Which Device Provides Layer 2 Connectivity for Endpoints and WAPs?
Short answer
D Switch
Question
Key Takeaways
This question tests the OSI layer at which each network device operates, with the common trap being the mention of WAPs, which may mislead candidates toward a WLAN controller; the correct choice is the Layer 2 switch.
The CompTIA Network+ N10-008 question asks which device a network administrator will most likely configure to provide Layer 2 connectivity to endpoints including WAPs. The community overwhelmingly agrees the correct answer is a switch, because switches operate at Layer 2 and forward frames using MAC addresses.
Common mistake: Choosing WLAN controller (A) is the most common mistake because WAPs are mentioned, but a WLAN controller manages wireless access points and operates at a higher level; it does not provide general Layer 2 wired connectivity for various endpoints.
Expert Analysis
Why the Answer Is Correct
A switch is the device that provides Layer 2 connectivity by forwarding Ethernet frames based on MAC addresses. It is the standard device used to connect endpoints like computers and WAPs within a LAN. Comments confirm this, with one noting that "Layer 2 connectivity, regardless of if some of the endpoints are WAPs, can only be a switch."
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
A WLAN controller (A) manages wireless access points and is often a Layer 3 device, not a direct Layer 2 connectivity provider for all endpoints. A cable modem (B) operates at Layer 1/Layer 2 but is used to connect to the ISP's network, not to interconnect LAN endpoints. A load balancer (C) distributes traffic across servers and works at Layer 4 or Layer 7. A hub (E) is a Layer 1 device that repeats signals, not forwarding based on MAC addresses, so it is not a correct Layer 2 device.
Community Comment Notes
The community is unanimous with 100% votes for D. One commenter explicitly pointed out that a "WLAN Controller is a layer 3 device," reinforcing why option A is a distractor. Another useful observation is that the question's wording is intentionally specific about Layer 2, guiding candidates to pick a switch rather than any device that merely connects WAPs.
Official Reference
https://www.comptia.org/certifications/network
This link opens the official vendor documentation in a new tab.
Exam Strategy
When a question states "Layer 2 connectivity," immediately think of switches and MAC addresses. Always isolate the OSI layer mentioned in the question and match it to the device that operates at that layer, ignoring irrelevant terms like WAPs.
Community Votes
100% of anonymous learners picked answer D. Votes are pick records left by other test-takers — they are not the verified answer.
Discussion 6 contributions
Compiled from public community threads and reader submissions, lightly edited for clarity. Handles and vote tallies are shown as recorded, and comments reflect the views of individual contributors.
From public community threads 6
-
Babatundeio 👍 7The question says layer 2, which should be a switch, D
-
Pisces225 👍 6From the choices given, Layer 2 connectivity, regardless of if some of the endpoints are WAPs, can only be a switch.
-
subaie503 👍 5 Answered DD. Switch The network administrator will most likely configure a switch to provide Layer 2 connectivity to various endpoints, including several Wireless Access Points (WAPs). A switch operates at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model and is used to connect devices within a LAN, facilitating communication by forwarding data based on MAC addresses. It allows multiple devices, like computers, servers, and WAPs, to communicate with each other within the same network segment efficiently.
-
Sarmad_Mansour 👍 2It is so confusing how sometimes the given answer is not correct :(
-
Calebdames 👍 2 Answered DLayer D switch. A Wlan Controller is a layer 3 devices
Show 1 more comment
-
bdemps98 👍 1 Answered DD. Layer 2 Switch
Reader comments & corrections
No reader corrections yet — spotted an error or have a note? Share it below.