100-150 Question 181
Single answerA user on a corporate network reports that they cannot access a remote website. You investigate and find that their PC is connected to a Layer 2 switch. The switch is correctly configured, and the PC has a valid IP address. However, the default gateway address on the PC is incorrect. Why is the default gateway configuration important for accessing remote networks?
- A
The default gateway is responsible for forwarding traffic to devices outside the local network.
- B
The default gateway ensures that Layer 2 switches can forward traffic between VLANs.
- C
The default gateway acts as the DHCP server, assigning IP addresses to devices in the network.
- D
The default gateway is used by Layer 2 switches to determine the MAC address of remote devices.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
In a network, the default gateway is typically a router or Layer 3 device that routes traffic from the local network to other networks. Without the correct default gateway, devices cannot communicate with remote networks, even if local connectivity is functional. In this scenario, the PC's incorrect default gateway prevents it from reaching the remote website.
- A. Correct.
Correct. The default gateway is critical for routing traffic from the local network to remote networks, such as the internet.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Layer 2 switches do not directly participate in routing traffic between VLANs; this is a Layer 3 function typically performed by a router or Layer 3 switch.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. The default gateway is not responsible for assigning IP addresses; this is the role of a DHCP server.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. Layer 2 switches use MAC addresses for local forwarding but do not rely on the default gateway for determining the MAC address of remote devices.