System Architecture & Design Flashcards
7 cards from real CTE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 System Architecture & Design flashcards as text
A telecom architect must choose between synchronous and asynchronous messaging for an event-driven BSS. Which scenario favors asynchronous messaging?
Answer: Batch processing of daily CDR files to a billing engine
Asynchronous messaging suits batch or non-time-critical processes like CDR billing where the sender does not need an immediate response to proceed.
In 5G standalone (SA) architecture, what is the function of the Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF)?
Answer: To select the appropriate network slice for a UE based on service requirements
NSSF determines which network slice instance a user equipment should be connected to, enabling differentiated services like eMBB, URLLC, and mMTC.
What is the primary advantage of a distributed core network architecture compared to a centralized core?
Answer: Reduced latency by processing traffic closer to end users
Distributing core functions to edge locations reduces round-trip latency, which is critical for latency-sensitive applications like AR/VR and autonomous vehicles.
Which protocol is used by network elements in a telecom architecture to export flow-level data for traffic analysis and capacity planning?
Answer: NetFlow / IPFIX
NetFlow (and its standardized form IPFIX) exports metadata about IP flows from routers and switches, enabling detailed traffic analysis and capacity planning.
In designing a carrier Ethernet network, what does the term 'E-Line' service refer to?
Answer: A point-to-point Ethernet Virtual Connection between two endpoints
E-Line (Ethernet Private Line) is an MEF-defined service that provides a point-to-point Ethernet Virtual Connection between exactly two customer endpoints.
A telecom executive is reviewing a disaster recovery plan. What does an RTO of 4 hours mean for a critical billing system?
Answer: The system must be fully restored and operational within 4 hours of failure
Recovery Time Objective (RTO) defines the maximum acceptable time to restore a system after a disruption; a 4-hour RTO means operations resume within 4 hours.
Which architectural approach does NFV (Network Functions Virtualization) primarily replace in traditional telecom networks?
Answer: Proprietary purpose-built hardware appliances for network functions
NFV replaces dedicated hardware appliances (firewalls, DPI boxes, SBCs) with software running on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) servers, reducing costs and increasing flexibility.