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Patch Panel

5 minutes 5 Questions

A patch panel is a device used in networking environments to simplify cable management and organization. It functions as a centralized hub that collects and distributes data between different devices within a network. The patch panel contains numbered ports where Ethernet cables from various networ…

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CompTIA Network+ - Patch Panel Example Questions

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Question 1

An organization is expanding its network topology and a technician needs to decide on the best type of patch panel to use. They require a patch panel with the ability to support both copper and fiber cables. Which type of patch panel should they choose?

Correct Answer: A mixed media patch panel

A mixed media patch panel is able to support both copper and fiber cables, making it the optimal choice for an organization looking to expand its network topology with versatile cabling options. A standard copper patch panel only supports copper cables and a fiber optic patch panel only supports fiber cables. Meanwhile, a keystone patch panel with only copper jacks, although it can accommodate a variety of cable types depending on the jacks installed, is here specified to have only copper jacks, therefore it does not meet the requirement of supporting both copper and fiber cables.

Question 2

An administrator notices that the performance of their network seems to be slow. After checking the patch panel, they see that all cables are Cat5e. They want to upgrade the cables to improve network performance. Which type of cables should they choose?

Correct Answer: Cat6 or Cat6a cables

The best choice for increasing network performance would be to upgrade to Cat6 or Cat6a cables. Cat6 and Cat6a cables are designed to deliver faster speeds and higher frequency, which improves network performance as compared to Cat5e cables. The other options are not as suitable: Cat3 cables are older standards and provide a much lower network speed compared to even Cat5e cables. Coaxial cables, on the other hand, are typically used for video and other applications that don't require the high-speed data transfer network would need. Lastly, upgrading to Cat5e cables with gold-plated connectors might provide a slightly better connection quality, but it won't enhance the overall network performance to the same extent as upgrading to Cat6 or Cat6a cables would.

Question 3

A network administrator is setting up a patch panel to reduce cable clutter in their server room. What would be the best approach?

Correct Answer: Organize cables according to their destination and label them clearly

The best approach for a network administrator setting up a patch panel to reduce cable clutter in their server room would be to 'Organize cables according to their destination and label them clearly'. This approach helps maintain an efficient and organized infrastructure, making it easier to locate and troubleshoot cables if necessary. The idea of using the 'longest possible cables' is incorrect as it contradicts the goal of reducing clutter; excessive cable lengths can lead to further disorganization and potential damage. It's also incorrect to 'Avoid labeling cables to save time' as labeling is a crucial step for successful management and future troubleshooting. Finally, the idea to 'Randomly connect cables to available ports' is not advisable as it can create confusion and complicate troubleshooting.

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