What information is used to establish an EMTA identity with the CMTS?

The correct answer is based on the requirement for an Enhanced Multimedia Terminal Adapter (EMTA) to communicate effectively with the Cable Modem Termination System (CMTS). The EMTA needs to establish its identity to the CMTS primarily using the Media Access Control (MAC) address, which uniquely identifies the device on the network. This MAC address is crucial for the CMTS to associate network activity, manage traffic, and ensure proper communication with the EMTA.

Alongside the MAC address, personal customer information may be used to verify account details and facilitate service provisioning, ensuring that the correct services are assigned to the correct user. This combination allows the CMTS to authenticate the device and ensure secure and efficient network management.

Other options do not directly address the primary identity establishment mechanism between the EMTA and CMTS. The MD5 checksum and routing protocol relate more to security and data integrity rather than identity establishment. Firmware versions and names pertain to device capabilities and compatibility but are not used for identity verification. Similarly, while the serial number is a unique identifier for inventory and tracking purposes, it does not serve as the primary means for establishing an identity in active network communications.