Question

Difficulty: MediumNetwork Topologies and Types

A network architect is updating documentation for various enterprise network deployment models and topologies. Match each network type or physical topology on the left with its corresponding operational description on the right.

  • Personal Area Network (PAN)Provides short-range communication dedicated to interconnecting peripheral devices centered around an individual user.
  • Point-to-Multipoint (P2MP)Uses a single central directional base station transmitter to distribute wireless signals to multiple separate fixed subscriber locations.
  • Campus Area Network (CAN)Interconnects multiple distinct local area networks across a contiguous group of buildings managed by a single organization.
  • Bus TopologyRelies on a single central physical cable trunk with electrical terminators at both ends to prevent signal reflection.

Answer

Personal Area Network (PAN) matches with short-range peripheral device communication around an individual; Point-to-Multipoint (P2MP) matches with a central base station communicating with multiple fixed client locations; Campus Area Network (CAN) matches with interconnecting LANs across adjacent buildings in a single property; Bus Topology matches with a single shared cable backbone using end terminators.
Each classification aligns directly with standard networking models: PAN serves personal short-range devices; P2MP distributes wireless traffic from one central antenna to multiple clients; CAN connects multiple LANs across adjacent buildings on a shared campus; and Bus topology uses a single trunk cable terminated at both ends.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze geographic scope and network classification definitions.
PAN represents personal short-range connections (e.g., Bluetooth), while CAN represents multi-building connections within a single contiguous campus area.
Geographic network classifications are determined by physical boundaries, device proximity, and administrative domain.
2
Analyze physical and logical topology operational characteristics.
P2MP uses a central transmitter serving multiple remote endpoints, and Bus topology relies on a linear central cable terminating at both ends.
Physical topologies dictate how nodes and cabling are laid out and how signal propagation is handled.
3
Map each item on the left to its matching operational description on the right.
Matching pairings established accurately.
Verifies key architectural boundaries and cable/wireless transmission models.

Key Concept

Network Topologies and Geographic Classifications
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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