CompTIA Network+ Practice Test

Which of the following best describes an Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF)?

1. A centralized management hub for network configurations

2. A direct connection point for WAN links

3. An extension of the MDF that connects users to the network

4. A backup power supply source for network devices

The correct answer is: An extension of the MDF that connects users to the network

An Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) serves as a critical component in network infrastructure, acting as an extension of the Main Distribution Frame (MDF). The IDF connects end-user devices and workstations within a specific area of a building to the broader network, facilitating efficient communication and reducing cable runs from the MDF. By distributing network connections to various parts of a facility, the IDF helps to manage and organize network cabling and ensure that user connections are effectively routed to the primary network infrastructure. In contrast, a centralized management hub for network configurations typically involves network management software or systems rather than a physical frame. Offering a direct connection point for Wide Area Network (WAN) links pertains more to devices that connect to broader external networks rather than local distribution frames. Similarly, while backup power sources are important for maintaining network device uptime, they do not describe the function or role of an IDF, which primarily focuses on the distribution of network connections within specific geographic areas.