Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Practice Exam

Which layer 2 WAN protocol is the most scalable transport technology ever developed?

1. Frame Relay

2. ATM

3. PPP

4. Ethernet

The correct answer is: Ethernet

Ethernet is recognized as the most scalable transport technology in the realm of layer 2 WAN protocols due to its widespread adoption and flexibility. One of the key aspects that contribute to its scalability is its ability to support varying bandwidths, ranging from traditional Ethernet speeds of 10 Mbps to modern speeds exceeding 100 Gbps. This allows organizations to easily upgrade their infrastructure as demand increases without needing to completely overhaul their existing systems. Additionally, Ethernet supports a variety of services, such as point-to-point and point-to-multipoint configurations. This versatility enables it to be used effectively in a range of different network topologies and applications, making it suitable for both enterprise and service provider environments. Furthermore, the implementation of technologies like Ethernet over MPLS enhances its scalability and allows for better management of traffic and resources. Ethernet's compatibility with existing IP-based environments, combined with its cost-effectiveness compared to other legacy protocols, solidifies its position as the preferred choice in many modern networking scenarios. Its capability to easily accommodate growth and evolving technological requirements further emphasizes its scalability as a transport technology.