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101 · Question #593
101 Question #593: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation
The correct answer is C: the SYN/ACK packet. Both peers advertise their Maximum Segment Size (MSS) in the TCP Options field of their respective SYN packets during the three-way handshake. The server's MSS is carried in its SYN/ACK packet.
Question
During a TCP three-way handshake, which packet indicates the serves maximum segment (MSS)?
Options
- Athe initial SYN packet
- Bthe ACK that completes the three way handshake
- Cthe SYN/ACK packet
- Dthe first packet after the three-way handshake
Explanation
Both peers advertise their Maximum Segment Size (MSS) in the TCP Options field of their respective SYN packets during the three-way handshake. The server's MSS is carried in its SYN/ACK packet.
Common mistakes.
- A. The initial SYN packet originates from the client and carries the client's MSS value, not the server's.
- B. The final ACK that completes the handshake does not carry MSS options; MSS negotiation only occurs in packets that have the SYN flag set.
- D. The first data packet sent after the handshake is complete is not part of connection establishment and does not contain MSS negotiation.
Concept tested. TCP three-way handshake server MSS advertisement
Reference. https://www.rfc-editor.org/rfc/rfc9293
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