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FC0-U71 Practice Question: Which TWO are characteristics of a network…
Which TWO are characteristics of a network switch? (Select exactly two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often confuse a switch's ability to perform some Layer 3 functions (like in a multilayer switch) with the standard definition of a switch, leading them to incorrectly select Layer 3 options when the question explicitly asks for characteristics of a 'network switch' in the context of the CompTIA FC0-U61 exam.
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
✓
Operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model
A network switch operates at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model, where it uses MAC addresses to make forwarding decisions. Unlike hubs, switches learn and store MAC addresses in a Content Addressable Memory (CAM) table, allowing them to forward frames only to the specific port associated with the destination MAC address, which reduces collision domains and improves network efficiency.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Operates at Layer 2 of the OSI model
Why this is correct
Switches work at the Data Link layer.
- ✓
Forwards data based on MAC addresses
Why this is correct
Switches use MAC addresses to forward frames within a network.
- ✗
Operates at Layer 3
Why it's wrong here
Layer 3 operation is typical of routers.
- ✗
Connects different networks
Why it's wrong here
Switches connect devices within the same network; routers connect different networks.
- ✗
Forwards data based on IP addresses
Why it's wrong here
IP forwarding is done by routers, not switches.
Quick reference
Access Control Model Comparison
| Model | Acronym | Who Controls Access? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discretionary Access Control | DAC | Resource owner | Small teams, file shares |
| Mandatory Access Control | MAC | System / security labels | Classified govt / military |
| Role-Based Access Control | RBAC | Administrator (via roles) | Enterprise environments |
| Attribute-Based Access Control | ABAC | Policy engine (user + resource attributes) | Fine-grained, dynamic policies |
| Rule-Based Access Control | RuBAC | System rules / ACLs | Firewall rules, network ACLs |
Go deeper
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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.