According to the network troubleshooting methodology, the first step a network administrator should take is to identify the problem. This involves gathering information from the users, the network devices, and the symptoms of the issue. Identifying the problem helps to narrow down the scope and the possible causes of the network issue. Reference 1: Network troubleshooting methodology | CompTIA Network+ N10-008 ... 2: Chapter 21. A Network Troubleshooting Methodology - CompTIA Network+ ... 3: Network Troubleshooting Methodology - N10-008 CompTIA Network+ : 5.1