3.4.1 - Hardware Failure Issues

CompTIA 3.4.1

Power anomalies such as:

• Surges and spikes can damage devices

• Under-voltage events can cause systems to lock up or reboot

The easiest thing to do is to

• Replace the driver

For a network appliance, use

• Status LEDs to confirm operation and check that things such as plug-in cards and modules are seated correctly

You should also consider

• Overheating as a potential cause of hardware issues

At the Data Link layer, most wired hosts connect to the network via a switch. If you suspect a device such as a switch,

• Analyze the topology of the network

• You should be able to view those users who are suffering from the problem

• Identify which part of the network is affected

• Identify the problem bridging or switching device