Why would a Layer 2 switch need an IP address?
A. to enable the switch to be managed remotely
B. to enable the switch to function as a default gateway
C. to enable the switch to receive frames from attached PCs
D. to enable the switch to send broadcast frames to attached PCs
The Correct Answer And Explanation is:
Correct Answer:
A. To enable the switch to be managed remotely
Explanation:
A Layer 2 switch primarily operates at the Data Link Layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model, meaning it does not require an IP address to perform its main function: forwarding Ethernet frames based on MAC addresses. However, an IP address is necessary for remote management and administrative tasks.
Why Does a Layer 2 Switch Need an IP Address?
- Remote Management:
- Without an IP address, an administrator would have to physically access the switch for configuration and troubleshooting.
- Assigning an IP address allows administrators to manage the switch remotely using protocols like Telnet, SSH, HTTP/HTTPS, or SNMP.
- Virtual LAN (VLAN) Management:
- Managed switches often support VLANs, and each VLAN may require an interface (called an SVI – Switched Virtual Interface) to facilitate communication.
- An IP address can be assigned to the management VLAN (usually VLAN 1) to enable remote configuration.
- Network Monitoring & Troubleshooting:
- Administrators use ping, traceroute, and SNMP monitoring tools to check the status of the switch, which requires an IP address.
- Integration with Higher Layers:
- Some Layer 2 switches may support Layer 3 features (like inter-VLAN routing), requiring an IP for enhanced functionalities.
Why the Other Answers Are Incorrect?
- B. To enable the switch to function as a default gateway → Incorrect because a Layer 2 switch does not perform routing; this is a Layer 3 function.
- C. To enable the switch to receive frames from attached PCs → Incorrect because a switch forwards frames based on MAC addresses, not IP addresses.
- D. To enable the switch to send broadcast frames to attached PCs → Incorrect because switches send broadcast frames by default using MAC addresses.
Thus, the correct answer is A: “to enable the switch to be managed remotely.”
