLAN tagging, allowing voice and data traffic to share the same port using separate VLANs.

D. Set up voice VLANs: Separating voice traffic into its own VLAN improves QoS and manageability.

Other options are not directly related to configuring VoIP over existing ports:

A. Network translation definitions (NAT) are unrelated to switch-level VLAN configuration.

C. Routing protocols are not necessary at the switch level for VLAN setup.

E. DNS is not required for the switch or VLAN setup.

F. Perimeter network (DMZ) is used for public-facing servers, not VoIP VLANs.

???? Reference:

CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Objectives: 2.3 – Given a scenario, configure and verify VLANs.

CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Objectives: 3.6 – Explain the characteristics of network topologies and types.

These four terms—avoidance, acceptance, mitigation, and transfer—are strategies used in risk management.

From Andrew Ramdayal’s guide:

“Risk in security refers to the potential for loss, damage, or destruction of assets or data due to a threat exploiting a vulnerability. Risk management strategies include avoidance, acceptance, mitigation, and transfer.”

A Client-to-Site VPN allows a remote user to securely connect to a company's internal network, providing access as if they were physically on-site.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation (aligned to N10-009):

For a log collector server, the primary needed service is Syslog, which typically uses UDP port 514. Other ports may be open for management (e.g., 22 for SSH) or SNMP traps (162) if integrated. However, port 80 (HTTP) should not be open unless required, as it increases attack surface and does not directly serve the log collection purpose. Disabling it hardens the server.

A. 22 (SSH) is needed for secure management.

C. 162 (SNMP trap) may be required for monitoring/log correlation.

D. 514 (Syslog) is essential for log collection.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — Hardening servers, disabling unnecessary services and ports.

The most likely cause of buffering issues when moving outdoors is signal degradation. Wireless signals weaken as they travel through obstacles such as walls, glass, and air, leading to weaker connections and reduced data rates.

Breakdown of Options:

A. Network congestion – While congestion can slow down network speeds, it affects all users, not just those moving outdoors.

B. Wireless interference – Interference is possible but is more likely caused by other wireless signals rather than outdoor movement.

C. Signal degradation – Correct answer. Wireless signals weaken with distance and obstacles such as walls, reducing performance.

D. Client disassociation – Disassociation occurs when clients lose connection to the AP, but the question states that users experience buffering, indicating they are still connected but with a weak signal.

Multi-factor authentication (MFA) requires two or more different categories of authentication factors:

Something you know (password, PIN)

Something you have (smart card, hardware token)

Something you are (biometric)

The only valid second factor here is a hard token (e.g., a key fob generating one-time codes).

A. PIN is still “something you know,” the same category as a password.

B. Favorite color is a weak knowledge-based factor, not a true second factor.

D. Mother’s maiden name is also “something you know” and insecure.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — Authentication methods, MFA factor categories.

In financial institutions such as stock exchanges, downtime or latency can have severe consequences. Active-active high availability ensures multiple sites/systems are running simultaneously, distributing the load and providing immediate failover with minimal or no interruption. This is the best approach for environments that require continuous uptime and resiliency.

A. Warm site: Useful for disaster recovery, but not immediate; systems must be partially configured and brought online.

C. Full mesh: Refers to topology interconnections, not DR/HA design.

D. In-band: Relates to management methods, not HA/DR strategies.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Infrastructure — High availability, redundancy strategies, active-active vs. active-passive design.

Understanding Spanning Tree Protocol (STP):

STP is used to prevent network loops in Ethernet networks by creating a spanning tree that selectively blocks some redundant paths.

Default Priority Value:

Bridge Priority: STP uses bridge priority to determine which switch becomes the root bridge. The default bridge priority value for most switches is 32768.

Priority Range: The bridge priority can be set in increments of 4096, ranging from 0 to 61440.

Configuration and Verification:

When deploying a new switch, the network administrator can verify the bridge priority using commands such as show spanning-tree to ensure it is set to the default value of 32768.

Comparison with Other Values:

4096 and 8192: Lower than the default priority, indicating these would be manually configured for higher preference.

36684: A non-standard value, likely a result of specific configuration changes.

A split-tunnel VPN allows some traffic to be routed through the VPN while other traffic goes directly to the internet. This setup offers several advantages, with a primary one being cost-effectiveness due to cloud-based traffic not consuming company bandwidth.

Bandwidth Utilization: Split-tunnel VPNs reduce the amount of traffic passing through the company's network, freeing up bandwidth for other uses.

Performance: By allowing internet-bound traffic to bypass the VPN, it can reduce latency and improve the performance for users accessing cloud services directly.

Cost Savings: Reduced load on the company's VPN infrastructure can lead to lower costs in terms of both hardware and bandwidth.

Network References:

CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Official Certification Guide: Covers VPN types, including split-tunnel configurations and their advantages.

Cisco Networking Academy: Discusses VPN technologies and the benefits of split-tunneling.

Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide: Provides detailed information on VPN setups, including the cost-effectiveness of split-tunnel VPNs.

By allowing cloud-based traffic to flow outside the company’s network, a split-tunnel VPN optimizes resource usage and enhances the overall network performance without incurring extra costs for bandwidth.

Understanding the Vulnerability:

Vulnerabilities in the router CPU can be exploited to cause performance degradation, unauthorized access, or other security issues.

Firmware Update:

Firmware Role: The firmware is low-level software that controls the hardware of a device. Updating the firmware can address vulnerabilities by providing patches and enhancements from the manufacturer.

Procedure: Download the latest firmware from the vendor’s website, follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply the update, and verify that the update resolves the vulnerability.

Comparison with Other Options:

Replace the System Board: This is a costly and often unnecessary step if the issue can be resolved with a firmware update.

Patch the OS: Patching the OS is relevant for devices with a full operating system but not directly applicable to addressing a CPU vulnerability on a router.

Isolate the System: Temporarily isolating the system can mitigate immediate risk but does not resolve the underlying vulnerability.

Best Practice:

Regularly check for and apply firmware updates to ensure that network devices are protected against known vulnerabilities.

Understanding Multicast:

Multicast IP Address Range: The multicast address range is from 224.0.0.0 to 239.255.255.255, designated for multicast traffic.

Multicast Applications:

Use Case: Multicast is used for one-to-many or many-to-many communication, suitable for applications like audio and video broadcasting where the same data is sent to multiple recipients simultaneously.

Appropriate Network Selection:

224.0.0.0/24 Network: This range is reserved for multicast addresses, making it the appropriate choice for setting up a multicast network.

Comparison with Other Options:

172.16.0.0/24: Part of the private IP address space, used for private networks, not designated for multicast.

192.168.0.0/24: Another private IP address range, also not for multicast.

240.0.0.0/24: Reserved for future use, not suitable for multicast.

Understanding TTL (Time to Live):

TTL is a value in a DNS record that tells how long that record should be cached by DNS servers and clients. A higher TTL value means that the record will be cached longer, reducing the load on the DNS server but delaying the propagation of changes.

Impact of TTL on DNS Changes:

When an MX record change is made, it may take time for the change to propagate across all DNS servers due to the TTL setting. If the TTL is high, old DNS information might still be cached, leading to email being directed to the old server.

Best Practice Before Making DNS Changes:

To ensure that changes to DNS records propagate quickly, it is recommended to reduce the TTL value to a lower value (such as 300 seconds or 5 minutes) well in advance of making the changes. This ensures that any cached records will expire quickly, and the new records will be used sooner.

Verification of DNS Changes:

After reducing the TTL and making the change to the MX record, it is important to verify the propagation using tools like dig or nslookup.

Comparison with Other Options:

Change the email client configuration to match the MX record: Email clients generally do not need to match the MX record directly; they usually connect to a specific mail server specified in their settings.

Perform a DNS zone transfer prior to the MX record change: DNS zone transfers are used to replicate DNS records between DNS servers, but they are not related to the propagation of individual record changes.

Update the NS record to reflect the IP address change: NS records specify the DNS servers for a domain and are not related to MX record changes.

Private VLANs (PVLANs) are used to segment devices on the same subnet and switch so they cannot communicate with each other, while still accessing a shared resource like a router or gateway. This is often used in shared hosting or DMZ environments.

A. ACLs (Access Control Lists) control traffic between networks, not within the same VLAN.

B. Trunking carries multiple VLANs between switches but does not isolate devices.

C. Port security limits MAC addresses per port but doesn’t isolate communication between ports.

???? Reference:

CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Objectives: 3.4 – Compare and contrast access control methods.

RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) is a networking protocol that provides centralized Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) management for users who connect and use a network service. RADIUS is often used to manage access to wireless networks, enabling users to authenticate with their company credentials, ensuring secure access to the network.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials. ​

An SVI (Switched Virtual Interface) is a logical interface on a Layer 3-capable switch used to route traffic between VLANs. This is particularly useful in environments where voice and data traffic need to be separated, as each type of traffic can be assigned to different VLANs and routed accordingly.

SVI (Switched Virtual Interface): A virtual interface created on a switch for inter-VLAN routing.

VLAN Routing: Enables the routing of traffic between VLANs on a Layer 3 switch, allowing for logical separation of different types of traffic, such as voice and data.

Use Case: Commonly used in scenarios where efficient and segmented traffic management is required, such as in VoIP implementations.

Network References:

CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Official Certification Guide: Discusses VLANs, SVIs, and their applications in network segmentation and routing.

Cisco Networking Academy: Provides training on VLAN configuration and inter-VLAN routing using SVIs.

Network+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide: Covers network segmentation techniques, including the use of SVIs for VLAN routing.

The correct answer is Platform as a Service (PaaS). PaaS provides developers with a ready-to-use platform that includes runtime environments, developer tools, middleware, and database services. Developers can focus on writing code while the provider handles security patches, updates, and infrastructure management.

A. CaaS (Containers as a Service) focuses on deploying and managing containerized applications, not providing full developer platforms.

B. IaaS delivers virtual machines, storage, and networking, but administrators must install and maintain the OS, middleware, and updates.

D. SaaS provides end-user applications (e.g., email, CRM), not platforms for development.

By using PaaS, the developers can build applications quickly and cost-effectively without worrying about underlying infrastructure or system maintenance.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Networking Concepts — Cloud service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS, CaaS).

An evil twin is a rogue Wi-Fi access point that mimics a legitimate network. Attackers use it to intercept and manipulate traffic, making it an on-path (formerly MITM) attack opportunity.

Breakdown of Options:

A. Phishing – Tries to steal credentials through fake emails/websites but does not intercept network traffic.

B. Dumpster diving – Involves physical security breaches, not network interception.

C. Evil twin – ✅ Correct answer. A rogue Wi-Fi AP impersonates a real network, allowing traffic interception.

D. Tailgating – Involves physical access security, not network interception.

BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) uses an Autonomous System (AS) number for its operations. An AS is a collection of IP networks and routers under the control of a single organization that presents a common routing policy to the Internet. BGP is used to exchange routing information between different ASes on the Internet, making it the only protocol among the listed options that uses an AS number.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials and RFC 4271.

A CNAME (Canonical Name) record maps an alias to the correct fully qualified domain name (FQDN). If a user is redirected to the wrong hostname, correcting or updating the CNAME ensures the alias points to the proper domain.

B. PTR record maps IP to hostname (reverse DNS), not forward website resolution.

C. NTP relates to time sync, irrelevant to DNS resolution.

D. TXT record stores metadata like SPF or DKIM info, not used for hostname aliasing.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Standards, Protocols, and Implementations — DNS record types (A, AAAA, CNAME, PTR, TXT).

Definition of Heat Maps:

A heat map is a graphical representation of data where individual values are represented by colors. In the context of wireless networking, a heat map shows the wireless signal strength in different areas of a building.

Purpose of a Heat Map:

Heat maps are used to illustrate the effectiveness of wireless networking coverage, identify dead zones, and optimize the placement of access points (APs) to ensure adequate coverage and performance.

Comparison with Other Options:

Logical Diagram: Represents the logical connections and relationships within the network.

Layer 3 Network Diagram: Focuses on the routing and IP addressing within the network.

Service-Level Agreement (SLA): A contract that specifies the expected service levels between a service provider and a customer.

Creation and Use:

Heat maps are created using specialized software or tools that measure wireless signal strength throughout the building. The data collected is then used to generate a visual map, guiding network administrators in optimizing wireless coverage.

When installing equipment in a building, environmental factors are critical to ensure the safety and longevity of the equipment. A fire suppression system is essential to protect the equipment from fire hazards. Humidity control is crucial to prevent moisture-related damage, such ascorrosion and short circuits, which can adversely affect electronic components. Both factors are vital for maintaining an optimal environment for networking equipment.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials.

In a mesh topology, every node is directly connected to every other node. This provides high redundancy and reliability, as there are multiple paths for data to travel between nodes. This topology is often used in networks where high availability is crucial.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials.

OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) is a link-state routing protocol that uses the Dijkstra algorithm, also known as the shortest path first (SPF) algorithm, to determine the most efficient routes.

From Andrew Ramdayal’s guide:

“OSPF is a link-state routing protocol that provides fast, efficient path selection using the shortest path first (SPF) algorithm.”

A proxy server can filter internet access by controlling which websites or services users can reach. It enforces content policies and can provide caching and monitoring.

A. A router directs traffic but doesn’t filter internet sites by itself.

B. A cloud gateway could also filter, but the most direct answer is proxy.

D. An IDS detects suspicious activity but doesn’t filter browsing access.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — Proxy servers, filtering, access control.

Devices in both buildings should be able to access the Internet.

Security insists that all Internet traffic be inspected before entering the network.

Desktops should not see traffic destined for other devices.

Here is the corrected layout with explanation:

Building A:

Switch: Correctly placed to connect all desktops.

Firewall: Correctly placed to inspect all incoming and outgoing traffic.

Building B:

Switch: Not needed. Instead, place a Wireless Access Point (WAP) to provide wireless connectivity for laptops and mobile devices.

Between Buildings:

Wireless Range Extender: Correctly placed to provide connectivity between the buildings wirelessly.

Connection to the Internet:

Router: Correctly placed to connect to the Internet and route traffic between the buildings and the Internet.

Firewall: The firewall should be placed between the router and the internal network to inspect all traffic before it enters the network.

Corrected Setup:

Top-left (Building A): Switch

Bottom-left (Building A): Firewall (inspect traffic before it enters the network)

Top-middle (Internet connection): Router

Bottom-middle (between buildings): Wireless Range Extender

Top-right (Building B): Wireless Access Point (WAP)

In this corrected setup, the WAP in Building B will connect wirelessly to the Wireless Range Extender, which is connected to the Router. The Router is connected to the Firewall to ensure all traffic is inspected before it enters the network.

Configuration for Wireless Range Extender:

SSID: CORP

Security Settings: WPA2 or WPA2 - Enterprise

Key or Passphrase: [Enter a strong passphrase]

Mode: [Set based on your network plan]

Channel: [Set based on your network plan]

Speed: Auto

Duplex: Auto

With these settings, both buildings will have secure access to the Internet, and all traffic will be inspected by the firewall before entering the network. Desktops and other devices will not see traffic intended for others, maintaining the required security and privacy.

To configure the wireless range extender for security, follow these steps:

SSID (Service Set Identifier):

Ensure the SSID is set to "CORP" as shown in the exhibit.

Security Settings:

WPA2 or WPA2 - Enterprise: Choose one of these options for stronger security. WPA2-Enterprise provides more robust security with centralized authentication, which is ideal for a corporate environment.

Key or Passphrase:

If you select WPA2, enter a strong passphrase in the "Key or Passphrase" field.

If you select WPA2 - Enterprise, you will need to configure additional settings for authentication servers, such as RADIUS, which is not shown in the exhibit.

Wireless Mode and Channel:

Set the appropriate mode and channel based on your network design and the environment to avoid interference. These settings are not specified in the exhibit, so set them according to your network plan.

Wired Speed and Duplex:

Set the speed to "Auto" unless you have specific requirements for 100 or 1000 Mbps.

Set the duplex to "Auto" unless you need to specify half or full duplex based on your network equipment.

Save Configuration:

After making the necessary changes, click the "Save" button to apply the settings.

Here is how the configuration should look after adjustments:

SSID: CORP

Security Settings: WPA2 or WPA2 - Enterprise

Key or Passphrase: [Enter a strong passphrase]

Mode: [Set based on your network plan]

Channel: [Set based on your network plan]

Speed: Auto

Duplex: Auto

Once these settings are configured, your wireless range extender will provide secure connectivity for devices in both buildings.

Firewall setting to to ensure complete compliance with the requirements and best security practices, consider the following adjustments and additions:

DNS Rule: This rule allows DNS traffic from the internal network to any destination, which is fine.

HTTPS Outbound: This rule allows HTTPS traffic from the internal network (assuming 192.169.0.1/24 is a typo and should be 192.168.0.1/24) to any destination, which is also good for secure web browsing.

Management: This rule allows SSH access to the firewall for management purposes, which is necessary for administrative tasks.

HTTPS Inbound: This rule denies inbound HTTPS traffic to the internal network, which is good unless you have a web server that needs to be accessible from the internet.

HTTP Inbound: This rule denies inbound HTTP traffic to the internal network, which is correct for security purposes.

Suggested Additional Settings:

Permit General Outbound Traffic: Allow general outbound traffic for web access, email, etc.

Block All Other Traffic: Ensure that all other traffic is blocked to prevent unauthorized access.

Firewall Configuration Adjustments:

Correct the Network Typo:

Ensure that the subnet 192.169.0.1/24 is corrected to 192.168.0.1/24.

Permit General Outbound Traffic:

Rule Name: General Outbound

Source: 192.168.0.1/24

Destination: ANY

Service: ANY

Action: PERMIT

Deny All Other Traffic:

Rule Name: Block All

Source: ANY

Destination: ANY

Service: ANY

Action: DENY

Here is how your updated firewall settings should look:

Rule Name

Source

Destination

Service

Action

DNS Rule

192.168.0.1/24

ANY

DNS

PERMIT

HTTPS Outbound

192.168.0.1/24

ANY

HTTPS

PERMIT

Management

ANY

192.168.0.1/24

SSH

PERMIT

HTTPS Inbound

ANY

192.168.0.1/24

HTTPS

DENY

HTTP Inbound

ANY

192.168.0.1/24

HTTP

DENY

General Outbound

192.168.0.1/24

ANY

ANY

PERMIT

Block All

ANY

ANY

ANY

DENY

These settings ensure that:

Internal devices can access DNS and HTTPS services externally.

Management access via SSH is permitted.

Inbound HTTP and HTTPS traffic is denied unless otherwise specified.

General outbound traffic is allowed.

All other traffic is blocked by default, ensuring a secure environment.

Make sure to save the settings after making these adjustments.

When a network interface's indicator lights are not blinking on either the computer or the switch, it suggests a physical layer issue. Here is the detailed reasoning:

Ethernet Properly Connected: The Ethernet cable is correctly connected, eliminating issues related to a loose or faulty cable.

No Indicator Lights: The absence of blinking indicator lights on both the computer and the switch typically points to the port being administratively shut down.

Switch Port Shut Down: In networking, a switch port can be administratively shut down, disabling it from passing any traffic. This state is configured by network administrators and can be verified and changed using the command-line interface (CLI) of the switch.

Command to Check and Enable Port:

bash

Copy code

Switch> enable

Switch# configure terminal

Switch(config)# interface [interface id]

Switch(config-if)# no shutdown

The command no shutdown re-enables the interface if it was previously disabled. This will restore the link and the indicator lights should start blinking, showing activity.

Basic Configuration Commands PDF, sections on interface configuration (e.g., shutdown, no shutdown)​​.

To access the internet using static IPs, the firewall (or router) must be configured correctly:

B. Default gateway: This is essential because it tells the firewall where to send outbound traffic destined for outside the local network.

D. One static IP address: The firewall must be assigned one of the static IPs to communicate over the public internet.

The other options are not essential for basic internet connectivity in this context:

A. NTP server: Useful for time synchronization but not required for internet access.

C. The modem’s IP address: Irrelevant unless doing modem-level configuration.

E. DNS servers: Important for name resolution but not for basic layer 3 connectivity.

F. DHCP server: Not used when static IPs are assigned.

???? Reference:

CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Objectives: 2.2 – Compare and contrast addressing technologies.

===========

On Core-SW01, the ports are configured with LACP (mode active) for link aggregation. On Core-SW02, the ports are configured as independent trunks, not as part of an LACP group. Because of this mismatch, LACP cannot form the bundle, and the aggregated ports on SW01 will go into a suspended state.

A. CRC errors suggest cabling or signal integrity issues, not config mismatch.

B. Error disabled occurs when a violation (like BPDU guard or port security) disables the port, not LACP mismatch.

C. Administratively down indicates a shutdown command, not the case here.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Troubleshooting — Port-channel/LACP configuration issues, interface states.

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation (paraphrased, aligned to N10-009):

An evil twin is a malicious wireless access point that impersonates a legitimate SSID. Once victims connect, the attacker can intercept and manipulate traffic, performing an on-path (man-in-the-middle) attack—capturing credentials, injecting content, or downgrading encryption.

B. DDoS overwhelms services with traffic; it’s not the typical follow-on from clients joining a rogue AP.

C. ARP spoofing is another way to become on-path on wired segments, but with an evil twin, the wireless association itself enables the on-path position.

D. Phishing is social engineering; while an evil twin could be used to present fake portals, the primary technical posture after connection is on-path.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — Wireless threats (rogue APs/evil twins), traffic interception, on-path attacks.

===========

A Security Information and Event Management (SIEM) system collects, correlates, and analyzes logs from multiple sources in real-time, providing enhanced visibility across multivendor environments.

Breakdown of Options:

A. SNMP – SNMP is used for network device monitoring, but it lacks real-time correlation across multiple vendors.

B. SIEM – Correct answer. SIEM aggregates, analyzes, and correlates logs from multiple sources, providing real-time visibility.

C. Nmap – Nmap is a network scanning tool used for mapping hosts and detecting open ports but does not provide log correlation.

D. Syslog – Syslog collects logs but does not correlate or analyze them in real-time.

Speed Mismatches: If NICs are set to different speeds (e.g., 100 Mbps on one side and 1 Gbps on the other), performance will degrade. Ensuring consistent speed settings between devices is crucial for optimal performance.

Load balancer settings (B): Applies to server load distribution, not endpoint speed.

Flow control settings (C): Can affect performance but is secondary to speed mismatches.

Infrastructure cabling grade (D): Relevant if the cables are unsuitable for gigabit speeds, but speed settings should be checked first.

An evil twin attack is when an attacker sets up a rogue access point (AP) with the same SSID as a legitimate one to trick users into connecting. Once users connect, attackers often present fake login pages or capture unencrypted session data to steal login credentials.

A. DNS poisoning manipulates DNS resolution but is not inherent to evil twin.

C. ARP spoofing is a Layer 2 attack involving MAC/IP mapping manipulation.

D. Denial of service can be a side effect but is not the primary objective of evil twin attacks.

The main purpose of an evil twin is credential theft, enabling further unauthorized access to networks or systems.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — Wireless attacks, rogue APs, evil twins.

When traceroute shows asterisks (timeouts) instead of IP addresses or hostnames, it may indicate that intermediate routers are dropping ICMP packets. However, performing an nslookup will reveal the IP address associated with the domain name, confirming that DNS resolution is correct and helping identify the path to the target server. The document states:

“nslookup is used to query DNS servers to retrieve IP address information associated with a domain name, which helps confirm DNS resolution is working correctly even when traceroute results show timeouts.”

VLAN hopping occurs when an attacker tricks a switch into believing the host is another switch by generating tagged frames or exploiting trunk negotiation (DTP). This allows the attacker to access traffic from multiple VLANs, potentially stealing sensitive data.

B. Evil twin is a rogue wireless AP attack, unrelated to switch impersonation.

C. DNS poisoning corrupts name resolution, not VLAN access.

D. ARP spoofing is a Layer 2 on-path attack, not masquerading as a switch.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Security — VLAN hopping attacks, switch spoofing techniques.

When a DHCP server is installed and not enough IP addresses are provisioned, users may start experiencing network outages once the available IP addresses are exhausted. DHCP servers assign IP addresses to devices on the network, and if the pool of addresses is too small, new devices or those renewing their lease may fail to obtain an IP address, resulting in network connectivity issues.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials.

Malware refers to any malicious software that can exfiltrate confidential data, including spyware, trojans, and rootkits. This fits the scenario where unauthorized data transfer is occurring.

Breakdown of Options:

A. Adware – Displays ads, does not typically steal data.

B. Ransomware – Encrypts files but does not exfiltrate data.

C. Darkware – Not a real cybersecurity term.

D. Malware – Correct answer. Malicious software is responsible for unauthorized data exfiltration.

SSH (Secure Shell) is a protocol used to securely connect to a remote server/system over a network. It operates on port 22 and provides encrypted communication, unlike Telnet which operates on port 23 and is not secure. TLS is used for securing HTTP connections (HTTPS) and operates on ports like 443, while RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) is used for remote desktop connections and operates on port 3389.

Multimode fiber optic cables involve the transmission of light signals that bounce off the core's cladding as they travel down the fiber. This characteristic differentiates it from single-mode fiber, where the light travels directly down the fiber without reflecting off the cladding.

Here are some detailed points about multimode fiber cables:

Construction: Multimode fibers have a larger core diameter, typically 50 or 62.5 microns, compared to single-mode fibers, which have a core diameter of about 9 microns.

Light Propagation: The larger core of multimode fiber allows multiple light modes to propagate. These modes travel at different angles, leading to reflections off the core-cladding boundary.

Distance and Bandwidth: Due to modal dispersion, where different light modes arrive at the receiver at different times, multimode fibers are suited for shorter distance applications compared to single-mode fibers. Typical distances are up to 550 meters for 10 Gbps Ethernet using OM4 multimode fiber.

Applications: Multimode fibers are commonly used in LANs (Local Area Networks), data centers, and for shorter distance data transmission due to their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation.

Network References:

CompTIA Network+ N10-007 Official Certification Guide, which covers fiber optic technologies, including the differences between multimode and single-mode fibers.

Cisco Networking Academy: Provides training materials and reference guides on the properties of different fiber optic cables.

Fiber Optic Association (FOA): A professional society dedicated to fiber optics, offering extensive information and certification on fiber optic technologies.

Multimode fibers are specifically designed for short-range communication with higher data rates and are typically used in environments like data centers, where high bandwidth over shorter distances is crucial. The reflections off the cladding, inherent to multimode fiber, facilitate this high-capacity communication.

Disabling unused ports prevents unauthorized access and reduces the attack surface by ensuring that no inactive or unmonitored entry points are available for exploitation. Changing default passwords is critical for security because default credentials are widely known and can easily be exploited by attackers. These techniques are fundamental steps in hardening devices against unauthorized access and ensuring network security. References: CompTIA Network+ Exam Objectives and official study guides.

When working with fiber optic cables, one common issue is that the transmit (TX) and receive (RX) fibers might be reversed. The first step in troubleshooting should be to reverse the fibers at one end to ensure they are correctly aligned (TX to RX and RX to TX). This is a simple and quick step to rule out a common issue before moving on to more complex troubleshooting.References: CompTIA Network+ study materials.

A system has reachedend-of-supportwhen thevendor no longer provides patches, updates, or bug fixes. This significantly increases the risk of security vulnerabilities and is a major operational concern.

A /23 subnet provides 512 total addresses, of which 510 are usable (subtracting 2 for network and broadcast addresses). This would satisfy the need for 255 additional addresses.

In disaster recovery, the first step after an incident is to conduct a thorough damage assessment to understand the extent of the damage and determine the next appropriate steps. This allows for informed decision-making during the recovery process. The document says:

“The first step after a disaster is to conduct a damage assessment. This involves evaluating the extent of damage to equipment, infrastructure, and data, forming the foundation for recovery efforts and prioritizing response actions.”

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation (paraphrased, aligned to N10-009):

HTTPS is HTTP encapsulated in TLS (the successor to SSL), which provides confidentiality, integrity, and server authentication for web traffic.

A. SSH secures remote shell and tunnels, not HTTPS.

C. SCADA refers to industrial control systems, not a transport security protocol.

D. RADIUS is an AAA protocol for authentication/authorization/accounting, not the web encryption layer.

References (CompTIA Network+ N10-009):

Domain: Network Standards, Protocols, and Implementations — Web protocols (HTTP/HTTPS), TLS handshake and purpose, encryption in transit.

•API (Application Programming Interface) enables secure and granular access control, remote management, and logging, making it ideal for network monitoring.

•SNMP (A) is mainly used for device monitoring but lacks centralized logging and user-based privilege control.

•SIEM (C) is a security monitoring tool focused on log collection, not device management.

•SSO (D) is related to authentication, not monitoring.

????Reference: CompTIA Network+ N10-009 Official Documentation – Network Monitoring & Management Technologies.

SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) systems are used to aggregate and analyze log data from various sources, including firewalls, to detect potential security incidents and assist in regulatory compliance. The document explains:

“SIEM solutions aggregate and analyze log and event data from multiple devices, including firewalls, across different locations. They help in real-time monitoring, incident response, and ensuring compliance with security policies.”