What can cause performance issues on FSMO servers?

The correct answer focuses on the impact of running excessive network services on FSMO (Flexible Single Master Operation) servers. FSMO roles are critical in Active Directory for maintaining the proper functioning of the directory and ensuring consistency across the network. When a server is burdened with too many network services, it can lead to resource contention, strain on CPU and memory, and increased latency in processing requests.

Excessive services can monopolize resources that are essential for the server to efficiently manage its primary roles. For instance, if an FSMO server is also handling unrelated processes or services that consume significant resources, it can slow down its response times and lead to disruptions in directory operations. This scenario can particularly affect critical tasks such as authentication, replication, and role management, which are vital for network stability.

While unauthorized access may compromise security, and insufficient hardware resources can certainly lead to performance issues, these factors do not inherently stem from the operational overload of services. Similarly, while lack of security patches can be a risk to the integrity of the system, it does not directly correlate with performance degradation caused by excessive service demands. Thus, the impact of running too many network services is a direct and clear cause of performance issues on FSMO servers.