CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)Network TroubleshootingEasy
A network technician is investigating reports of intermittent network connectivity and slow speeds for users connected to a specific wireless access point. The access point is located near a microwave oven in a break room. What is the MOST likely cause of these issues?
- AInsufficient power over Ethernet (PoE) budget.
- BIncorrect VLAN tagging on the access point's port.
- CElectromagnetic Interference (EMI) from the microwave oven.
- DOutdated firmware on the wireless access point.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) from the microwave oven.
Microwave ovens operate in the 2.4 GHz frequency range, which directly interferes with common Wi-Fi bands. This interference can cause significant signal degradation, leading to intermittent connectivity and slow speeds.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Insufficient PoE budget would likely cause the access point to not power on or reboot, not intermittent connectivity.
- B. Incorrect VLAN tagging would typically prevent any connectivity, not cause intermittent issues or slow speeds.
- D. Outdated firmware can cause various issues, but EMI is a more direct and common cause when located near a strong interference source like a microwave.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)
Disruption that affects an electrical circuit due to electromagnetic induction or electromagnetic radiation emitted from an external source.
- Can be caused by motors, fluorescent lights, microwave ovens, and other electrical devices.
- Degrades signal quality on copper cables and wireless links.
- Mitigated by shielding, proper grounding, and physical separation.
Memory trick: Radio waves clash, Wi-Fi crashes.