Real Cisco 200-201 Exam Questions — Your Path to Passing First Try

Network Fundamentals

• Network topologies define the physical and logical arrangements of devices in a network. Common types include bus, star, ring, mesh, and tree. Each topology has strengths and weaknesses regarding scalability, redundancy, and performance.
• Protocols define the rules and standards for communication between devices on a network. Examples include TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol) used for the internet and other networks.
• Key network components include routers, switches, hubs, and modems. Routers direct data packets between networks, switches manage traffic within a local network. Hubs forward data to all connected devices, and modems connect the network to an external service provider.
• Network addressing involves unique identifiers assigned to devices. IP addresses (Internet Protocol addresses) are crucial for network communication, and they identify hosts on the network. MAC addresses (Media Access Control addresses) uniquely identify network interfaces on a device. DNS (Domain Name System) translates human-readable domain names into IP addresses.

Implementation Strategies

• Network design involves planning the network layout, considering factors like scalability, performance requirements, security, and budget.
• Network deployment involves physically installing and configuring network devices, cables, and software. This includes ensuring the correct hardware is in place and software is fully licensed.
• Network testing is critical for ensuring functionality, verifying proper operation, and identifying potential issues before full deployment. Methods may include ping, traceroute, and various network testing software utilities.
• Documentation is fundamental during implementation, crucial for managing and maintaining the network. This includes diagrams of the network layout, detailed information on devices, protocols, and procedures.

Troubleshooting Techniques

• Identifying network problems often requires systematic troubleshooting. Common methods include checking cables, network connections, device configurations, and examining logs for errors.
• Tools like ping, traceroute, and network scanners are useful diagnostic tools to determine network connectivity, identify bottlenecks, and determine potential issues on a network.
• Isolating the source of a problem involves methodically checking different components of the network.
• Troubleshooting often involves a methodical process of elimination, checking elements as a possible source of trouble based on symptoms presented.

Industry Best Practices

• Security is paramount in network management; implementing strong security measures is crucial for protecting data and maintaining network integrity. Practices include secure password policies, access controls, and firewalls.
• Maintaining the network in a proactive and reactive approach involves monitoring performance and implementing preventive measures.
• Version control and backups of sensitive configurations are vital for disaster recovery.
• Network performance optimisation involves strategies like balancing bandwidth usage, addressing congestion issues, and upgrading hardware where necessary, following ongoing maintenance and evolution of the network.

Security Concepts

• Security threats in networks include malware, viruses, worms, and denial-of-service attacks. Recognizing and addressing these threats is a key part of network security management.
• Firewalls are crucial for controlling network traffic and preventing unauthorized access.
• Access controls are critical in restricting access to resources based on users' permissions and roles.
• Encryption methods protect data in transit and at rest by using encryption protocols. Common encryption methods include SSL/TLS.
• Security awareness training for users is important to educate them about common threats, and encourage good security habits.