Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Practice Exam

What is the IETF open-source VPN tunneling protocol that combines features from L2F and PPTP?

1. Layer 2 Forwarding

2. Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol

3. Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol

4. IPsec

The correct answer is: Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol

The correct answer is Layer 2 Tunneling Protocol (L2TP). This protocol was developed to provide a secure and efficient method for tunneling data across a network, utilizing features from both Layer 2 Forwarding (L2F) and Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP). L2TP allows users to create secure connections over the internet through a method that encapsulates data packets and provides support for a variety of VPN configurations. L2TP does not encrypt data by itself; it is usually paired with IPsec for encryption, ensuring that data traveling over the tunnel is secure. This combination allows for better security and broader functionality in VPN implementations, making L2TP a versatile choice for network administrators looking to establish private connections over public networks. The fact that L2TP merges features from both L2F and PPTP makes it a unique solution in the realm of VPN tunneling protocols, as it leverages their strengths while aiming to provide better connectivity and error correction features. Understanding its role and capabilities is crucial for anyone focusing on networking and VPNs, especially in the context of the CCNA exam.