While troubleshooting connectivity issues, a junior network administrator is given explicit instructions to test the host's TCP/IP stack first. Which of the following commands should the network administrator run?
Correct Answer: A
The loopback address (127.0.0.1) is used to test a host's local TCP/IP stack, ensuring that the networking components of the operating system are functioning properly.
* This test does not require network connectivity because it only checks if the local machine's TCP/IP stack is operational.
* If the loopback test fails, it indicates a misconfigured TCP/IP stack, corrupt drivers, or an issue with the OS networking components.
* Option B (ping 169.254.1.1) - This is an APIPA (Automatic Private IP Addressing) address, which is assigned when DHCP fails. It does not test the local TCP/IP stack.
* Option C (ping 172.16.1.1) and Option D (ping 192.168.1.1) - These are private network addresses and test connectivity to other devices, not the local TCP/IP stack.
? Reference: CompTIA Network+ (N10-009) Official Study Guide - Section: Troubleshooting Network Connectivity