Multiple choice

Which of the following is an example of a physical layer problem?

  1. incorrect encapsulation

  2. incorrect STP configuration

  3. incorrect ARP mapping

  4. incorrect clock rate

Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Physical layer problems relate to the actual transmission of signals on the network medium. The clock rate (or timing) is a physical layer parameter that ensures synchronized communication between devices, especially on serial WAN links. An incorrect clock rate causes synchronization failures, preventing reliable data transmission. The other options are issues at higher layers: encapsulation is data link layer, STP (Spanning Tree Protocol) is data link layer, and ARP mapping involves both data link and network layers. Physical layer problems also include cable faults, voltage issues, and connector problems.