An enterprise anticipating rapid growth in communications capacity may deploy which types of equipment to manage throughput, connectivity, and device access?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
As organizations scale, their networks must handle more users, devices, and data flows. Multiple classes of equipment help aggregate lines, offload protocol work, and coordinate attached devices. This question tests your awareness of common categories of communications gear that enterprises employ to meet increasing demand.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Requirements include line aggregation, protocol handling, and device coordination.
  • Terms are used in their classical sense from data-communications literature.
  • Modern equivalents (e.g., integrated routers/switches) often subsume several roles.


Concept / Approach:
A front-end processor historically offloads communication tasks (error control, line handling) from a host. A multiplexer (MUX) combines multiple low-rate inputs onto a higher-capacity line via TDM/FDM/statistical methods. A controller supervises connected terminals or lines, coordinating access and simplifying host interfaces. A concentrator aggregates many low-duty-cycle lines so they can share fewer high-capacity circuits efficiently. Because each device class addresses a different facet of scaling, enterprises frequently use all of them (or their modern equivalents) as needs grow.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Identify scaling problems: many endpoints, higher throughput, protocol overheads.Map to solutions: front-end offload, multiplexing, centralized control, and line concentration.Acknowledge overlap: modern multiservice platforms integrate these roles.Conclude that all listed categories may be used.


Verification / Alternative check:
In legacy mainframe and minicomputer environments, front-end processors and controllers were standard; in carrier networks, MUXes and concentrators remain fundamental concepts, now embodied in routers, DSLAMs, and access switches.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Each individual choice solves only part of the problem; no single item fully satisfies diverse scaling needs.
  • All of the above is correct because enterprises may deploy several device types together.


Common Pitfalls:
Treating “multiplexer” and “concentrator” as synonyms; ignoring that “controller” is a distinct supervisory role; assuming front-end processing is obsolete when in fact it persists inside NICs, offload cards, and router line cards.


Final Answer:
All of the above.

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