A company's graphic designer reports that her workstation is unable to match the network performance of her colleagues' computers, affecting her ability to upload large design files. All workstations, including hers, are connected to the same gigabit network. The network hardware appears to be functioning correctly for other users. What step should be taken FIRST to address the problem?
Check the network configuration on the workstation to ensure it's set to automatically negotiate the connection speed and duplex mode.
Replace the network cable connecting the workstation to the network, assuming it may be faulty.
Reposition the wireless access point closer to the user's workstation to improve signal strength.
Update the network driver on the affected workstation without checking current configuration or status.
Checking the workstation's network configuration should be the first step to address this specific problem, as it does not affect other users. Incorrect settings, such as a manually set and suboptimal duplex mode or speed, can lead to poor performance. While updating the driver may solve some issues, it is best tackled after verifying the settings are correct, especially if there are no signs that the driver is malfunctioning. Replacing the network cable might be considered if there were physical damage or if it was an older standard not supporting gigabit speeds, but this is less likely the problem if only one workstation is affected and there's no evidence of damage. Repositioning the access point would address a wireless connectivity issue, which does not apply here since the workstation is connected via a wired connection.
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What does it mean to automatically negotiate the connection speed and duplex mode?
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