CompTIA Network+ (N10-008) — Question 18

A technician is installing a new fiber connection to a network device in a datacenter. The connection from the device to the switch also traverses a patch panel connection. The chain of connections is in the following order:
✑ Device
✑ LC/LC patch cable
✑ Patch panel
✑ Cross-connect fiber cable
✑ Patch panel
✑ LC/LC patch cable
✑ Switch
The connection is not working. The technician has changed both patch cables with known working patch cables. The device had been tested and was working properly before being installed. Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of the issue?

Answer options

• A. TX/RX is reversed
• B. An incorrect cable was used
• C. The device failed during installation
• D. Attenuation is occurring

Correct answer: A

Explanation

The correct answer is A, as reversing the TX (transmit) and RX (receive) signals can cause a connection failure even if all cables and devices are functioning properly. Options B and C are less likely since the technician has verified the cables and the device was previously tested. Option D, while a potential issue, is less likely given that the technician has already replaced the cables.