220-1101 Question 124
Single answer2.5 Compare and contrast common networking hardware devices.A small business is adding a separate guest Wi-Fi network for visitors. Management wants guest devices to access the internet but not reach the company’s internal file server or employee PCs. The office already has a modem from the ISP and an unmanaged switch connecting the internal devices. Which networking hardware device should the technician install to best meet this requirement?
- A
Router
- B
Hub
- C
Patch panel
- D
Network tap
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The key requirement is separating a guest network from the internal business network while still providing internet access. Among common networking hardware devices covered in A+ Core 1 objective 2.5, the router is the correct choice because it connects distinct networks and is typically the device that enforces boundaries between them. In real deployments, small business routers or wireless routers often provide features such as NAT, DHCP, and basic firewall rules that support guest network isolation. By contrast, a hub only repeats traffic, a patch panel only organizes cabling, and a network tap is used for monitoring. This aligns with standard networking best practices and common vendor documentation, which describe routers as devices that forward packets between separate IP networks and can restrict traffic between those networks.
- A. Correct.
Correct. A router connects different networks and can separate traffic between an internal LAN and a guest network while still allowing internet access. In a small office, a router is commonly used to provide NAT, DHCP, basic firewalling, and segmentation between networks. This makes it the best choice for allowing guests to reach the internet without directly accessing internal company resources.
- B. Incorrect.
Incorrect. A hub is a legacy Layer 1 device that simply repeats traffic out all ports. It does not provide network separation, security boundaries, or traffic control. Someone might choose this option because it connects multiple devices, but it would actually make traffic handling less secure and less efficient.
- C. Incorrect.
Incorrect. A patch panel is a passive cable management device used to terminate and organize network cabling. It does not make forwarding decisions, isolate networks, or provide guest access control. This is a common misconception because patch panels are often seen in network closets alongside active networking equipment.
- D. Incorrect.
Incorrect. A network tap is used for monitoring and capturing network traffic, often for troubleshooting or security analysis. It does not route traffic between networks or enforce separation between guest and internal devices. A technician might confuse monitoring hardware with security hardware, but a tap is not designed for access control.