20 important questions for L2 Network Engineers

1. What is the purpose of the Data Link layer in the OSI model, and how does it differ from the Physical layer?

   • Answer: The Data Link layer is responsible for framing and addressing data for reliable communication within a local network. It differs from the Physical layer by providing a means to access the physical medium and addressing devices on the network.

2. Explain the role of MAC addresses in networking and how they are assigned.

   • Answer: MAC addresses uniquely identify network interface cards (NICs) and are assigned by the manufacturer. They are crucial for addressing and delivering frames within a local network.

3. What is Ethernet, and how does it function in a local area network (LAN) environment?

   • Answer: Ethernet is a widely used LAN technology. It employs a protocol for data link layer communication, using frames to transmit data between devices on the same network.

4. Describe the difference between half-duplex and full-duplex communication in networking.

   • Answer: Half-duplex allows communication in only one direction at a time, while full-duplex enables simultaneous two-way communication, improving efficiency.

5. How do switches operate at the Data Link layer, and what advantages do they offer over hubs?

   • Answer: Switches operate by forwarding frames based on MAC addresses, providing efficient communication. Unlike hubs, switches create separate collision domains, enhancing network performance.

6. What is spanning tree protocol (STP), and why is it crucial for preventing network loops?

   • Answer: STP is a protocol preventing loops in Ethernet networks. It identifies and blocks redundant paths, ensuring a loop-free topology.

7. Explain the concept of Virtual LANs (VLANs) and how they enhance network segmentation.

   • Answer: VLANs divide a network into logically segmented broadcast domains. They enhance network segmentation, improving security and efficiency.

8. Describe the purpose of Address Resolution Protocol (ARP) at the Data Link layer.

   • Answer: ARP resolves IP addresses to MAC addresses, allowing devices to communicate within the same network.

9. What is the significance of jumbo frames in network communication?

   • Answer: Jumbo frames are larger than standard frames, reducing overhead and increasing efficiency in data transmission.

10. How does Link Aggregation (LACP) contribute to increased bandwidth and redundancy?

• Answer: LACP combines multiple physical links into a single logical link, increasing bandwidth and providing redundancy.

11. Explain the role of a bridge in networking and how it differs from a switch.

    • Answer: A bridge operates at the Data Link layer, connecting and filtering traffic between separate network segments. While a switch performs similar functions, it operates on a larger scale and typically connects more devices.

12. Describe the operation of Layer 2 tunneling protocols, such as Point-to-Point Protocol over Ethernet (PPPoE).

    • Answer: PPPoE is used to create a point-to-point connection over an Ethernet network, often used for broadband connections. It encapsulates PPP frames within Ethernet frames for secure communication.

13. What is the purpose of Frame Relay, and how does it operate at the Data Link layer?

    • Answer: Frame Relay is a packet-switching technology used for wide-area networking. It operates at the Data Link layer, providing a connection-oriented service for efficient data transfer.

14. How do you troubleshoot issues related to a Layer 2 switch in a network?

    • Answer: Troubleshooting Layer 2 switch issues involves checking cable connections, verifying VLAN configurations, examining MAC address tables, and using diagnostic commands like "show" commands on the switch.

15. Explain the concept of broadcast storms and how they can impact network performance.

    • Answer: A broadcast storm occurs when a network experiences an unusually high number of broadcast messages, overwhelming the network and degrading performance. It can lead to network congestion and slower response times.

16. What is the function of a network interface card (NIC) in a computer system?

    • Answer: A NIC allows a computer to connect to a network by providing the necessary hardware interface. It manages the transmission and reception of data between the computer and the network.

17. Describe the differences between unicast, multicast, and broadcast communication.

    • Answer: Unicast involves one-to-one communication, multicast involves one-to-many, and broadcast involves one-to-all. Unicast is specific to a single device, multicast targets a specific group, and broadcast sends data to all devices in the network.

18. How do you configure and manage port security on a switch to enhance network security?

    • Answer: Port security involves configuring switches to limit the number of MAC addresses allowed on a port, preventing unauthorized devices from connecting to the network.

19. Explain the concept of VLAN trunking and its importance in interconnecting switches.

    • Answer: VLAN trunking involves carrying multiple VLANs over a single network link, allowing switches to communicate and share VLAN information. It is crucial for interconnecting switches in a network.

20. What is the purpose of MAC address table aging, and how does it impact network efficiency?

    • Answer: MAC address table aging removes inactive MAC addresses from the table after a certain period, improving efficiency by keeping the table up-to-date and relevant.