FC0-U71 Infrastructure Practice Question
A small business owner needs to connect three desktop computers, a network laser printer, and a broadband router in a single office. The budget is tight, and the owner wants the simplest possible wired setup that allows all devices to communicate on the same local network. Which of the following should the owner install?
⚠ Common exam trap
It's easy for candidates to confuse a patch panel with a switch, assuming that a panel used for cable termination can also direct network traffic between devices.
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
✓
An unmanaged Ethernet switch
The office needs a central device to interconnect wired computers, a printer, and a router. An unmanaged Ethernet switch fulfills this by offering multiple ports and automatic operation with no configuration. It is cost-effective and simple, matching the owner's budget and ease-of-use requirements. Other options either provide security, wireless access, or cable management but not the essential wired connectivity.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
A wireless access point
Why it's wrong here
A wireless access point extends a network by providing Wi-Fi connectivity, but the scenario specifies a wired setup for desktop computers and a printer. An access point alone does not supply the Ethernet ports needed to connect wired devices. While it could complement a switch, it does not meet the primary requirement of interconnecting wired equipment in this office.
- ✓
An unmanaged Ethernet switch
Why this is correct
An unmanaged Ethernet switch provides multiple physical ports that allow wired devices such as desktops, a printer, and a router to communicate on the same LAN without configuration. It is inexpensive, plug-and-play, and ideal for a small office. Connecting the router to the switch also shares internet access, satisfying the requirement for a simple, budget-friendly wired network.
- ✗
A hardware firewall appliance
Why it's wrong here
A hardware firewall filters incoming and outgoing traffic based on security rules, but it does not provide the physical ports needed to interconnect multiple wired devices. Without a switch or router with built-in switching, the computers and printer cannot form a LAN. The scenario requires basic connectivity, not perimeter security, so a standalone firewall appliance does not address the stated need.
- ✗
A patch panel
Why it's wrong here
A patch panel is a passive organizational tool that terminates incoming network cables and allows quick patching to a switch. It does not perform any switching or routing functions and cannot by itself connect devices into a functioning LAN. Without an active switch, the patch panel provides no network communication, making it unsuitable as the sole connectivity device.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
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