Switching Services

Question 1

Switches manage filter tables using what?

Answer 1

Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs)

Question 2

Complete the sentence xxx are software based, xxx are hardware based

Answer 2

bridges/switches

Question 3

List the 3 functions of layer 2 switches

Answer 3

1) Address learning
2) Forward/filter decisions
3) loop avoidance

Question 4

In what does a switch store the source hardware address of each frame received on an interface?

Answer 4

in the forward/filter table

Question 5

What happens what a MAC table is thrashed and when might it happen?

Answer 5

Is when the switch is constantly updating the MAC filter table with source hardware address locations. It can happen if no loop avoidance mechanism is enabled.

Question 6

Describe transparent-bridging

Answer 6

Transparent bridging describes how layer 2 devices forward frames. They will only forward a frame to the segment where the destination MAC is located. If the MAC is on the same segment, it will prevent the frame going to any other segments.

Question 7

What type of cable core is best used to run in risers and permanent installations?

Answer 7

Solid core. Because a) it can be punched down onto a patch panel whereas multi-strand cannot; b) it has a strengthened to support the weight of the copper to stop it stretching the conductor when hung vertically