Quick Answer
The correct order begins with ipconfig /all to verify the client’s IP settings, then tests the local TCP/IP stack with ping 127.0.0.1, followed by pinging the client’s own IP to confirm the NIC and configuration, then pinging the default gateway to check local network connectivity, and finally pinging the remote server to test end-to-end, with tracert used to isolate the failure point if the remote ping fails. This layered approach is correct because it systematically narrows the problem scope from the host itself outward, ensuring each layer of the OSI model is validated before moving to the next—a fundamental principle of Windows client connectivity troubleshooting command order. On the CCNA 200-301 v2 exam, this drag-and-drop task tests your ability to apply structured network troubleshooting methodology, and a common trap is starting with the remote server ping or skipping the loopback test. Remember the mnemonic “I-P-P-G-R” for ipconfig, ping 127.0.0.1, ping own IP, ping gateway, then remote server—always verify yourself before blaming the network.
CCNA Network Infrastructure and Connectivity Practice Question
This 200-301 practice question tests your understanding of network infrastructure and connectivity. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
Drag and drop the following steps into the correct order to troubleshoot a Windows client that is unable to reach a remote server.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Run ipconfig /all to check IP configuration, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers.
The correct order begins with ipconfig /all to verify the client's IP settings, then tests the local TCP/IP stack with ping 127.0.0.1. Next, pinging the client's own IP confirms the NIC and configuration. Pinging the default gateway checks local network connectivity, and pinging the remote server tests end-to-end. Finally, tracert isolates the failure point if the remote ping fails. This layered approach narrows the problem scope from the host itself outward.
Key principle: Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: usable hosts are not the same as total addresses
Subnetting questions often tempt you into counting all addresses. In normal IPv4 subnets, the network and broadcast addresses are not usable host addresses.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Subnetting questions test whether you can identify the network, broadcast address, usable range, mask and correct subnet. Slow down enough to calculate the block size correctly.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
- Block size helps identify subnet boundaries.
- Network and broadcast addresses are not usable hosts in normal IPv4 subnets.
- The required host count determines the smallest suitable subnet.
TExam Day Tips
- Write the block size before choosing the subnet.
- Check whether the question asks for hosts, subnets or a specific address range.
- Do not confuse /24, /25, /26 and /27 host counts.
Key takeaway
Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A network engineer segments a warehouse floor into three subnets: 20 scanners, 5 printers, and 2 management hosts. Picking the wrong mask wastes addresses or leaves too few usable hosts. Exam questions test whether you can apply CIDR notation, calculate block size, and identify the correct usable-host range for a given prefix.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related 200-301 subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 200-301 question test?
Network Infrastructure and Connectivity — This question tests Network Infrastructure and Connectivity — CIDR notation defines the prefix length..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Run ipconfig /all to check IP configuration, subnet mask, default gateway, and DNS servers. — The correct order begins with ipconfig /all to verify the client's IP settings, then tests the local TCP/IP stack with ping 127.0.0.1. Next, pinging the client's own IP confirms the NIC and configuration. Pinging the default gateway checks local network connectivity, and pinging the remote server tests end-to-end. Finally, tracert isolates the failure point if the remote ping fails. This layered approach narrows the problem scope from the host itself outward.
What should I do if I get this 200-301 question wrong?
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related 200-301 subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
What is the key concept behind this question?
CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
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Last reviewed: Jun 14, 2026
This 200-301 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 200-301 exam.
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