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220-1201 Practice Question: A small business is moving to a new office that…
A small business is moving to a new office that already has a fiber-optic termination point installed. They need the fastest symmetrical speeds for cloud-based applications. Which internet connection type should they choose?
⚠ Common exam trap
CompTIA A+ often tests the misconception that 'fast download speeds' (as with cable or DSL) are sufficient for cloud applications, but the key requirement is symmetrical speeds for bidirectional data flow, which only fiber reliably provides among the listed options.
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
✓
Fiber-optic
Fiber-optic internet provides symmetrical speeds (equal upload and download) essential for cloud-based applications that require fast data transfer in both directions. Unlike other connection types, fiber uses light signals through glass strands, offering low latency and high bandwidth that scale to meet business needs without the distance limitations of copper-based technologies.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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DSL
Why it's wrong here
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) utilizes existing copper telephone lines to transmit data. While it provides a dedicated connection, its maximum theoretical speeds are significantly lower, typically up to 100 Mbps, and often much less, especially over longer distances from the central office due to signal attenuation. This makes DSL an inadequate choice for a small business requiring high-speed, reliable connectivity for modern cloud applications and extensive data transfer, which fiber can readily provide.
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Cable broadband
Why it's wrong here
Cable broadband, typically delivered via coaxial cables, offers internet access using the Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) standard. While download speeds can be high, it is inherently an asymmetrical service, meaning upload speeds are considerably slower than download speeds due to shared bandwidth and technical limitations. This imbalance is a significant drawback for businesses heavily reliant on cloud services, video conferencing, and large data uploads, where symmetrical high-speed upload capacity is crucial for efficient operations.
- ✓
Fiber-optic
Why this is correct
Fiber-optic internet transmits data as pulses of light through thin strands of glass or plastic, offering unparalleled speed and reliability. It provides symmetrical bandwidth, meaning upload and download speeds are equally fast, which is essential for cloud-based applications, large file transfers, and real-time collaboration tools that modern businesses depend on. Furthermore, fiber connections are less susceptible to electromagnetic interference and signal degradation over distance, ensuring consistent performance for critical business operations.
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Satellite
Why it's wrong here
Satellite internet transmits data to and from geostationary or low-Earth orbit satellites, which introduces significant signal travel distances. This inherent physical distance results in very high latency, often hundreds of milliseconds, making it unsuitable for real-time interactive applications like video conferencing, VoIP, or cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. Additionally, satellite connections typically offer lower bandwidth and are susceptible to weather interference, further hindering reliable business operations.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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