20. Users report performance issues on the network. A network administrator notices broadcast storms occurring. Which of the following protocols should the administrator configure to mitigate this issue?
Answer: A
Spanning Tree should be configured to mitigate broadcast storms.
Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) is designed to prevent broadcast storms by eliminating loops in network topologies. By configuring STP, the network administrator can ensure that only one active path exists between any two network devices, effectively controlling broadcast traffic.
A) Spanning Tree
This option is correct because Spanning Tree Protocol actively prevents loops that can lead to broadcast storms in a network. By blocking redundant paths and allowing only one active path, STP significantly reduces unnecessary broadcast traffic, thereby improving network performance.
B) Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing
This option is incorrect as Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) is primarily used for routing decisions within an autonomous system. It does not address the issue of broadcast storms or prevent network loops, making it ineffective in this context.
C) Cisco Discovery
This option is incorrect because Cisco Discovery Protocol (CDP) is used for network device discovery and management. While it aids in identifying devices on the network, it does not mitigate broadcast storms or control broadcast traffic, rendering it unsuitable for this scenario.
D) Link Layer Discovery
This option is incorrect since Link Layer Discovery Protocol (LLDP) serves a similar purpose as CDP, focusing on device discovery at the link layer. Like CDP, LLDP does not provide mechanisms to prevent broadcast storms or manage broadcast traffic, thus failing to address the issue.
E) Border Gateway
This option is incorrect because Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) is used for routing between different autonomous systems on the internet. It does not target local network issues such as broadcast storms, making it irrelevant for mitigating this specific problem.
Conclusion
In summary, Spanning Tree Protocol is the appropriate choice for mitigating broadcast storms due to its ability to prevent network loops. Other options, including routing and discovery protocols, do not address the fundamental issue of broadcast storm prevention, thus failing to provide a solution in this context.