CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) — Question 310

A new employee is unable to access any network resources. All other users are able to access the network at 100Mbps. No IP address, subnet mask, or default gateway is displayed on the new employee's workstation. The network administrator reterminates all connectors using the correct standard. Upon further investigation, the network administrator also notices the following:
Wire map results from the user patch cable to the patch cable connecting to the switch:
✑ Pins 5 and 7 are short.
✑ The distance is 200ft (61m).
Additional observations on the switch:
✑ The VLAN is set correctly.
✑ The port is not disabled.
✑ The duplex/speed settings are correct.
✑ Port LEDs are off for that port.
✑ The port is set to untagged.
Which of the following is the MOST likely reason the new employee is having network issues?

Answer options

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The most probable cause of the new employee's network issues is a faulty switchport, as indicated by the wire map showing a short between pins 5 and 7. This type of short can prevent proper data transmission. The other options do not apply because the VLAN settings are correct, the port is enabled, and duplex/speed settings are accurate, eliminating those as potential issues.