CompTIA Network+ Exam: When to Use a Cross-Over Cable for Connectivity

When to Use a Cross-Over Cable for Connectivity

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Question

In which of the following scenarios should a technician use a cross-over cable to provide connectivity?

A.

PC to switch B.

Switch to AP C.

Router to switch D.

Router to modem E.

PC to PC.

E.

Explanations

In which of the following scenarios should a technician use a cross-over cable to provide connectivity?

A.

PC to switch

B.

Switch to AP

C.

Router to switch

D.

Router to modem

E.

PC to PC.

E.

A cross-over cable is a type of Ethernet cable that is used to connect two devices of the same type, such as two PCs or two switches. The cable is wired in a way that allows the transmit and receive signals to be swapped, allowing the two devices to communicate with each other.

In the scenario given in the question, the technician should use a cross-over cable when connecting two PCs directly to each other (option E). When connecting a PC to a switch (option A), a regular Ethernet cable is sufficient as the switch automatically detects the connection and adjusts the signals accordingly.

When connecting a switch to an access point (option B), a regular Ethernet cable is also sufficient. The same applies when connecting a router to a switch (option C) or a router to a modem (option D). In these cases, a regular Ethernet cable is used, as the devices are of different types and do not require the transmit and receive signals to be swapped.

In summary, a cross-over cable is only needed when connecting two devices of the same type directly to each other, such as two PCs. In all other scenarios, a regular Ethernet cable is sufficient.