CompTIA Server+ (SK0-005)Server AdministrationMedium
A server administrator is configuring network interface cards (NICs) on a new Linux server for a high-availability database cluster. The cluster requires redundant network paths and increased bandwidth. Which of the following networking configurations should the administrator implement?
- AAssigning separate IP addresses to each NIC.
- BDisabling one of the NICs to conserve power.
- CConfiguring each NIC with a different subnet mask.
- DImplementing NIC bonding (teaming) with an appropriate mode.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Implementing NIC bonding (teaming) with an appropriate mode.
NIC bonding (also known as teaming or link aggregation) combines multiple network interfaces into a single logical interface to provide redundancy (failover) and/or increased bandwidth, which is ideal for a high-availability cluster requiring both.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Assigning separate IP addresses to each NIC without bonding would treat them as independent interfaces, not providing redundancy or combined bandwidth for a single service.
- B. Disabling a NIC would reduce network redundancy and bandwidth, directly contradicting the requirements for a high-availability cluster.
- C. Configuring different subnet masks on NICs within the same logical network segment would lead to network misconfiguration and connectivity issues.
NIC Bonding (Teaming/Link Aggregation)
NIC bonding is a technique that combines multiple network interface cards into a single logical interface to provide redundancy, load balancing, and increased throughput.
- Enhances network reliability through failover.
- Increases available bandwidth for network traffic.
- Requires compatible network switches and proper mode configuration (e.g., active-backup, LACP).
Memory trick: Bonding Links Many NICs for Resilient Data.