Question

You are configuring a switch and need to ensure that only authorized devices can connect to it and access the network through this switch. Which is the BEST choice to meet this goal?

Answer 1

To ensure only authorized devices can connect to a switch, implement Port Security to limit access to specified MAC addresses. Steps include accessing the switch interface, enabling Port Security, and specifying allowed MAC addresses. Also, consider 802.1X authentication for added security.

Step-by-step explanation:

If you need to ensure that only authorized devices can connect to a switch and access the network, the best choice is to implement Port Security on your network switch. Port security is a feature found on switches that allows you to configure individual switch ports to only allow connections from specific MAC addresses. This prevents unauthorized devices from being able to connect to the network through the switch.

To set up port security, you can follow these general steps:

1. Access the switch's configuration interface.
2. Choose the specific port you wish to secure.
3. Enable port security on that port.
4. Specify the authorized MAC addresses that are allowed to connect.
5. Set the action the switch should take if an unauthorized device attempts to connect (e.g., shut down the port).

It's important to note that these steps might vary slightly depending on the make and model of your switch. Always consult the device's manual for precise instructions. In addition to port security, you could also consider implementing other network access control methods such as 802.1X authentication for a more robust security stance.