What is the second step in troubleshooting a network problem?

The second step in troubleshooting a network problem is to identify the affected area. This step follows the initial establishment of symptoms, which helps in clarifying what issues are being observed. By pinpointing the affected area, technicians can narrow down the potential sources of the problem and focus their efforts on specific network segments or devices.

Identifying the affected area allows for more efficient troubleshooting, as it helps to determine whether the issue is localized to a single device, a group of devices, or a larger segment of the network. This specificity can guide subsequent actions, such as testing connectivity or investigating configurations, making the troubleshooting process more systematic and less time-consuming. Understanding which areas are impacted is crucial for developing an effective resolution strategy.