A customer is traveling to a branch office, and the network administrator provides her with a static IP address for her laptop
Which should the customer do to use the static IP address?
a. Run the command “ipconfig configure static”
b. Assign the static IP in network adapter settings
c. Switch the button from dynamic to static on her laptop
d. Disconnect from WiFi and use an Ethernet cable
e. Type the IP address into the browser
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is:
b. Assign the static IP in network adapter settings
Explanation:
When a static IP address is provided, it must be manually configured in the network settings of the laptop. Here’s how this works and why it’s important:
Dynamic vs. Static IP Addresses
By default, most devices use Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) to automatically receive an IP address from a router or network server. However, in some cases (e.g., for security, consistency, or specific network configurations), a static IP is required. A static IP is a manually assigned address that remains constant for the device.
How to Configure the Static IP
- Access Network Settings:
- Go to the Control Panel or Settings in the operating system.
- Navigate to the “Network and Sharing Center” (Windows) or “Network Preferences” (macOS).
- Select the active network adapter (e.g., Ethernet or WiFi).
- Assign the Static IP:
- In the network adapter settings, locate the “Internet Protocol Version 4 (TCP/IPv4)” properties.
- Choose the option to “Use the following IP address.”
- Enter the provided static IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway. Additionally, DNS server addresses may need to be entered.
- Save and Test:
- Save the settings and test the connection by pinging a known address or using the internet.
Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- a. “ipconfig configure static”: The
ipconfigcommand cannot configure static IPs; it is used for viewing or renewing IP settings. - c. Switch the button from dynamic to static: Laptops do not have a physical or software toggle for this functionality.
- d. Disconnect from WiFi and use an Ethernet cable: The method of connection does not affect the static IP assignment process.
- e. Type the IP address into the browser: This action has no relevance to network configuration.
Configuring the IP in the network adapter ensures the device operates correctly within the branch office’s network.