PK0-005 Practice Question: Basics of IT Infrastructure and IT Project Management
A project to upgrade network switches. Which TWO factors should the project manager consider when selecting switches? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
The PK0-005 exam often tests the distinction between technical requirements and non-technical attributes, so the trap here is that candidates may mistake warranty period or brand name as critical selection factors, when in reality they are secondary to functional specifications like PoE support and port count.
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
✓
PoE support
Option B (PoE support) is correct because Power over Ethernet determines whether the switch can deliver electrical power alongside data over Ethernet cabling to devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and cameras, which is a critical technical requirement when selecting switches for a network upgrade. Option C (Number of ports) is correct because port count directly dictates how many devices the switch can connect, and it must match the current and planned device density of the network to avoid running out of capacity or overspending on unused ports. The unmarked options do not belong: switch color (A) is purely cosmetic and has no bearing on network functionality, warranty period (D) is a commercial consideration rather than a core technical selection factor, and brand name (E) is a subjective preference that does not by itself determine whether the switch meets the project's requirements.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Switch color
Why it's wrong here
Switch colour has no bearing on network function or the upgrade's requirements. It is tempting only where aesthetic or rack-labelling conventions exist, which is not a technical selection factor. Port density, speed and PoE budget determine whether the switch meets the project's needs.
- ✓
PoE support
Why this is correct
Power over Ethernet lets the switches supply power to access points, IP cameras and VoIP handsets over the same copper cabling. Where such devices are deployed, omitting PoE support would require separate power injectors or additional electrical work.
- ✓
Number of ports
Why this is correct
Port count determines how many devices can connect without additional switches, directly affecting cost, rack space and future expansion headroom. Undersizing port density forces cascading or replacement later, so it must be matched to current and forecast endpoint numbers.
- ✗
Warranty period
Why it's wrong here
Warranty period is a commercial consideration, not a factor determining whether the switch meets the upgrade's technical requirements. It is tempting because warranty reduces lifecycle cost and risk, and would matter when comparing otherwise equivalent vendors. Port count, throughput and PoE capability are the deciding factors.
- ✗
Brand name
Why it's wrong here
Brand name does not determine whether a switch meets the upgrade's technical requirements. It is tempting because a reputable vendor can imply reliability and support, and brand would matter where standardisation or existing support contracts apply. Port count, throughput and PoE capability are the relevant selection factors.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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