Network Troubleshooting

Correct Answer: Verify DHCP server settings and ensure the computer is set to obtain an IP address automatically

When a computer has been assigned an incorrect IP address, the first step should be to verify the DHCP server settings and ensure that the computer is set to obtain an IP address automatically. This is the most likely cause of the issue and the easiest to resolve. Disabling and re-enabling the network interface card or updating the network driver may resolve connectivity issues, but they do not address the root cause of an incorrect IP address. Reinstalling the operating system is unnecessary and would be a last resort if other troubleshooting steps have failed.

Correct Answer: Check for disabled ports

The best step forward when several ports are not functioning on a newly set up switch is to 'Check for disabled ports'. Ports on a switch may be manually disabled for various reasons. Hence, it's best to check them first before taking any other steps. The other suggested solutions, although possible, are less likely. 'Update switch firmware' could help if the issue is related to software bugs or compatibility problems, but usually, it's not the immediate step to take. 'Reset switch configuration' can be a drastic step that might disturb the current network setup and thus, should only be taken if no other troubleshooting step works. Lastly, 'Installing a stronger Wi-Fi antenna' doesn't apply to this scenario since the issue is related to physical, wired ports on the switch, not to wireless signal range or strength.

Correct Answer: Verify routing configuration

The correct action to take when users on one Local Area Network (LAN) can't access resources on another LAN is to 'Verify routing configuration'. This is because, in such scenarios, it's often the case that the router configurations are incorrect or not properly set up to allow communication between the two networks. Given that the two LANs are connected via routers, it's the job of these routers to facilitate communication between the two networks, and so it's logical to first check if they're doing their job correctly. Misconfigurations can lead to one network being unreachable from the other, hence checking router configurations should be the first step. The other options are less likely to be the cause of the problem. 'Change cable type' doesn't necessarily solve the issue unless it was identified that the problem was caused by the type of cable used. 'Replace the routers' would be a drastic action to take and would only be considered if it was proven that the routers were faulty. And finally, 'Update router firmware' might not necessarily solve the issues if the routing configurations on the firmware are not correctly set up in the first place.