CompTIA
N10-005 · Question #619
N10-005 Question #619: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation
The correct answer is A: Switches packets within the same subnet based on MAC addresses. A Layer 2 switch uses MAC addresses to forward frames between devices within the same subnet. It does not use IP addresses and does not route between subnets.
Question
Which of the following BEST describes how a layer 2 switch functions?
Options
- ASwitches packets within the same subnet based on MAC addresses
- BSwitches packets between different subnets based on IP addresses
- CSwitches packets between different subnets based on MAC addresses
- DSwitches packets within the same subnet based on IP addresses
Explanation
A Layer 2 switch uses MAC addresses to forward frames between devices within the same subnet. It does not use IP addresses and does not route between subnets.
Common mistakes.
- B. Routing packets between different subnets based on IP addresses is the function of a Layer 3 router or a Layer 3 switch, not a Layer 2 switch.
- C. A Layer 2 switch does not route between different subnets at all - it only forwards within the same subnet, and it uses MAC addresses, not IP addresses.
- D. Layer 2 switches do not use IP addresses for forwarding decisions - IP-based forwarding is a Layer 3 function performed by routers.
Concept tested. Layer 2 switch MAC-based forwarding within a subnet
Reference. https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/tech/lan-switching/index.html
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