200-301 Question 9
Single answerA network administrator is tasked with deploying a new switch in a branch office. The requirements are as follows:
- The device must perform inter-VLAN routing to connect devices in different VLANs.
- The device should support basic Layer 2 functionalities, such as VLAN configuration and MAC address learning. Which type of switch should the administrator deploy to meet these requirements?
- A
Layer 2 switch
- B
Layer 3 switch
- C
Unmanaged switch
- D
Hub
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
To meet the requirements of performing inter-VLAN routing (a Layer 3 function) and supporting VLAN configuration and MAC address learning (Layer 2 functions), the network administrator needs to deploy a Layer 3 switch. A Layer 2 switch, unmanaged switch, or hub cannot satisfy both requirements.
- A. Incorrect.
A Layer 2 switch can perform VLAN configuration and MAC address learning, but it cannot perform inter-VLAN routing as it operates only at Layer 2.
- B. Correct.
A Layer 3 switch is capable of performing both Layer 2 functionalities (such as VLAN configuration and MAC address learning) and Layer 3 functionalities (such as inter-VLAN routing), making it the correct choice.
- C. Incorrect.
An unmanaged switch lacks the capability to perform advanced features like VLAN configuration or inter-VLAN routing, making it unsuitable for this scenario.
- D. Incorrect.
A hub is a basic Layer 1 device that cannot perform any Layer 2 or Layer 3 functions, including VLAN configuration or inter-VLAN routing.