Network & Infrastructure Management Flashcards

Which network topology provides the highest fault tolerance by connecting every node to every other node?

Answer: Mesh topology

A full mesh topology connects every node directly to every other node, ensuring no single point of failure can isolate any device.

What is the primary purpose of a demilitarized zone (DMZ) in network architecture?

Answer: To host public-facing services while protecting the internal network

A DMZ hosts services accessible to external users (e.g., web servers) while preventing direct access to the internal corporate network.

Which protocol is used to dynamically assign IP addresses to network devices?

Answer: DHCP

Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) automatically assigns IP addresses, subnet masks, gateways, and other network configuration to devices.

What does VLAN segmentation primarily achieve in an enterprise network?

Answer: Logically separates network traffic without requiring physical separation

VLANs create logical network segments on shared physical infrastructure, reducing broadcast domains and improving security and manageability.

In a three-tier network architecture, which tier handles routing between different network segments?

Answer: Distribution layer

The distribution layer aggregates access layer connections and handles inter-VLAN routing, policy enforcement, and traffic filtering between tiers.

Which infrastructure redundancy technique uses two network paths where only one is active at a time?

Answer: Active-passive failover

Active-passive failover keeps one path on standby, switching traffic to it only when the primary path fails.

What is the function of SNMP in network infrastructure management?

Answer: Monitors and manages network devices by collecting performance data

Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP) allows administrators to monitor device health, collect metrics, and configure managed network equipment.