11.7.3 Network Infrastructure and Device Facts

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of a router in a network?

To provide access to a wireless network.

To connect two networks and forward external traffic. (correct)

To monitor incoming and outgoing network traffic.

To connect multiple client devices together using Ethernet cables.

How does a switch differ from a hub in data handling?

A switch sends data packets only to the intended recipient, reducing network collisions. (correct)

A hub can prioritize network traffic while a switch cannot.

A switch requires configuration to work, while a hub is plug-and-play.

A switch broadcast data to all devices while a hub sends it to the intended recipient.

What role does a patch panel play in a network?

It acts as a terminal for network devices to connect via Ethernet cables. (correct)

It provides wireless access to network devices.

It connects external networks to the internal network.

It processes data packets and directs them to their intended recipient.

What is the function of Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

To deliver electrical power along with data via Ethernet cables. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes managed switches from unmanaged switches?

Managed switches require configuration; unmanaged switches are automatic. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary security function of a firewall in a network?

To block or allow traffic based on network configuration. Signup and view all the answers

What does a Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN) achieve in a large network?

It separates a large network into smaller, broadcast domains for efficiency and security. Signup and view all the answers

What is one common issue associated with using a hub in a network?

They can lead to data collisions due to broadcasting to all devices. Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of using Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

It eliminates the need for separate power sources for devices. Signup and view all the answers

Which PoE standard provides a maximum power of 60 watts?

802.3bt Type 3 Signup and view all the answers

What does an active PoE injector do differently than a passive injector?

Verifies power requirements during an initial handshake. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a specialized controller in software-defined networking (SDN)?

To facilitate remote management and monitoring of network devices. Signup and view all the answers

In which mode does Power over Ethernet utilize all eight wires in an Ethernet cable?

4-Pair Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential risk of using a passive PoE injector?

It can supply too much power, potentially damaging devices. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of device is primarily supported by the 802.3af PoE standard?

VoIP phones and sensors Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum power output of the 802.3bt Type 4 standard?

100 watts Signup and view all the answers

How does a network administrator benefit from using software-defined networking?

By achieving real-time monitoring and updates across all devices. Signup and view all the answers

What requirement must be met for a device to receive power through Power over Ethernet?

The device and the switch must both support PoE. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Network Components

Wireless Access Point (WAP): Provides access to a wireless network.
Patch Panel: Terminates all network ports in a building. Ethernet cables are connected to the back of the panel, and the front has RJ-45 ports.
Ethernet Cable: Connects devices to network ports and switches.
Router: Connects two or more networks, forwarding internal traffic to external destinations. All external traffic flows through the router.
Hub: Connects client devices using Ethernet cables, broadcasting incoming data to all connected devices. This can cause collisions and security issues.
Switch: Connects client devices using Ethernet cables, sending data packets only to the intended recipient. It keeps a table of MAC addresses to determine the destination.
- Managed Switches: Allow configuration changes like VLANs, QoS, and network traffic monitoring.
- Unmanaged Switches: Plug in and start working, with no configuration options.
Virtual Local Area Network (VLAN): A virtual network created on a switch by assigning specific ports to a broadcast domain. This improves network efficiency and security.
Firewall: Monitors incoming and outgoing network traffic, allowing or blocking it based on configuration.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

PoE allows devices to be powered through Ethernet cables, useful for devices in locations with limited power access.
Ethernet cables have eight wires, four of which are typically used for data transmission. PoE uses these wires for both data and power.
- Mode A: Uses the same four wires for data and power.
- Mode B: Uses the unused four wires for power.
- 4-Pair: Uses all eight wires for data and power.
There are four PoE standards:
- 802.3af (Type 1, Standard PoE): Maximum power of 15.4 watts, minimum power of 12.95 watts. Suitable for VoIP phones, sensors, and low-powered devices.
- 802.3at (Type 2, PoE+): Maximum power of 30 watts, minimum power of 25 watts. Suitable for biometric sensors and tablets.
- 802.3bt (Type 3, PoE++): Maximum power of 60 watts, minimum power of 51 watts. Suitable for videoconferencing equipment.
- 802.3bt (Type 4, Higher-power PoE): Maximum power of 100 watts, minimum power of 71 watts. Suitable for laptops, TVs, and high-power devices.
PoE Injectors: Used to power devices if the switch does not support PoE.
- Active PoE Injectors conform to 802.3 standards: They protect devices from incorrect power.
- Passive PoE injectors do not conform to 802.3 standards: They can provide too much power and may damage devices.

Software-Defined Networking (SDN)

Allows remote management of network devices from a specialized controller.
Enables network administrators to monitor traffic and make configuration changes efficiently.
Makes network management simpler, especially in large networks with diverse devices.

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Description

Test your knowledge on key network components like routers, switches, and access points. This quiz covers the functions and characteristics of various networking devices critical for establishing a network. Perfect for students in networking and IT courses!