CREST Practitioner Security Analyst (CPSA) Practice

Which of the following options is NOT a characteristic of Ethernet technology?

1. Supports wireless connections

2. Utilizes a CSMA/CD protocol

3. Can connect multiple devices in a LAN

4. Handles data packets in a structured manner

The correct answer is: Supports wireless connections

The assertion that Ethernet technology does not support wireless connections is accurate. Ethernet is fundamentally a wired networking technology, typically utilizing twisted pair or fiber optic cables to connect devices within a local area network (LAN). This characteristic is essential to understand because traditional Ethernet is designed for reliable, high-speed data transfer in wired environments. The other options highlight fundamental aspects of Ethernet. Utilizing CSMA/CD (Carrier Sense Multiple Access with Collision Detection) is crucial for managing data traffic and ensuring efficient use of the network, especially in environments where multiple devices are transmitting data simultaneously. This protocol helps to minimize data collisions, which can degrade network performance. Additionally, Ethernet is inherently designed to connect multiple devices within a LAN, allowing for a network environment where computers, printers, and other devices can communicate effectively. The capability to handle data packets in a structured manner is also a key feature of Ethernet technology, as it employs frames for packet delivery and ensures that data integrity is maintained throughout the transmission process. Understanding these characteristics delineates the scope and limitations of Ethernet technology compared to other networking methods, particularly wireless technologies.