Crossover Cable

Correct Answer: Crossover cable

The correct answer is a Crossover cable. When directly connecting two computers without a network device such as a switch or hub, a crossover cable is used. This type of cable allows for direct data transfers between the two computers by reversing (or 'crossing over') the transmission and receiving pins. On the other hand, a straight-through cable, which is used when connecting devices of different types (such as a computer and a switch), is not suitable for this task because it does not cross over the transmission and receiving pins. A rolled cable, often used in older networking settings, is now obsolete and would not be used for connecting modern computers. As for fiber-optic cable, although it is capable of high-speed data transmission, it requires specific devices to convert the signals from electrical to optical and vice versa, and is thus is not typically used for a simple direct connection between two computers.

Correct Answer: Faulty cable

The most likely reason two devices that support Auto-MDIX are not communicating is faulty cable. Auto-MDIX is a technology that automatically detects whether a cable is a straight-through or crossover and adjusts accordingly, so different cable types should not be an issue. Incorrect IP configuration is usually connected with interoperability between the devices in the same network, rather than with direct connectivity issues. A VLAN configuration issue could cause the devices to become isolated from each other but this is highly unlikely in this scenario since we are trying to diagnose a direct connection issue between two devices, not a network partitioning issue.

Correct Answer: Either a straight-through or a crossover cable

When connecting two switches, you can use either a straight-through or a crossover cable. In modern networking devices, such as 10/100/1000 switches, a feature named Auto-MDIX (Automatic Medium-Dependent Interface Crossover) is typically present. This feature automatically detects the required cable connection type (straight-through or crossover) and configures the connection appropriately. Hence, either a straight-through or a crossover cable could be used. A straight-through cable only, or a crossover cable only would also work, but these choices limit the versatility of your network. Finally, using a rolled cable is incorrect since rolled cables are used for serial connections, not Ethernet connections.