CompTIA Cloud+ Practice Test

What modification could be made to a server utilizing 100 percent of its network bandwidth?

1. Add memory to the system

2. Install a second network adapter

3. Update the network adapter's firmware

4. Install a second processor

The correct answer is: Install a second network adapter

Utilizing 100 percent of a server's network bandwidth indicates that the server is experiencing a bottleneck in its network performance. Adding a second network adapter would effectively increase the available bandwidth for incoming and outgoing network traffic. This dual adapter setup could be configured for load balancing, allowing traffic to be distributed across two physical connections, which can significantly enhance throughput and improve overall network performance. When a server maxes out its bandwidth, it cannot handle additional data packets efficiently, which may lead to latency, packet loss, or other performance issues. By installing a second network adapter, you can alleviate this congestion, allowing for better handling of network requests and more efficient use of the available network resources. In contrast, adding memory or a second processor does not directly address the network bandwidth limitations. Updating the network adapter's firmware might improve the reliability or efficiency of the existing adapter but would not increase the bandwidth capability. Therefore, installing a second network adapter is the most effective modification to resolve the issue of a server utilizing 100 percent of its network bandwidth.