Troubleshooting a Server NIC Not Receiving an IP Address
Question
An administrator has just installed a new NIC into the server.
The system POSTs fine and the NIC is recognized by the OS, but it does not receive an IP address.
Which of the following is the MOST likely cause of this?
Answers
Explanations
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A. B. C. D.C.
When a new NIC is installed, the most likely cause of it not receiving an IP address is a problem with the configuration or installation of the NIC. There are several possible causes for this issue, but based on the information given, we can make an educated guess about the most likely one.
A. The NIC is not on the HCL (Hardware Compatibility List): This is a list of hardware devices that have been tested and verified to work with a particular operating system. If the NIC is not on the HCL, it may not be compatible with the server's OS, which could result in it not receiving an IP address. However, since the question states that the NIC is recognized by the OS, it is unlikely that this is the cause of the issue.
B. The driver is incorrect on the server: The NIC driver is responsible for allowing the NIC to communicate with the operating system. If the driver is incorrect or outdated, the NIC may not function properly, which could result in it not receiving an IP address. This is a possible cause of the issue, and it is recommended to verify that the correct driver is installed and up to date.
C. The patch cable has not been seated properly: A patch cable is used to connect the NIC to the network. If the patch cable is not connected properly, it may prevent the NIC from communicating with the network and receiving an IP address. This is a possible cause of the issue, and it is recommended to check that the patch cable is connected properly and that there are no physical defects or damage to the cable.
D. The NIC is not seated properly: If the NIC is not seated properly in the server's expansion slot, it may not function properly, which could result in it not receiving an IP address. This is a possible cause of the issue, and it is recommended to check that the NIC is securely and properly seated in the expansion slot.
Overall, while it is possible that the issue could be caused by the NIC not being on the HCL, the more likely causes are the driver being incorrect or the patch cable or NIC not being seated properly.
