BeginnerPhone
2 min
Ping vs Traceroute
NetworkingTroubleshooting
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Interview Question
What is the difference between ping and traceroute, and when would you use each?
Key Points to Cover
- Ping tests reachability and latency (ICMP echo)
- Traceroute maps the path/hops (TTL manipulation)
- Use ping for connectivity; traceroute for path issues
Evaluation Rubric
Explains ping purpose34% weight
Explains traceroute mechanics33% weight
Gives correct usage scenarios33% weight
Hints
- 💡Think: reachability vs path diagnostics.
Potential Follow-up Questions
- ❓Why does traceroute use UDP/ICMP/TCP variants?
- ❓What if ICMP is blocked?
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