CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)Network ImplementationEasy
A technician is troubleshooting a total loss of internet connectivity at a small office. After testing, the ISP confirms that the circuit is functioning correctly up to the point where their cabling terminates and the customer's equipment begins. Which term describes this boundary?
- ADemarcation point
- BPatch panel
- CCross-connect
- DIntermediate distribution frame (IDF)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Demarcation point
The demarcation point (demarc) is the physical boundary where the ISP's responsibility ends and the customer's internal wiring and equipment begin. Anything beyond that point is the customer's responsibility to troubleshoot.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. A patch panel organizes cable terminations inside a building, unrelated to ISP handoff.
- C. A cross-connect links cabling segments but isn't a responsibility boundary.
- D. An IDF is a secondary wiring closet within a building, not an ISP boundary.
Demarcation Point (Demarc)
The point where a telecommunications provider's network ends and the customer's internal wiring begins, marking a change in ownership and troubleshooting responsibility.
- Often located in a utility closet or basement
- May include a smartjack (NIU) for testing
- Customer is responsible for cabling beyond this point
Memory trick: Demarc = the doorway between 'their' network and 'yours'.