CREST Practitioner Security Analyst (CPSA) Practice

What does the term 'Media Access Control' (MAC) refer to in networking?

1. A technique for bandwidth management

2. A method to distinguish devices on a network

3. A protocol for secure communications

4. A standard for wireless networking

The correct answer is: A method to distinguish devices on a network

The term 'Media Access Control' (MAC) specifically refers to a method of distinguishing devices on a network. MAC addresses are unique identifiers assigned to network interfaces for communications on the physical network segment. Each network interface card (NIC) has a built-in MAC address that is used within the data link layer of the OSI model. This addressing scheme allows devices to recognize one another and manage data traffic effectively, ensuring that data packets reach the intended recipient within a network. In contrast, the other options pertain to different concepts in networking. The first choice suggests bandwidth management techniques, which is a different aspect of network performance related to optimizing and controlling the flow of data – not directly tied to identifying devices. The third option references securely communicating data, which falls under higher-level protocols rather than specifically addressing device identification. Finally, the last option regarding wireless networking refers to standards like IEEE 802.11 which define how wireless devices communicate, but again that is distinct from the MAC function of device identification within any network type, whether wired or wireless. Thus, the core function of 'Media Access Control' is to facilitate unique device identification on a network.