Infrastructure

Correct Answer: To block unauthorized access to a network

The main purpose of a firewall is to block unauthorized access to a network. This is achieved by creating a barrier between the internal network that needs to be protected and the external network, such as the internet. All incoming and outgoing traffic to the network is monitored and controlled by the firewall based on predetermined security rules, therefore it prevents unauthorized access by potential hackers and malicious software. The answer 'To accelerate internet speeds' is incorrect because a firewall does not improve or affect the speed of the internet. Its primary function is about security, not speed The option 'To restrict access to certain websites' could be partially correct in a very specific context as firewalls can be configured to block access to certain websites, but this is not its main function The final option 'To share internet access among multiple devices' is also not the primary purpose of a firewall. This function is typically performed by a modem or router. Thus, while a firewall can be part of a device that shares an internet connection, its main role in itself, is not to distribute the connection.

Correct Answer: 62

The question relates to the number of hosts a given network can address. In this case, it's a /26 network. This term refers to the number of bits used for the network portion of the address. For an IPv4 address, which is 32 bits long, there are 32 - 26 = 6 bits for host addresses. To calculate the number of possible hosts, we use the formula (2^n) - 2, where 'n' is the number of bits available for host addresses. For a /26 network, this calculates as (2^6) - 2 = 64 - 2 = 62. So the answer is '62'. The '30' answer assumes a /27 network. '126' corresponds to a /25 network and the '254' answer corresponds to a /24 network. Therefore, these answers are incorrect.

Correct Answer: To uniquely identify a network device

The primary purpose of a Media Access Control (MAC) address is to uniquely identify a network device such as a network card in a computer or a router. Each MAC address is exclusive to the network interface card manufactured, thereby assuring that each network device has a unique identifier. It assures that the data is sent to the correct device. The option 'To encrypt network traffic' is incorrect, as MAC addresses don't have anything to do with encryption. They merely identify devices. The option 'To assign IP addresses to network devices' is also incorrect as MAC addresses and IP addresses are assigned differently. While IP addresses can change and be assigned dynamically, MAC addresses are embedded into the device. Finally, the 'To filter network traffic' option is incorrect. While some firewalls and security systems can filter traffic based on MAC addresses, that is not the primary function or purpose of a MAC address.