A user reports that their desktop is unable to reach any networked systems or the internet. You observe no signs of activity where the Ethernet cable connects to the computer. To best address this user's issue, what is the FIRST action you should take?
Inspect the physical Ethernet cable and its connections for any visible damage or to confirm if it's securely connected to the appropriate port on both the computer and the network switch.
Reverse the Ethernet cable as it was likely installed backwards and the T568A side is plugged into the T568B port.
Move the device to be closer to the wireless access point.
Procure a new computer's Ethernet interface as a direct replacement.
When there are no signs of activity at the Ethernet port, the PRIMARY and SIMPLEST troubleshooting step is to check the physical connections. Inactive port LEDs typically indicate a physical problem, such as a disconnected or faulty cable or an improperly seated connection, which is what you can quickly and visibly inspect. Should this fail to resolve the issue, one might then consider potential hardware failures, settings misconfigurations, or distance from the wireless signal source if applicable, but further steps would not address the immediate problem displayed by the unlit activity LEDs.
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What is T568A and T568B, and how do they differ?
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How do I know if my Ethernet cable is damaged?
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What are the signs of a faulty Ethernet connection?