Troubleshooting Networks Flashcards
What is a common physical connection issue that can affect network connectivity?
Issues could arise from the network interface card (NIC), cables, wall jacks, and other components. A faulty NIC’s link light indicates a physical issue.
What is the maximum length for Ethernet cables before connectivity issues arise?
Ethernet cables should not exceed 100 meters. For longer distances, use repeaters to extend the connection.
How can signal interference affect wired connections?
External sources like power lines or fluorescent lights can cause data corruption. Fiber optic cables can be used to avoid electrical interference.
What is port flapping, and what causes it?
Port flapping occurs when the NIC keeps switching between up and down states, often due to faulty cabling, interference, or a defective NIC.
What is the difference between half-duplex and full-duplex communication?
Half-duplex allows sending or receiving data at one time, while full-duplex allows both simultaneously, improving performance.
How can mismatched duplex settings affect network performance?
If the NIC and switch have different duplex settings, it can lead to poor performance. Ensure both are set to full duplex for optimal speed.
How can outdated network adapter drivers impact performance?
Older drivers may not support modern network speeds and protocols, reducing network performance. Updating drivers can help improve performance.
What should you check if a single client has slow network performance?
Check the duplex settings, speed settings, NIC drivers, and possible malware infection on the client.
What causes intermittent wireless connectivity?
Intermittent wireless connectivity can result from signal interference, low signal strength, or wireless standards mismatch.
What types of devices commonly cause interference on the 2.4 GHz band?
Devices like microwave ovens, wireless security systems, and IoT devices can cause interference on the 2.4 GHz band.
How can low signal strength affect wireless performance?
A weak signal can lead to intermittent connectivity and reduced speeds. Improving signal strength may involve moving closer to the access point or using larger antennas.
What should be done to avoid slowdowns from older wireless devices on a network?
Configure networks to prioritize newer standards like 802.11ac or 802.11ax and minimize the number of legacy devices.
What is latency in VoIP calls, and what causes it?
Latency is the delay in transmission, and high latency (over 150 ms) can cause delays, echoing, and poor conversation quality. Reducing network congestion and using QoS can help.
How does jitter affect VoIP calls?
Jitter causes irregular delays in data packet arrival, leading to voice glitches or dropped words. QoS can prioritize VoIP packets to reduce jitter.
What is Quality of Service (QoS), and how does it help VoIP performance?
QoS prioritizes VoIP traffic over other data to minimize delays and improve voice and video quality in real-time communication.
