Troubleshooting Networking Issues: N10-007 Exam Question

Two computers are connected to a multilayer switch, and both can access the corporate file server.

The computers cannot talk to one another.

Which of the following is MOST likely the cause?

A.

Duplex/speed mismatch

B.

ACL misconfiguration

C.

Bad port

D.

Crosstalk.

B.

The most likely cause of two computers not being able to communicate with each other when connected to a multilayer switch but able to access the corporate file server is an ACL misconfiguration. ACLs (Access Control Lists) are used to control traffic flow in a network by allowing or denying packets based on specific criteria such as source and destination IP addresses, ports, and protocols.

In this scenario, the ACL could be configured to allow traffic to and from the file server but not between the two computers. This could happen if the ACL is not configured properly, or if it is designed to prevent communication between certain devices on the network.

The other options listed are less likely to be the cause of the problem. Duplex/speed mismatch occurs when two devices are not set to the same speed or duplex setting, which could cause connectivity issues, but it would not prevent communication between two computers. A bad port or crosstalk would cause a complete loss of connectivity rather than selective communication between devices.

Therefore, the most likely cause of the problem is an ACL misconfiguration, and checking the ACL configuration on the switch would be the best place to start troubleshooting.