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N10-009 CompTIA Practice Test Questions and Exam Dumps

Question No 1:

What is the primary purpose of a subnet mask?

A. To divide a network into smaller subnetworks
B. To encrypt data being transmitted over a network
C. To determine the type of device on the network
D. To convert a domain name into an IP address

Answer: A

Explanation:

A subnet mask is a 32-bit address used in networking to divide a larger network into smaller, more manageable subnets. The primary function of a subnet mask is to help distinguish which part of an IP address represents the network portion and which part represents the host portion. By doing so, a subnet mask enables the creation of subnets within a larger network. This allows for better utilization of IP address spaces, improved network performance, and enhanced security.

Subnetting, the process of dividing a network into subnets, is crucial for managing large networks. For example, in a large organization with thousands of devices, subnetting helps group devices into smaller sections or segments. This makes it easier for network administrators to manage the network, optimize routing, and reduce broadcast traffic that could otherwise slow down the network.

A subnet mask works by marking the network portion with a series of ones and the host portion with zeros. For instance, a common subnet mask like 255.255.255.0 designates the first three octets (255.255.255) as the network portion, while the last octet (0) is used for identifying individual hosts. Another common subnet mask, 255.255.0.0, defines a larger network, allowing for more hosts within each subnet.

The other options are incorrect:

• B (Encrypting data) refers to data encryption protocols like SSL/TLS, not the function of a subnet mask.

• C (Determining device type) involves protocols such as ARP or network discovery tools, not a subnet mask.

• D (Converting domain names to IP addresses) is the job of DNS (Domain Name System), not the subnet mask.

Thus, the correct answer is A, as the primary role of a subnet mask is to divide a network into smaller subnetworks for more efficient network management.

Question No 2:

Which protocol is used to securely browse websites?

A. HTTP
B. FTP
C. HTTPS
D. SMTP

Answer: C

Explanation:

To securely browse websites, the protocol used is HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure). HTTPS is an extension of HTTP, designed to provide a secure and encrypted connection between a web browser and the web server.

Unlike HTTP, which sends data in plain text, HTTPS uses encryption protocols like SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) to ensure that the data exchanged between the user's browser and the server is encrypted and secure from potential interception or tampering by malicious actors. This makes HTTPS essential when handling sensitive information, such as passwords, credit card details, and other private data.

In practical terms, when you visit a website with HTTPS, you’ll see a padlock symbol in the browser’s address bar, indicating that the connection is secure. This encryption ensures that even if the data is intercepted during transmission, it cannot be read by unauthorized parties.

• Option A — HTTP is the non-secure version of HTTPS. It does not provide encryption, meaning any data exchanged between the user and the website could be intercepted or altered.

• Option B — FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used for transferring files between computers but does not secure data transfers. The secure version of FTP is FTPS.

• Option D — SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is used for sending emails, but it does not deal with web browsing or securing website traffic.

Therefore, C) HTTPS is the correct choice because it ensures secure browsing by encrypting the communication between the user and the website.

Question No 3:

Which layer of the OSI model is responsible for establishing, managing, and terminating connections?

A) Application layer
B) Transport layer
C) Network layer
D) Session layer

Correct answer: D)

Explanation:

The Session layer (Layer 5 of the OSI model) is responsible for establishing, managing, and terminating sessions between two communicating devices. It provides a structured means for applications to communicate with each other across a network, ensuring that data flows correctly and reliably during a session. This layer is essential in handling long-term communication, such as video calls, file transfers, or any scenario where multiple exchanges of data are needed between the devices.

One of the key functions of the Session layer is to maintain synchronization during communication. For example, if there are multiple data exchanges, the Session layer ensures the proper sequencing of data so that each part arrives in the correct order. It also manages the opening, closing, and control of communication sessions between applications on different devices. The Session layer can implement recovery mechanisms for interrupted sessions, making it particularly useful when dealing with unreliable networks or long-lasting connections.

While other layers of the OSI model have their own responsibilities:

• A) Application layer: This layer (Layer 7) interacts directly with software applications, facilitating communication between the user's application and the underlying network. However, it does not manage the session or the connection itself.

• B) Transport layer: The Transport layer (Layer 4) ensures reliable data transmission by providing error correction, flow control, and data segmentation. It does manage data integrity and provides reliable or unreliable communication services but does not focus on the establishment or termination of sessions.

• C) Network layer: The Network layer (Layer 3) is responsible for routing data across different networks, ensuring that data can travel from its source to its destination through the correct path. It handles packet forwarding and addressing, such as using IP addresses, but is not responsible for session management.

Thus, the Session layer is the correct layer that manages the session establishment, maintenance, and termination.

Question No 4:

Which of the following devices operates at the data link layer of the OSI model?

A) Router
B) Switch
C) Hub
D) Modem

Correct answer: B)

Explanation:

A switch operates at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. The primary function of a switch is to forward data between devices within the same local area network (LAN) by using MAC (Media Access Control) addresses, which are unique identifiers assigned to each device’s network interface card (NIC). The switch intelligently forwards data to the correct device based on its MAC address, unlike a hub, which broadcasts data to all devices on the network. This selective forwarding improves network efficiency by reducing unnecessary traffic and collisions.

Switches also support network segmentation, meaning they can divide a large network into smaller segments, improving performance and managing traffic more effectively. Advanced features, such as VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), allow for better organization, security, and traffic isolation within a network.

Here’s a breakdown of the other devices:

• A) Router: A router operates at the Network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. It is responsible for forwarding data between different networks, using IP addresses to route data packets across multiple networks or subnets.

• C) Hub: A hub operates at the Physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model. It is a basic network device that broadcasts incoming data to all connected devices without any intelligence, which can lead to collisions and unnecessary network traffic.

• D) Modem: A modem operates at the Physical layer (Layer 1) and the Data Link layer (Layer 2) in some cases. It converts digital signals from a computer into analog signals for transmission over telephone lines and vice versa. The modem handles the modulation and demodulation of data for communication over long distances but does not provide the same functionality as a switch.

Thus, the correct device operating at the Data Link layer of the OSI model is B) Switch.

Question No 5:

Which of the following devices operates at the data link layer of the OSI model?

A) Router
B) Switch
C) Hub
D) Modem

Correct answer: B)

Explanation:

A switch operates at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model. Its primary role is to forward data between devices within the same Local Area Network (LAN). The switch uses MAC (Media Access Control) addresses, unique identifiers assigned to each device’s network interface card (NIC), to intelligently direct data to the correct destination device. Unlike a hub, which simply broadcasts data to all devices in the network, a switch selectively forwards the data to the intended recipient, improving network efficiency and reducing traffic.

Additionally, switches help with network segmentation, breaking up a larger network into smaller segments. This helps improve network performance and manage traffic more effectively. Advanced capabilities such as VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks) also allow for better traffic isolation, organization, and security within the network.

Now, let’s review the other devices:

• A) Router: A router operates at the Network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model. It is responsible for routing data between different networks or subnets based on IP addresses. Routers decide the best path for data to travel across different networks, but they do not perform data forwarding based on MAC addresses.

• C) Hub: A hub works at the Physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model. It is a simple, basic device that broadcasts incoming data to all connected devices, regardless of the intended recipient. Hubs do not have the intelligence to direct traffic selectively, leading to network inefficiencies and potential collisions.

• D) Modem: A modem generally operates at the Physical layer (Layer 1) and occasionally at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) for certain aspects of data transmission. It is responsible for modulating and demodulating digital signals into analog signals for communication over telephone lines or cable systems. While it may interact with the Data Link layer for the data link protocol, it does not have the same function as a switch.

Therefore, the device that operates at the Data Link layer of the OSI model is B) Switch.

Question No 6:

Which of the following is the most secure type of wireless encryption?

A) WEP
B) WPA
C) WPA2
D) TKIP

Correct answer: C)

Explanation:

WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) is currently the most secure wireless encryption protocol available. It uses Advanced Encryption Standard (AES), a highly secure encryption algorithm that is resistant to attacks. AES is widely regarded as one of the strongest encryption methods and is used in various security protocols around the world, making WPA2 the standard for secure wireless communication.

WPA2 replaced WPA (Wi-Fi Protected Access), which was an improvement over the older WEP (Wired Equivalent Privacy), but still had vulnerabilities, primarily because it used TKIP (Temporal Key Integrity Protocol) as its encryption mechanism. TKIP was designed to address some of the weaknesses in WEP, but it is not as secure as AES and is now considered outdated.

Here's a breakdown of the other options:

• A) WEP: WEP is the oldest wireless encryption protocol and is considered highly insecure. It uses the RC4 encryption algorithm, which is vulnerable to multiple types of attacks. WEP has been deprecated for many years due to its weaknesses and should not be used for any secure network.

• B) WPA: WPA was introduced as a more secure alternative to WEP and uses TKIP for encryption. While WPA was an improvement over WEP, it is still susceptible to some attacks, and TKIP is considered weak compared to AES. WPA is also now largely outdated, with WPA2 being the recommended standard.

• D) TKIP: TKIP is an encryption method used in WPA and is considered less secure than AES. Although it was designed to provide a temporary solution to WEP's vulnerabilities, TKIP is now deprecated in favor of AES. TKIP is not a standalone encryption method and should not be used on its own.

In conclusion, WPA2 with AES encryption provides the highest level of security for wireless networks and is the recommended choice for protecting sensitive data. Therefore, the correct answer is C) WPA2.

Question No 7:

Which protocol is used to automatically assign IP addresses to devices on a network?

A) DNS
B) DHCP
C) FTP
D) SNMP

Correct answer: B)

Explanation:

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) is the protocol used to automatically assign IP addresses to devices on a network. When a device (such as a computer, smartphone, or printer) connects to the network, it sends a request to the DHCP server. The server then assigns an available IP address from a pool of addresses and provides other essential network configuration details, such as the subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS server addresses.

This automated process simplifies network management by eliminating the need for network administrators to manually assign IP addresses to each device. It also helps reduce the likelihood of address conflicts, as the DHCP server ensures that each device receives a unique IP address from the pool. Additionally, DHCP can manage the lease of IP addresses, so devices can be reassigned new IPs when they disconnect and reconnect to the network, further enhancing network flexibility.

Here’s a look at the other options:

• A) DNS (Domain Name System) is a protocol used to translate human-readable domain names (like www.example.com) into IP addresses. It is not involved in the assignment of IP addresses to devices on the network.

• C) FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used to transfer files between devices over a network. It is not used for IP address assignment.

• D) SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is used for monitoring and managing network devices, but it does not assign IP addresses. It is used for managing devices like routers, switches, and servers in a network.

Therefore, the correct protocol for automatically assigning IP addresses to devices is B) DHCP.

Question No 8:

Which of the following is a characteristic of a VPN?

A) It allows users to access a network over a secure, encrypted connection
B) It provides a direct physical connection between remote offices
C) It requires all traffic to be unencrypted for efficiency
D) It relies on an Internet Service Provider's backbone for connectivity

Answer: A) It allows users to access a network over a secure, encrypted connection

Explanation:

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) allows users to securely access a private network over a public network, typically the internet. It creates a secure, encrypted tunnel that ensures data confidentiality and integrity during transmission. VPNs are commonly used by remote workers to securely connect to their company’s internal resources or to browse the internet anonymously. The encrypted connection prevents unauthorized users from accessing sensitive data, making it ideal for secure communication in both corporate and personal settings.

The CompTIA Network+ N10-009 exam tests a candidate's knowledge and ability to manage, troubleshoot, and secure network infrastructures. It covers topics such as IP addressing, network protocols, and devices, as well as security measures that ensure data protection during transmission. This exam emphasizes the importance of understanding key networking concepts, such as subnetting, encryption, and the OSI model, as well as troubleshooting skills. With the ever-increasing reliance on digital communication, network professionals must be well-versed in securing and maintaining the efficiency of networks. Mastering these core principles prepares candidates for careers in IT, where they can ensure that networks are both functional and secure, supporting businesses and organizations effectively in the digital world. The exam's broad scope equips candidates with the expertise needed to tackle real-world networking challenges and evolve with emerging technologies such as cloud computing, SDN (Software-Defined Networking), and IoT (Internet of Things).

Question No 9:

What is the primary function of a subnet mask?

A) To create and define a network structure
B) To divide a network into smaller subnetworks
C) To route traffic between networks
D) To convert domain names to IP addresses

Correct answer: B)

Explanation:

The primary function of a subnet mask is to divide a network into smaller subnetworks. It is a critical component in IP addressing that helps determine how an IP address is split between the network portion and the host portion. By doing so, the subnet mask enables network segmentation, allowing a larger network to be broken down into more manageable, smaller subnets. This segmentation is beneficial for address management, improving network performance, and enhancing security.

A subnet mask works by "masking" part of the IP address to indicate which portion represents the network and which portion is reserved for hosts (individual devices within the network). This helps direct network traffic within a subnet and ensures that traffic is correctly routed when it needs to traverse across different subnets.

For example, a common subnet mask like 255.255.255.0 used in small networks means that the first three octets (the "255.255.255" part) represent the network portion of the address, and the last octet (".0") is used for the host portion. This allows for up to 254 host devices in the subnet.

Now, let's break down the other options:

• A) To create and define a network structure: While the subnet mask helps define how the network is structured, its primary role is in dividing a network into subnets, not in creating the overall structure of the network.

• C) To route traffic between networks: Routing is the responsibility of routers, not subnet masks. Routers use the network portion of an IP address to forward traffic between different networks or subnets, but they rely on the subnet mask to understand which part of the IP address refers to the network.

• D) To convert domain names to IP addresses: This is the role of the DNS (Domain Name System), not the subnet mask. DNS resolves human-readable domain names (like www.example.com) into IP addresses so that network devices can communicate using IP addresses.

Thus, the correct answer is B) To divide a network into smaller subnetworks. Subnet masks allow for better network management, improved performance, and increased security by isolating different parts of a network.

Question No 10:

Which of the following protocols is used for secure communication over the web?

A) HTTP
B) FTP
C) HTTPS
D) SMTP

Answer: C

Explanation:

HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) is the protocol used for secure communication over the web. It is an extension of HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol) but with added security through encryption. The key difference between HTTP and HTTPS is that HTTPS uses SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) or TLS (Transport Layer Security) encryption protocols to encrypt the data exchanged between the client (typically a web browser) and the web server. This encryption ensures that any sensitive data transmitted, such as passwords, credit card details, or personal information, is protected from being intercepted or tampered with by unauthorized parties.

When a user visits a website using HTTPS, the communication between the web browser and the server is encrypted, providing a layer of security that prevents man-in-the-middle attacks and eavesdropping. Websites using HTTPS are easily identifiable, as the URL will begin with "https://" instead of "http://," and browsers often display a padlock icon in the address bar to indicate that the connection is secure.

In contrast, the other options listed are not related to secure web communication:

• HTTP (Option A): HTTP is the standard protocol for transmitting web pages, but it does not offer any encryption or security. It is vulnerable to interception and attacks, which is why HTTPS is used for secure communication.

• FTP (Option B): FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is used for transferring files over a network. While FTP itself does not provide security, there are secure versions such as FTPS or SFTP. However, FTP is not used for secure web communication.

• SMTP (Option D): SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) is a protocol used for sending email. Like FTP, it does not offer encryption or security by default, although secure variants such as SMTPS (SMTP Secure) can be used for encrypted email communication.

In summary, HTTPS is the protocol that ensures secure communication over the web, using SSL/TLS encryption to protect data from being intercepted or modified during transmission.