AP® Cybersecurity glossary

Network data port

Also called: data port, wall port

A socket in a wall that is cabled to a switch port; plugging a device into it connects that device to the local area network (LAN).

Appears in the course and exam description (CED): 3.1.B.33.1.B.6

Why it matters in Unit 3

An open data port is a side door into the LAN. An adversary can plug in a laptop, or a wireless access point to create a rogue access point.

Example

An unused data port in a meeting room leads to a switch port, so a laptop plugged into it joins the LAN unless port security or device authentication stops it.

Learn it properly, with a checkpoint Networks: hosts, packets and the devices that move them

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