Diagnosing Intermittent Connectivity via Port Flapping
A technician gets several reports from users about devices experiencing intermittent connectivity. Some users can connect their devices to the network share but then the devices get disconnected. All users reporting this issue are in the same building. The technician checks with users in a different building, and they are not having any issues. Which of the following would most likely cause the issue?
Community Insight
The scenario tests the ability to distinguish between server-wide outages and local physical layer faults by analyzing user distribution across buildings.
This question addresses intermittent network connectivity issues confined to a specific location, identifying port flapping as the primary cause when other users in different locations are unaffected.
Learners often incorrectly select 'Offline server' or 'Authentication failures', failing to realize that these issues would affect all users globally, not just those in one building.
Community Discussion (1 comments)
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Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
Port flapping occurs when a network interface repeatedly transitions between up and down states, often due to loose cabling, faulty hardware, or duplex mismatches. This behavior causes intermittent connectivity where devices can briefly connect but then drop, which perfectly matches the symptom described for users in the same building.Why the Other Options Are Wrong
An offline server (A) or authentication failure (C) would impact all users attempting to access those resources, regardless of their physical location, contradicting the fact that users in another building have no issues. High latency (B) would result in slow performance rather than disconnections.Community Comment Notes
Community consensus strongly supports port flapping, with users noting that the pattern of connecting and disconnecting specifically within one building points to a local link instability issue.Exam Strategy
When troubleshooting network issues, always compare affected users with unaffected ones to isolate the scope; if the problem is localized, suspect physical layer components like cables or switch ports rather than central infrastructure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why isn't it an offline server?
An offline server would prevent all users from connecting, not just those in one building. Since users in another building are fine, the server is online.
What causes port flapping?
Port flapping is typically caused by faulty cables, damaged connectors, duplex mismatches, or unstable power to network equipment.
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