WAN technologies (Frame Relay): By default, a Frame Relay WAN is categorized as what type of Layer 2 physical topology?

Introduction / Context:
Legacy WAN services like Frame Relay shaped many CCNA-era designs. Understanding their logical/physical characteristics is key to choosing routing protocols and neighbor discovery behavior.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Technology: Frame Relay (L2 WAN service with PVCs).
• “Default” behavior as seen by routing protocols.

Concept / Approach:
Frame Relay is a Non-Broadcast Multi-Access (NBMA) network. Multiple nodes share the provider cloud, but the medium does not support broadcast/multicast natively across all neighbors. This affects protocols like OSPF/EIGRP, which may need manual neighbor statements or special network types.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Classic certification texts state “Frame Relay is NBMA,” guiding choices like OSPF point-to-multipoint or static neighbor settings.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Point-to-point: Only if configured as such per PVC; not the default.
• Broadcast multi-access: Contradicts NBMA nature.
• Non-broadcast multipoint: Terminology mix; standard term is NBMA.
• Ring: Not applicable.

Common Pitfalls:
Assuming Ethernet-like broadcast behavior; forgetting to adapt routing protocol settings for NBMA.

Final Answer:
Non-broadcast multi-access