Cable Shielding

Correct Answer: Crosstalk

The best answer here would be 'Crosstalk'. Crosstalk could be the issue here because it occurs when signals from one cable interfere with signals in a cable running parallel to it, particularly when these cables are unshielded. The symptoms being experienced, namely the intermittent data loss, are consistent with this problem. The other options provided, namely 'Electromagnetic interference (EMI)', 'Physical damage', and 'Voltage drop' are not as likely in this scenario. 'EMI' involves interference from other electronic devices or mechanisms and would typically result in more consistent data disruption rather than being intermittent. 'Physical damage' would likely produce a more permanent data loss or consistent problem, not an intermittent one. 'Voltage drop' could result in data loss, but it wouldn't necessarily be related to the cables running parallel to each other in the described scenario.

Correct Answer: Use shielded cables to reduce interference

The best solution in this scenario would be to 'use shielded cables to reduce interference'. Shielded Ethernet cables can significantly reduce electromagnetic interference that can slow down network speeds. 'Increasing the distance between all cables' may not necessarily solve the issue as the interference isn't solely dependent on the proximity of the cables. Also, while 'replacing all Ethernet cables with fiber optic cables' could theoretically fix the problem, it would be significantly more expensive and time-consuming than merely replacing the existing cables with shielded versions. 'Disabling all wireless devices' isn't a practical solution as it would impede normal office operations.

Correct Answer: The presence of electromagnetic interference (EMI)

The decision to use shielded or unshielded cables in network installations largely depends on the presence of electromagnetic interference (EMI). Shielded cables are designed to prevent EMI from affecting the data transmitted through the cables. This makes them ideal for environments with a high level of EMI. On the other hand, unshielded cables are more vulnerable to EMI but are typically cheaper and easier to install. Therefore, when choosing between shielded and unshielded cables, the technician should consider the presence of EMI in the environment where the cables will be installed. The color of the cables does not influence the network's performance. The availability of wireless devices is unrelated to the choice of cables. The cost of Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches does not affect the choice between shielded and unshielded cables.