Daisy Chain Topology

Correct Answer: Transition to a star topology

The most suitable solution to the regular connectivity issues in a classroom's computer network using a daisy chain topology would be to 'Transition to a star topology'. Daisy chain topology is pretty outdated and issues can occur if one of the computers in the chain is down. It would impact all other computers downstream of the faulty one. In comparison, star topology offers centralization, individual nodes have a direct connection to a central switch or hub which greatly improves fault isolation, network management, and overall network stability. Adding more devices to the daisy chain or merely replacing cables would not address these inherent design issues of a daisy chain. While adding a switch could potentially alleviate some issues, it all depends on how it's implemented. Without addressing the fundamental topology issue, it may or may not yield the desired improvements.

Correct Answer: Connect the new device at the end of the chain

In a daisy chain network topology, devices are connected to each other in a line or a ring. Therefore, the most appropriate method for connection would be to attach the new device at the end of the chain. Connecting the new device in the middle of the chain would disrupt the chain and may cause network issues. Adding a new switch and connecting the device directly to it does not adhere to the nature of the daisy chain topology. Replacing the last device in the chain with the new one might not be optimal if the last device is still required for the network operation.

Correct Answer: Degrading signal over long chain

The issue with the daisy chain topology in an office experiencing slow network speeds could likely be the degrading signal over a long chain. Because in a daisy chain topology, each device is connected in a sequence or a ring - meaning, a device communicates upstream through a series of other nodes before reaching the main server, a longer chain of devices can increase transmission delays and thus slow down network speeds. When the chain becomes too long, the signal strength might degrade leading to data loss and slow network speeds. Meanwhile the option 'insufficient switches' is not likely to be the cause because in a daisy chain topology, you often don't have a central switch that all devices connect to. The 'disconnected device' can cause a disruption of the network in this topology, but not necessarily slow speeds. The reason 'mismatched IP addresses' is incorrect is because it more typically leads to certain devices being unable to connect to the network at all, rather than causing an overall slow network speed.