Cisco CCNA (200-301)Network FundamentalsEasy
A technician is connecting two switches directly using a copper Ethernet cable. Modern Gigabit switches typically support auto-MDIX. What does this feature allow?
- AThe switch to detect the cable type and internally swap transmit/receive pairs as needed
- BThe switch to automatically assign IP addresses to connected devices
- CThe switch to automatically negotiate duplex mode only, not cable type
- DThe switch to convert copper signals to fiber optic automatically
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The switch to detect the cable type and internally swap transmit/receive pairs as needed
Auto-MDIX allows a switch port to automatically detect whether a straight-through or crossover cable is connected and adjust its internal wiring to communicate correctly, eliminating the need to choose the correct cable type manually.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. IP address assignment is unrelated; that is DHCP's role.
- C. Auto-MDIX is separate from duplex/speed auto-negotiation.
- D. Media conversion requires a transceiver, not auto-MDIX.
Auto-MDIX
Auto-MDIX (Automatic Medium-Dependent Interface Crossover) lets a switch port automatically detect and correct for cable type (straight-through vs crossover).
- Eliminates need to know if a crossover cable is required
- Standard on most modern Gigabit Ethernet switches
- Works alongside auto-negotiation for speed/duplex
Memory trick: Auto-MDIX: the switch flips the wires so you don't have to.