220-1201 Practice Question: A client in a dense urban apartment building…

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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  Cable broadband

  Why it's wrong here

  Cable broadband utilizes the same coaxial cable infrastructure as cable television, relying on Data Over Cable Service Interface Specification (DOCSIS) standards to transmit data. For a client in an apartment building, the absence of a pre-installed coaxial outlet means the necessary physical connection for a cable modem is unavailable. Installing new coaxial wiring in an existing apartment unit can be complex, costly, and often requires landlord or building management approval, making it an impractical solution.

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  DSL

  Why this is correct

  Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) technology delivers internet access over standard copper telephone lines, leveraging higher frequencies than those used for voice calls. This means it can operate simultaneously with traditional phone service without requiring new wiring, provided a phone jack is present. In dense urban apartment buildings, existing telephone infrastructure is almost universally available, making DSL a readily accessible and cost-effective option for internet connectivity.

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  Satellite

  Why it's wrong here

  Satellite internet requires a clear line of sight to an orbiting satellite and the installation of an external dish antenna, typically on a roof or balcony. In a dense urban apartment building, obstructions from other buildings, lack of direct access to suitable mounting locations, or strict Homeowners Association (HOA) rules often prohibit such installations. Furthermore, satellite internet typically suffers from higher latency compared to terrestrial options, which can impact real-time applications.

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  Fiber-optic

  Why it's wrong here

  Fiber-optic internet, delivering data via light pulses through glass strands, offers superior speeds and reliability. However, its availability depends on whether the building or neighborhood has been equipped with Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) or Fiber-to-the-Building (FTTB) infrastructure. Many older urban apartment buildings may not have this advanced wiring installed, and the cost of extending fiber to individual units can be prohibitive for both providers and tenants, making it a less guaranteed option.

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