Which Device to Choose for Extending the Network on a Budget?

A new building needs to be joined to an existing network, but management has decided that running fiber is too expensive.

Since the buildings are about 1000ft (305m) apart, the IT department has been asked to propose alternatives.

Which of the following is the BEST device to add to each building to facilitate the extension of the network while meeting budgetary demands?

A.

Switch

B.

Router

C.

Media converter

D.

PRP wireless.

D.

The BEST device to extend a network between two buildings that are 1000ft apart, while meeting budgetary demands, is a Media Converter.

A Media Converter is a networking device that connects two different types of media, such as copper and fiber optic cabling, to extend a network. It is an economical solution that allows for the conversion of electrical signals from copper to optical signals for fiber optic transmission. Media converters are commonly used for extending networks beyond the maximum distance limitations of copper cabling.

In this scenario, since the management has deemed running fiber optic cables between the buildings to be too expensive, a media converter can be used to convert the electrical signals from copper cabling to optical signals, allowing for the network to be extended over the distance between the two buildings. The media converter will be installed on each end of the copper cabling to convert the electrical signals to optical signals and then convert them back to electrical signals at the other end of the link, ensuring seamless communication between the two buildings.

A switch is a networking device that connects multiple devices on a network and forwards data between them. A switch would not be the best solution in this scenario, as it does not provide the ability to extend a network beyond the maximum distance limitations of copper cabling.

A router is a networking device that connects multiple networks and forwards data between them. While a router can be used to connect two different networks, it would not be the best solution in this scenario, as it does not provide the ability to extend a network beyond the maximum distance limitations of copper cabling.

PRP wireless is not a commonly used networking device and is not typically used for extending a network over a long distance. Additionally, wireless solutions may be affected by interference, range limitations, and require careful planning and management. Therefore, it would not be the best solution in this scenario.