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FC0-U71 Practice Question: Refer to the exhibit

Exhibit

Refer to the exhibit.

Hardware Inventory:
- Desktop computer: Intel Core i5, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- Laptop: Intel Core i3, 4GB RAM, 128GB SSD
- Network printer: HP LaserJet Pro
- Router: Linksys AC1200
- Switch: Netgear 8-port gigabit

Refer to the exhibit. Which of the following components would be used to physically connect the desktop computer to the network?

⚠ Common exam trap

Watch out — candidates often confuse the router as the primary connection point for all devices, but the router's LAN interface connects to a switch (or switch module) which actually provides the physical ports for end-user devices like desktop computers.

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

Switch

A switch is the correct component because it operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model, using MAC addresses to forward frames between devices on the same local area network (LAN). The desktop computer's Ethernet NIC connects via a twisted-pair cable to a switch port, which provides the physical and data-link layer connectivity required for network communication.

Answer analysis

Option-by-option breakdown

For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.

  • Laptop

    Why it's wrong here

    Laptop is another device.

  • Network printer

    Why it's wrong here

    Printer is a device to connect, not a connection device.

  • Switch

    Why this is correct

    Switch connects wired devices in a LAN.

  • Router

    Why it's wrong here

    Router connects networks, not usually direct to desktop.

Quick reference

Access Control Model Comparison

ModelAcronymWho Controls Access?Best For
Discretionary Access ControlDACResource ownerSmall teams, file shares
Mandatory Access ControlMACSystem / security labelsClassified govt / military
Role-Based Access ControlRBACAdministrator (via roles)Enterprise environments
Attribute-Based Access ControlABACPolicy engine (user + resource attributes)Fine-grained, dynamic policies
Rule-Based Access ControlRuBACSystem rules / ACLsFirewall rules, network ACLs

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Same concept, more angles

2 more ways 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. A small office has five desktop computers that need to be connected to share files and a printer. Which network device should be used to create a local area network?

easy
  • A.Hub
  • B.Switch
  • C.Modem
  • D.Router

Why B: A switch is the correct device because it operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model, using MAC addresses to forward frames only to the specific port where the destination device is connected. This creates a dedicated, collision-free path between any two communicating devices, which is essential for a small office LAN where five computers need to share files and a printer efficiently.

Variation 2. A technician is setting up a small office network. Which device should be used to connect multiple computers and allow them to communicate with each other?

easy
  • A.Router
  • B.Modem
  • C.Switch
  • D.Hub

Why C: A switch operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model and uses MAC addresses to forward frames only to the specific port where the destination device is connected. This allows multiple computers on the same local network to communicate directly with each other without unnecessary traffic, making it the correct device for interconnecting computers in a small office LAN.

Last reviewed: Jun 25, 2026

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