CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

Which frame size exceeds the standard maximum payload for Ethernet frames?

1. Standard frames

2. Mini frames

3. Jumbo frames

4. Maxi frames

The correct answer is: Jumbo frames

Jumbo frames exceed the standard maximum payload size for Ethernet frames. The standard maximum size for Ethernet frames is 1500 bytes of payload, which refers to the data portion of the frame. Jumbo frames, on the other hand, can accommodate payload sizes significantly larger than this standard, typically ranging from 9000 bytes up to 9216 bytes depending on the network configuration and equipment used. Using larger frames like jumbo frames can lead to improved efficiency and reduced CPU load on network devices during high-throughput situations, as they can carry more data in a single transmission. This can be especially beneficial in environments that handle large amounts of data, such as data centers or applications involving large file transfers. The other types of frames mentioned refer to standard configurations: standard frames are those that adhere to the typical Ethernet limit of 1500 bytes, mini frames are smaller than the standard, often used for specific applications, and maxi frames would not be applicable as a recognized standard in Ethernet networking terminology.