2.8 – Given a scenario, use appropriate networking tools

Question 1

Which tool is used to test a network adapter not connected to the network?
 ❍ A. Punchdown tool
 ❍ B. Cable tester
 ❍ C. Loopback plug
 ❍ D. Tone generator and probe

Answer 1

C. To test a network adapter without a network connection, you would use a
loopback plug. This simulates a network connection. It can also be used to test a
switch port. Punchdown tools are used to punch individual wires to a patch panel.
Cable testers such as continuity testers test the entire length of a terminated
cable. A tone generator and probe kit can also test a cable’s length, but only tests
one pair of wires at a time.

Question 2

Your boss is concerned with overlapping wireless networks from neighboring
companies using 802.11ac. Which tool should you use to analyze the problem,
and which frequency should you display for analysis?
❍ A. Wi-Fi analyzer; 5 GHz
❍ B. Cable certifier; 5 GHz
❍ C. Loopback plug; 2.4 GHz
❍ D. Wi-Fi analyzer; 2.4 GHz

Answer 2

A. To analyze the problem, use a Wi-Fi analyzer! Because your boss is concerned
about wireless networks using 802.11ac, you would display the results for 5-GHz
networks, not 2.4 GHz. Cable certifiers are used to check long-distance wired
connections, for example, from a patch panel to an RJ45 jack. The loopback plug
is used to simulate a network connection, which can help with identifying switch
ports, and testing a PC’s network connection.

Question 3

What would be required to attach RJ45 plugs to the ends of a single patch cable?
 ❍ A. Tone and probe kit
 ❍ B. Multimeter
 ❍ C. Cable stripper
 ❍ D. Crimper

Answer 3

D. RJ45 plugs are attached to the cable ends with a tool called a crimper. A tone
generator and probe kit is used to trace hard-to-find telecommunication and data
communication cables/wires. A multimeter can be used to test continuity of a
patch cable. A cable stripper is used to strip a portion of the plastic jacket off the
cable, exposing the individual wires.