CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71)InfrastructureHard
A network technician configures a workstation with the IP address 192.168.1.50 and a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0. The workstation cannot reach devices outside its local subnet even though it can communicate with other local devices. Which setting is most likely missing or misconfigured?
- ADNS server address
- BDefault gateway
- CSubnet mask
- DMAC address
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Default gateway
The default gateway is the router's IP address that a device uses to send traffic destined for outside its local subnet; without it, local communication works but traffic cannot leave the subnet. DNS issues would prevent name resolution but not all outside communication, the MAC address doesn't affect routing, and the subnet mask is described as functioning correctly since local communication works.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A missing DNS server would break name resolution, not all outbound traffic.
- C. The subnet mask is functioning correctly since local communication is working.
- D. MAC addresses are used for local layer 2 communication, not routing between subnets.
Default Gateway
The IP address of a router that a device uses to send traffic to destinations outside its local subnet.
- Required for inter-subnet/internet communication
- Local traffic works without it
- Usually the router's LAN IP address
Memory trick: Default gateway is the 'exit door' from your local subnet to the world.