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Client-Server Network Characteristics
Which TWO of the following are characteristics of a client-server network? (Choose two.)
Quick Answer
The answer is a centralized server that manages resources, along with support for a variety of client devices. This is correct because in a client-server network, the server acts as a dedicated resource manager, handling tasks like file storage, authentication, and database access, while clients—such as desktops, laptops, or smartphones—request those services from it. On the CompTIA ITF+ FC0-U61 exam, this concept tests your understanding of network architecture fundamentals, often appearing in questions that contrast client-server with peer-to-peer models. A common trap is confusing the centralized control of a server with the decentralized nature of peer-to-peer networks, where each device shares resources equally. To remember this, think of a restaurant: the server (waiter) controls and delivers resources to clients (diners), not the other way around.
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often confuse the client-server model with peer-to-peer networks, mistakenly thinking that all devices in a client-server network can act as both client and server or have equal authority, which is a direct characteristic of P2P networks, not client-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
✓
Clients can be desktop computers, laptops, or smartphones
Client-server networks are designed to support a variety of client devices, including desktop computers, laptops, and smartphones, which all connect to a centralized server to request resources or services. Option B is correct because the defining characteristic of a client-server network is the presence of a centralized server that manages resources, such as file storage, authentication, or database access, and controls access to those resources for all clients.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Clients can be desktop computers, laptops, or smartphones
Why this is correct
Clients are often end-user devices.
- ✓
There is a centralized server that manages resources
Why this is correct
Centralized server is key.
- ✗
All devices are directly connected to each other
Why it's wrong here
That is a mesh, not client-server.
- ✗
Every device can act as both client and server
Why it's wrong here
That is peer-to-peer.
- ✗
Each device has equal authority and control
Why it's wrong here
Equal authority is peer-to-peer.
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Same concept, more angles
1 more way this is tested on FC0-U71
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. Which TWO of the following are characteristics of a client-server network?
easy- A.No dedicated server required
- ✓ B.Resources are shared from servers
- ✓ C.Centralized management
- D.All devices are equal
- E.Typically used in small offices with few computers
Why B: In a client-server network, resources such as files, printers, and applications are hosted on dedicated servers and shared with client devices. This centralized resource sharing is a defining characteristic, as servers are designed to provide services to multiple clients, unlike peer-to-peer networks where each device shares its own resources directly.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This FC0-U71 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA 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 FC0-U71 exam.