When using Federated Search, what type of searches can a user perform?

In the context of Federated Search in Splunk, a user can perform both ad-hoc and scheduled searches. Federated Search allows users to query multiple Splunk instances or data sources seamlessly, providing the flexibility to execute a variety of search types based on their needs.

Ad-hoc searches are spontaneous queries that users generate to find immediate insights or analyze data on the fly. This is particularly useful for situations where unpredicted data analysis is required or when immediate results are necessary. On the other hand, scheduled searches are predefined queries that run at specified times or intervals, allowing users to automate analyses and receive updates periodically. This dual capability of executing both search types expands the functionality of Federated Search, making it a powerful tool for users who need comprehensive access to data across various sources.

The other options imply limitations that do not align with the capabilities of Federated Search. For instance, restricting users only to real-time searches or only specific datasets would significantly hinder the use of Splunk, disregarding the diverse search requirements often encountered in data analysis processes. Here, the choice that encompasses the breadth of search functionality is the most accurate reflection of what users can achieve with Federated Search.