CompTIA Network+ (N10-007) — Question 321

A technician needs to add ten additional Ethernet ports to a small office network. A new basic function switch is added. Hosts connected to the new switch are unable to see any computers on the network other than those connected to the new switch. Which of the following should the technician perform to ensure the hosts on the new switch can communicate with the existing network?

Answer options

• A. Replace the new switch with a hub to ensure Layer 1 connectivity on the new network segment.
• B. Move the straight-through Ethernet cable connecting the switches to the first port on both switches.
• C. Connect the switches with a cable that has a TIA/EIA 586A wired connector end and a TIA/EIA 586B wired end.
• D. Add a second cable connecting the switches for redundancy and disabling STP on both switches.

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is C because using a cable with different pinouts, such as TIA/EIA 586A and TIA/EIA 586B, allows for proper communication between switches by creating a crossover effect necessary for Layer 2 connectivity. Option A is incorrect because a hub would not solve the Layer 2 communication issue, and it is less efficient than a switch. Option B does not address the fundamental connectivity issue, and option D introduces unnecessary complexity by adding redundancy and disabling STP, which could lead to network loops.