Cisco 350-401 Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 4 Q61-80

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Question 61:

Which protocol is used in enterprise networks to provide secure communication between OSPFv3 neighbors in IPv6 networks?

A) IPsec
B) MD5 authentication
C) SSL
D) GRE

Answer:

A) IPsec

Explanation:

Open Shortest Path First version 3 (OSPFv3) is the IPv6-specific version of the OSPF routing protocol. Unlike OSPFv2, which supports built-in authentication mechanisms such as MD5, OSPFv3 does not include native authentication. Instead, it relies on the IPv6 protocol itself to provide security through IPsec (Internet Protocol Security). IPsec provides authentication, integrity, and confidentiality for routing protocol messages exchanged between OSPFv3 neighbors.

IPsec operates by creating Security Associations (SAs) between peers, typically using IKEv2 for key management. Once the SAs are established, OSPFv3 messages are encapsulated and protected using encryption and authentication mechanisms. This ensures that routing updates cannot be tampered with, spoofed, or intercepted by unauthorized entities. The use of IPsec for OSPFv3 is particularly critical in enterprise environments where routers may exchange routing information over untrusted or public networks.

IPsec can operate in transport mode or tunnel mode. Transport mode encrypts only the payload of the IP packet, while tunnel mode encapsulates the entire original packet. In most enterprise OSPFv3 deployments, transport mode is used to minimize overhead while ensuring secure routing communication. Administrators can choose between pre-shared keys or digital certificates for authentication, depending on the security requirements and network scale.

Other options listed are not suitable for OSPFv3 security. MD5 authentication was used in OSPFv2 but is not natively supported in OSPFv3. SSL is designed primarily for application-layer encryption (e.g., HTTPS) and does not protect routing protocol messages. GRE provides tunneling capabilities but does not offer authentication or encryption by itself.

The separation of security from protocol operation in OSPFv3 allows for more flexible security deployments, enabling enterprises to integrate additional security measures such as VPNs, firewalls, or centralized policy enforcement without modifying the routing protocol itself. IPsec also integrates with monitoring and network assurance tools to detect anomalies or unauthorized access attempts, providing both proactive and reactive security mechanisms.

In large-scale networks, IPsec-secured OSPFv3 enables enterprises to maintain consistent routing information across multiple sites while protecting the network control plane. This ensures uninterrupted connectivity and reduces the risk of routing attacks such as route injection or spoofing, which can lead to traffic blackholing or network outages.

In summary, IPsec provides the required authentication, integrity, and encryption for OSPFv3 routing messages in IPv6 networks, making it the correct solution for secure enterprise deployments. Therefore, option A is correct.

Question 62:

Which Cisco technology allows enterprises to extend Layer 2 networks across geographically dispersed sites while supporting multi-tenant isolation?

A) MPLS
B) VXLAN
C) GRE
D) Frame Relay

Answer:

B) VXLAN

Explanation:

Virtual Extensible LAN (VXLAN) is a network virtualization technology designed to extend Layer 2 networks over Layer 3 infrastructure, providing scalability, multi-tenancy, and flexibility in enterprise and data center environments. VXLAN addresses the limitations of VLANs, such as the 4,096 VLAN ID limit, by using a 24-bit VXLAN Network Identifier (VNI) capable of supporting up to 16 million unique logical networks.

VXLAN encapsulates Layer 2 Ethernet frames into UDP-encapsulated Layer 3 IP packets, allowing Ethernet segments to span multiple physical locations. VXLAN Tunnel Endpoints (VTEPs) perform encapsulation and decapsulation, mapping VNIs to local broadcast domains. This overlay architecture decouples the logical network from the underlying physical infrastructure, enabling seamless multi-tenant isolation and flexible deployment of virtual networks across geographically dispersed sites.

Integration with BGP EVPN provides a control plane for distributing MAC address reachability information across VTEPs, reducing the reliance on flooding for unknown unicast, broadcast, and multicast (BUM) traffic. This reduces overhead and ensures scalability in large data centers. EVPN also supports active-active multi-homing, loop prevention, and route optimization, further enhancing VXLAN deployment efficiency.

Other technologies such as MPLS, GRE, and Frame Relay provide Layer 3 transport or basic tunneling but do not offer the same level of Layer 2 overlay, multi-tenant segmentation, and scalability. MPLS VPNs isolate traffic between tenants at Layer 3 but do not provide a native Layer 2 extension. GRE tunnels encapsulate traffic but lack a control plane for scalable MAC address distribution. Frame Relay is a legacy technology with limited support for multi-tenant overlays.

VXLAN overlays integrate with software-defined networking (SDN) solutions, such as Cisco ACI or DNA Center, for automation, policy enforcement, and centralized monitoring. Administrators can provision overlays dynamically, enforce segmentation policies, and optimize traffic flows for performance and security. VXLAN also supports microsegmentation, allowing granular policy enforcement based on applications, devices, or user roles, improving security in multi-tenant environments.

By using VXLAN, enterprises can extend Layer 2 networks to remote data centers or cloud environments, enabling VM mobility, disaster recovery, and unified network management without physical reconfiguration. The combination of VXLAN encapsulation and EVPN control plane ensures efficient, scalable, and secure operation across complex enterprise networks.

In summary, VXLAN enables Layer 2 network extension across geographically dispersed sites while supporting multi-tenant isolation, making option B correct.

Question 63:

Which protocol provides redundancy for default gateways in a LAN and supports both Cisco-proprietary and open standard implementations?

A) HSRP
B) VRRP
C) GLBP
D) Both A and B

Answer:

D) Both A and B

Explanation:

High Availability of default gateways is critical in enterprise LANs to ensure uninterrupted network connectivity for end devices. Protocols like HSRP (Hot Standby Router Protocol) and VRRP (Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol) provide this functionality by allowing multiple routers to share a virtual IP address that acts as the default gateway for hosts.

HSRP is Cisco-proprietary and designates routers as active or standby. The active router handles traffic for the virtual IP, while the standby router monitors the active router’s status and takes over if it fails. HSRP supports multiple groups, preemption for priority-based failover, and authentication to secure the protocol exchanges. By maintaining a standby router ready to assume control, HSRP ensures minimal downtime and continuous access for hosts.

VRRP is an open standard protocol that performs a similar function. Routers elect a master router responsible for forwarding traffic to the virtual IP, while backup routers are ready to take over in the event of a failure. VRRP supports preemption, priority-based election, and advertisement intervals to detect failures quickly. VRRP’s standardization ensures interoperability across multi-vendor environments, which is crucial for enterprise networks with heterogeneous infrastructure.

Other protocols like GLBP (Gateway Load Balancing Protocol) offer both redundancy and load balancing, allowing multiple routers to simultaneously forward traffic for the same virtual IP. However, GLBP is Cisco-proprietary and less commonly deployed in mixed-vendor networks.

These redundancy protocols enhance network reliability by reducing the risk of gateway failure causing network outages. They are typically deployed alongside Layer 2 redundancy protocols such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to ensure both loop prevention and high availability. HSRP and VRRP allow enterprises to design resilient networks with predictable failover behavior and minimal disruption to user traffic.

By leveraging either HSRP or VRRP, enterprises can ensure that default gateway redundancy is maintained, providing uninterrupted connectivity, faster recovery from router failures, and seamless user experience across LAN segments. HSRP is preferred in Cisco-dominated environments, while VRRP is suited for heterogeneous networks where multi-vendor interoperability is required.

In conclusion, both HSRP and VRRP provide default gateway redundancy, ensuring continuous network connectivity in LANs, making option D correct.

Question 64:

Which Cisco technology provides centralized network visibility, assurance, and policy enforcement for wired and wireless networks?

A) Cisco ISE
B) Cisco DNA Center
C) NetFlow
D) Prime Infrastructure

Answer:

B) Cisco DNA Center

Explanation:

Cisco DNA Center is the centralized network management and assurance platform for Cisco’s Digital Network Architecture (DNA). It enables enterprises to automate configuration, enforce policies, and gain real-time visibility into wired and wireless networks. DNA Center integrates multiple capabilities into a single platform, including intent-based networking, network assurance, analytics, automation, and integration with identity-based security solutions.

One of the key functionalities of DNA Center is policy-based automation. Administrators define intent-based policies describing business objectives, which are then automatically translated into device-level configurations. Policies can specify traffic segmentation, QoS for applications, or access restrictions based on user roles or device type. Automation reduces configuration errors, accelerates deployment, and ensures consistency across the network.

DNA Center also provides network assurance using telemetry, streaming data, and AI/ML analytics. Continuous monitoring of devices, clients, and applications allows detection of anomalies, prediction of potential faults, and proactive remediation. For example, if wireless clients experience interference or poor signal quality, DNA Center identifies the issue and recommends corrective actions, sometimes automatically adjusting configurations to optimize performance.

Integration with Cisco ISE allows DNA Center to enforce identity-based policies, enabling consistent segmentation and access control across wired and wireless networks. Security policies can dynamically follow users and devices, ensuring compliance and protecting sensitive resources.

Other tools like NetFlow provide traffic analytics, Cisco ISE focuses on identity-based access, and Prime Infrastructure manages device configurations and monitoring. While useful individually, none combine automation, assurance, policy enforcement, and identity integration in a single unified platform as DNA Center does.

DNA Center also supports SD-Access, software-defined segmentation, and network virtualization, simplifying network operations while maintaining high security and performance. Its role in modern enterprise environments is critical for maintaining reliable, scalable, and secure network infrastructure.

In summary, Cisco DNA Center provides centralized visibility, assurance, and policy enforcement for both wired and wireless networks, making option B correct.

Question 65:

Which wireless standard operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and is suitable for high-density enterprise environments?

A) 802.11n
B) 802.11ac
C) 802.11a
D) 802.11b

Answer:

B) 802.11ac

Explanation:

802.11ac, also known as Wi-Fi 5, is a high-throughput wireless standard designed for enterprise deployments in the 5 GHz spectrum. It introduces several enhancements over previous standards, such as wider channel widths (up to 160 MHz), higher-order modulation (256-QAM), beamforming, and Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO). These features make 802.11ac particularly suitable for high-density environments like offices, campuses, and stadiums where multiple devices connect simultaneously.

MU-MIMO allows access points to communicate with multiple clients simultaneously, rather than sequentially as in single-user MIMO. This reduces latency, increases overall throughput, and improves user experience in environments with heavy client density. Beamforming focuses RF energy toward the client device, enhancing signal quality and coverage, especially in areas with interference or complex physical layouts.

The 5 GHz band offers more non-overlapping channels compared to 2.4 GHz, reducing co-channel interference and improving performance in crowded environments. 802.11ac also maintains backward compatibility with 802.11a/n devices, ensuring smooth coexistence during network upgrades.

Other standards have limitations. 802.11n operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz but lacks MU-MIMO and provides lower maximum throughput. 802.11a operates in 5 GHz but does not include the advanced enhancements of 802.11ac. 802.11b operates in 2.4 GHz and provides very low data rates, making it unsuitable for modern enterprise applications.

In enterprise networks, 802.11ac enables high-bandwidth applications like VoIP, video conferencing, large file transfers, and cloud services. It also integrates with wireless controllers and management platforms, allowing centralized policy enforcement, monitoring, and optimization. These features make 802.11ac the preferred wireless standard for enterprise environments that require high capacity, low latency, and efficient spectrum utilization.

In summary, 802.11ac operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and is optimized for high-density enterprise environments, making option B correct.

Question 66:

Which OSPF area type reduces routing table size and limits the scope of external route advertisements while maintaining connectivity to the backbone?

A) Backbone Area
B) Stub Area
C) Not-So-Stubby Area (NSSA)
D) Totally Stubby Area

Answer:

C) Not-So-Stubby Area (NSSA)

Explanation:

OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) is a link-state routing protocol widely deployed in enterprise networks due to its fast convergence and scalability. In large networks, hierarchical design is critical for efficiency, which is achieved by segmenting the network into areas. OSPF areas help reduce routing table size, limit flooding of LSAs (Link-State Advertisements), and improve convergence. One specialized area type is the Not-So-Stubby Area (NSSA).

An NSSA is similar to a stub area but allows limited external routes to be imported into the OSPF domain. Standard stub areas do not permit external routes (Type 5 LSAs) from outside the OSPF autonomous system to enter, effectively reducing routing table size but preventing redistribution of external routes. NSSA solves this limitation by enabling the injection of external routes as Type 7 LSAs within the area, which are then converted to Type 5 LSAs at the area border router (ABR) for distribution to other areas.

This capability is particularly important in enterprise networks that require connectivity to external networks such as the internet or other autonomous systems while still benefiting from stub-like optimization. NSSAs help reduce unnecessary flooding of external LSAs throughout the OSPF domain, minimizing CPU and memory utilization on routers in large-scale deployments.

Other area types include backbone areas (Area 0), which interconnect all other areas and carry all types of LSAs; stub areas, which block external Type 5 LSAs; and totally stubby areas, which block both external LSAs and inter-area Type 3 LSAs except for a default route. NSSA strikes a balance by allowing selective external route advertisement while maintaining reduced routing table size.

Enterprise designers use NSSA in branch offices where external routes need to be redistributed, but full exposure to all external routes in the OSPF domain is unnecessary. By carefully planning NSSA placement, OSPF networks achieve scalability, efficient routing, and predictable convergence without overloading routers with excessive LSA information.

In summary, the Not-So-Stubby Area (NSSA) reduces routing table size, limits external route flooding, and still permits redistribution of external routes, making option C correct.

Question 67:

Which Cisco protocol allows multiple routers to share a virtual IP address while providing redundancy for default gateways?

A) HSRP
B) VRRP
C) GLBP
D) All of the above

Answer:

D) All of the above

Explanation:

In enterprise networks, high availability for default gateways is essential to prevent outages when a router fails. Cisco provides several protocols that address this requirement: HSRP (Hot Standby Router Protocol), VRRP (Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol), and GLBP (Gateway Load Balancing Protocol). Each protocol enables multiple routers to share a virtual IP address that hosts use as their default gateway.

HSRP is Cisco-proprietary. It designates one router as active and another as standby. If the active router fails, the standby router takes over immediately, providing continuous connectivity. HSRP supports preemption and prioritization, allowing network engineers to control which router becomes active based on criteria such as link speed or reliability. HSRP is widely deployed in Cisco-dominated networks for its simplicity and predictable failover behavior.

VRRP is an open-standard protocol that functions similarly to HSRP. VRRP elects a master router to handle traffic for the virtual IP, while backup routers monitor the master’s health. VRRP ensures interoperability across multi-vendor networks, making it suitable in environments where non-Cisco routers are deployed alongside Cisco devices. Preemption and priority configuration allow administrators to manage failover and redundancy behavior efficiently.

GLBP combines redundancy with load balancing. Unlike HSRP and VRRP, which have a single active router, GLBP allows multiple routers to actively forward traffic for the same virtual IP. This increases bandwidth utilization and provides redundancy while maintaining high availability. GLBP elects an Active Virtual Gateway (AVG) and assigns Active Virtual Forwarders (AVFs) to handle portions of traffic, distributing load dynamically.

These protocols enhance enterprise network reliability by reducing single points of failure. In high-availability environments, such as data centers, branch offices, and campuses, they ensure uninterrupted access to default gateways, allowing critical services like VoIP, video conferencing, and cloud applications to continue functioning seamlessly.

Network designers choose the appropriate protocol based on network topology, vendor interoperability, and load-balancing requirements. HSRP is ideal for Cisco-only deployments with simple redundancy requirements. VRRP is chosen for multi-vendor networks, and GLBP is preferred when load balancing is needed alongside redundancy.

In summary, HSRP, VRRP, and GLBP all provide default gateway redundancy and virtual IP sharing, making option D correct.

Question 68:

Which data center technology enables scalable Layer 2 overlays, multi-tenant segmentation, and reduces broadcast traffic using a control-plane protocol?

A) VLAN
B) VXLAN with BGP EVPN
C) GRE Tunnel
D) MPLS

Answer:

B) VXLAN with BGP EVPN

Explanation:

Virtual Extensible LAN (VXLAN) is a Layer 2 overlay technology designed to scale modern enterprise and data center networks beyond traditional VLAN limitations. VXLAN uses a 24-bit VXLAN Network Identifier (VNI) to support up to 16 million logical networks, providing a foundation for multi-tenant environments. However, without a control plane, VXLAN relies on flooding and learning to distribute MAC addresses, which can generate significant broadcast traffic and reduce scalability.

Integration with BGP EVPN (Ethernet VPN) introduces a control plane that advertises MAC address reachability across VXLAN Tunnel Endpoints (VTEPs). BGP EVPN eliminates the need for traditional flooding for unknown unicast, multicast, and broadcast (BUM) traffic by providing a distributed MAC learning mechanism. VTEPs exchange MAC address and VNI mappings, enabling each endpoint to know the location of every other endpoint in the overlay network. This reduces unnecessary network traffic and improves convergence in dynamic environments.

VXLAN with BGP EVPN supports multi-tenant segmentation by allowing each tenant or application to be mapped to a unique VNI. Policies can be enforced per tenant, enabling isolation, access control, and traffic shaping. Enterprises can deploy large-scale data center fabrics with thousands of tenants without the limitations imposed by traditional VLANs.

Other technologies such as VLANs, GRE, and MPLS provide partial functionality. VLANs are limited to 4,096 IDs, do not provide overlay capabilities across Layer 3 networks, and require flooding for unknown traffic. GRE tunnels encapsulate traffic but do not provide control-plane intelligence, scalability, or multi-tenant segmentation. MPLS is primarily a Layer 3 transport solution, providing traffic engineering and QoS but not native Layer 2 overlays for multi-tenant environments.

VXLAN with BGP EVPN also integrates with software-defined networking (SDN) controllers such as Cisco ACI or DNA Center, enabling automated deployment, policy enforcement, and network assurance. Automation reduces human error and accelerates provisioning of virtual networks, while analytics and assurance capabilities monitor performance, identify anomalies, and recommend optimizations.

Microsegmentation is another benefit, allowing granular policies to follow workloads regardless of physical location. This improves security and compliance by segmenting applications, users, or devices at a fine-grained level. VXLAN with EVPN ensures high scalability, reduced broadcast traffic, multi-tenant isolation, and simplified operational management, making it the preferred choice in modern data centers.

In summary, VXLAN with BGP EVPN provides scalable Layer 2 overlays, multi-tenant segmentation, and broadcast reduction using a control-plane protocol, making option B correct.

Question 69:

Which WAN technology allows enterprises to establish secure, high-performance, multi-tenant networks with QoS guarantees across geographically dispersed sites?

A) MPLS VPN
B) Frame Relay
C) Metro Ethernet
D) DSL

Answer:

A) MPLS VPN

Explanation:

Multiprotocol Label Switching Virtual Private Networks (MPLS VPNs) are widely deployed in enterprise WAN environments to provide secure, scalable, and predictable connectivity between sites. MPLS VPNs leverage labels rather than IP headers for forwarding decisions, which allows traffic to follow predetermined paths, supports traffic engineering, and provides Quality of Service (QoS) guarantees. This ensures that critical applications such as voice, video, or cloud services receive consistent performance across the WAN.

MPLS VPNs use Virtual Routing and Forwarding (VRF) to isolate traffic for multiple tenants or business units. Each VRF instance maintains a separate routing table, allowing overlapping IP addresses and complete separation of tenant traffic. Layer 3 MPLS VPNs provide IP-based segmentation, while Layer 2 VPNs (VPLS) extend Ethernet segments over the MPLS backbone. This flexibility allows enterprises to deploy secure multi-tenant WANs while maintaining high performance and reliability.

Traffic engineering is a significant advantage of MPLS. Network administrators can define explicit Label-Switched Paths (LSPs) to optimize link utilization, reduce congestion, and ensure low-latency paths for mission-critical applications. QoS policies can prioritize different traffic types, enabling predictable performance for voice, video, and data traffic simultaneously.

Other WAN technologies such as Frame Relay, Metro Ethernet, and DSL have limitations. Frame Relay is outdated and lacks modern QoS capabilities and scalability. Metro Ethernet provides high-speed connectivity but lacks built-in multi-tenant isolation and sophisticated traffic engineering. DSL offers low bandwidth and limited enterprise suitability.

MPLS VPNs also integrate seamlessly with hybrid cloud environments and SD-WAN solutions, enabling secure connectivity to cloud services and remote offices without sacrificing tenant isolation, traffic engineering, or QoS guarantees. Enterprises can centrally manage VRFs, monitor traffic, and dynamically provision connections, improving operational efficiency.

In conclusion, MPLS VPNs enable secure, high-performance, multi-tenant WANs with QoS guarantees, making them the preferred choice for geographically dispersed enterprise networks. Therefore, option A is correct.

Question 70:

Which wireless standard operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and is suitable for high-density enterprise environments?

A) 802.11n
B) 802.11ac
C) 802.11a
D) 802.11b

Answer:

B) 802.11ac

Explanation:

802.11ac, also referred to as Wi-Fi 5, is a high-throughput wireless standard designed for enterprise environments, operating primarily in the 5 GHz frequency band. It introduces several key enhancements over its predecessors, such as Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO), higher-order modulation (256-QAM), beamforming, and wider channel widths (up to 160 MHz). These improvements make it highly suitable for high-density deployments such as corporate offices, campuses, or stadiums.

MU-MIMO allows an access point to communicate with multiple clients simultaneously, reducing contention and improving aggregate throughput. Beamforming focuses the wireless signal toward the client, enhancing coverage and minimizing interference. The 5 GHz band provides more non-overlapping channels compared to 2.4 GHz, reducing congestion and improving performance in crowded environments.

Other standards have limitations. 802.11n operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz but does not support MU-MIMO and provides lower throughput. 802.11a operates in 5 GHz but lacks the advanced modulation, channel widths, and MIMO enhancements of 802.11ac. 802.11b operates in 2.4 GHz with very low data rates, unsuitable for modern enterprise applications.

In enterprise deployments, 802.11ac supports high-bandwidth applications such as VoIP, video conferencing, cloud services, and large file transfers. It integrates with centralized wireless controllers and management platforms to provide seamless roaming, policy enforcement, and network monitoring. By combining high performance, high capacity, and advanced features, 802.11ac is considered the standard for high-density enterprise Wi-Fi.

In summary, 802.11ac operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and is optimized for high-density enterprise environments, making option B correct.

Question 71:

Which protocol is used in enterprise networks to collect, monitor, and analyze traffic patterns and performance metrics?

A) NetFlow
B) SNMP
C) Syslog
D) CDP

Answer:

A) NetFlow

Explanation:

NetFlow is a network protocol developed by Cisco to collect, monitor, and analyze traffic flow data within enterprise networks. It allows administrators to gain visibility into which devices are communicating, the types of traffic being transmitted, and the paths taken by packets through the network. NetFlow operates by capturing metadata about network packets rather than the full packet payload, including source and destination IP addresses, port numbers, protocol types, and interface information. This enables scalable monitoring without overwhelming network resources.

NetFlow plays a critical role in enterprise network management. First, it provides visibility into bandwidth utilization. Administrators can identify which applications or hosts consume the most bandwidth, enabling proactive capacity planning and optimization. For example, high-bandwidth consumption from video conferencing or cloud backup applications can be detected and managed using QoS policies.

Second, NetFlow supports security monitoring and threat detection. By analyzing flow patterns, abnormal behaviors such as Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, unauthorized access attempts, or malware propagation can be detected in real-time. Integration with network security platforms allows automated responses to mitigate threats.

Third, NetFlow aids in troubleshooting. When network issues arise, administrators can review flow data to identify congested links, misconfigured devices, or routing loops. Because NetFlow provides granular visibility into traffic patterns, problems can often be isolated more quickly compared to relying solely on interface counters or logs.

NetFlow supports different versions, including traditional NetFlow (v5 and v9) and IPFIX (Internet Protocol Flow Information Export). These versions allow more flexible reporting and support for modern network architectures such as IPv6 and MPLS. NetFlow can export flow records to a collector, where analytics tools aggregate, visualize, and analyze traffic patterns.

Other options provide partial functionality but are not sufficient on their own. SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) is primarily used for monitoring device performance and status, not detailed traffic flow. Syslog captures log messages from devices for auditing and troubleshooting but does not provide traffic analysis. CDP (Cisco Discovery Protocol) is a device discovery protocol used to map network topology rather than monitor traffic patterns.

In enterprise environments, NetFlow is essential for capacity planning, security monitoring, and troubleshooting. By providing detailed traffic flow information, it allows administrators to optimize network performance, enforce policies, and detect threats proactively. NetFlow is particularly valuable in complex environments with multiple sites, high-bandwidth applications, and hybrid cloud connectivity.

In conclusion, NetFlow enables the collection, monitoring, and analysis of traffic patterns and performance metrics in enterprise networks, making option A correct.

Question 72:

Which Cisco technology enables end-to-end segmentation and policy enforcement based on user, device, and application identity?

A) Cisco ISE
B) Cisco DNA Center
C) ACLs
D) NetFlow

Answer:

A) Cisco ISE

Explanation:

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is a centralized policy management and access control platform that enables enterprises to enforce consistent security and segmentation policies across wired, wireless, and VPN networks. ISE allows policy decisions to be based on user identity, device type, posture compliance, and application context, providing granular control over who and what can access the network.

At the core of ISE functionality is identity-based access control. ISE integrates with AAA protocols, primarily RADIUS, to authenticate users and devices. Administrators can define policies specifying which roles or device types are allowed on the network. For instance, corporate laptops may have full access to enterprise resources, while guest devices are restricted to a limited VLAN with internet-only access.

Device profiling and posture assessment are critical components of ISE. Device profiling automatically identifies endpoints such as laptops, smartphones, IoT devices, or printers, allowing appropriate policies to be applied. Posture assessment ensures that endpoints comply with organizational security standards, such as having up-to-date antivirus, patches, or required configurations. Non-compliant devices can be quarantined or redirected for remediation.

Security Group Tags (SGTs) enable segmentation that follows the user or device across the network, independent of physical location or VLAN. Integration with Cisco TrustSec ensures that policies are consistently enforced across all network segments, providing end-to-end security and segmentation. This approach simplifies network management while reducing risk from unauthorized access or compromised devices.

Other technologies provide partial enforcement. ACLs (Access Control Lists) can filter traffic based on IP, protocol, or port but do not provide identity-based or dynamic policy enforcement. NetFlow collects traffic data for monitoring and analytics but cannot enforce security policies. Cisco DNA Center offers automation and assurance but relies on integration with ISE for identity-based segmentation and enforcement.

In enterprise deployments, ISE enhances network security by combining authentication, authorization, and dynamic policy enforcement. Its ability to integrate with wired, wireless, and VPN access points allows centralized control across large, distributed networks. ISE also provides reporting, auditing, and integration with third-party security tools to monitor compliance and detect potential threats.

By leveraging ISE, enterprises can ensure that access policies are consistent, enforce least-privilege principles, and respond dynamically to network events. For example, if a user connects an unknown device to the network, ISE can automatically apply a restrictive policy or redirect the device to a remediation portal, maintaining security without disrupting legitimate users.

In summary, Cisco ISE enables end-to-end segmentation and policy enforcement based on user, device, and application identity, making option A correct.

Question 73:

Which protocol is used in data center networks to advertise MAC address reachability information for VXLAN overlays?

A) OSPF
B) BGP EVPN
C) STP
D) RSTP

Answer:

B) BGP EVPN

Explanation:

In modern data center environments, VXLAN is used to provide scalable Layer 2 overlays over Layer 3 networks, allowing multiple tenants or applications to operate on isolated logical networks. VXLAN relies on MAC address learning to forward traffic between endpoints. While traditional VXLAN can use flooding and learning for unknown unicast, this approach does not scale efficiently in large networks. BGP EVPN (Ethernet VPN) provides a control-plane solution to distribute MAC address reachability information across VXLAN Tunnel Endpoints (VTEPs), enabling efficient, scalable, and loop-free connectivity.

BGP EVPN advertises endpoint MAC addresses, VXLAN Network Identifiers (VNIs), and associated IP addresses to all participating VTEPs. This eliminates the need for flooding unknown traffic, significantly reducing unnecessary broadcast, unknown unicast, and multicast (BUM) traffic. By using a control plane, BGP EVPN also allows for active-active multi-homing and seamless failover, improving network resilience and load distribution.

BGP EVPN supports multi-tenant isolation by mapping each tenant to a unique VNI. Policies can be applied per tenant, ensuring secure and efficient traffic segregation. This is particularly important for data centers hosting cloud services, multi-tenant environments, or enterprise applications with strict compliance and isolation requirements.

Other protocols listed do not fulfill the same function. OSPF is a Layer 3 routing protocol, STP and RSTP provide loop prevention at Layer 2, but none of these protocols distribute MAC address reachability for VXLAN overlays. Without BGP EVPN, VXLAN overlays would have to rely on flooding, which reduces efficiency and scalability in large-scale deployments.

BGP EVPN also integrates with SDN controllers and automation platforms, allowing dynamic provisioning of overlays, policy enforcement, and real-time monitoring. Network designers can deploy scalable, highly available fabrics without worrying about excessive broadcast traffic or inconsistent MAC learning. Microsegmentation can also be applied, enhancing security at a granular level.

In summary, BGP EVPN is the control-plane protocol that distributes MAC address reachability information for VXLAN overlays, enabling scalable, efficient, and secure Layer 2 connectivity in modern data center networks. Therefore, option B is correct.

Question 74:

Which wireless standard operates primarily in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and is suitable for high-density enterprise environments?

A) 802.11n
B) 802.11ac
C) 802.11a
D) 802.11b

Answer:

B) 802.11ac

Explanation:

802.11ac, also known as Wi-Fi 5, is a wireless standard designed for high-throughput and high-density enterprise environments, primarily operating in the 5 GHz band. It introduces advanced features such as Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO), beamforming, higher-order modulation (256-QAM), and wider channel bandwidths (up to 160 MHz), all of which optimize throughput, efficiency, and coverage in environments with multiple connected devices.

MU-MIMO allows simultaneous communication with multiple clients, reducing contention and improving overall network efficiency. Beamforming focuses RF energy toward specific clients, enhancing signal quality and coverage in high-density deployments such as offices, campuses, or stadiums. The 5 GHz spectrum provides more non-overlapping channels than 2.4 GHz, minimizing interference and co-channel contention in crowded environments.

Other standards have limitations. 802.11n operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz but does not support MU-MIMO and provides lower maximum throughput. 802.11a operates in 5 GHz but lacks the enhancements and channel width of 802.11ac. 802.11b operates in 2.4 GHz and has low data rates unsuitable for modern enterprise applications.

In enterprise networks, 802.11ac supports high-bandwidth applications such as cloud services, video conferencing, VoIP, and large file transfers. Integration with centralized wireless controllers allows seamless roaming, policy enforcement, and monitoring, ensuring consistent performance and security. High-density deployments benefit from MU-MIMO, beamforming, and wider channels, making 802.11ac the standard for enterprise Wi-Fi.

In summary, 802.11ac operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and is optimized for high-density enterprise deployments, making option B correct.

Question 75:

Which WAN technology allows enterprises to provide secure, high-performance, and multi-tenant connectivity with traffic engineering and QoS guarantees?

A) MPLS VPN
B) Frame Relay
C) Metro Ethernet
D) DSL

Answer:

A) MPLS VPN

Explanation:

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) VPNs are widely deployed in enterprise WAN environments to provide secure, scalable, and predictable connectivity between geographically dispersed sites. MPLS uses label-based forwarding, allowing traffic to follow predetermined Label-Switched Paths (LSPs), which improves performance, enables traffic engineering, and provides Quality of Service (QoS) guarantees. These features make MPLS VPNs ideal for enterprise networks carrying voice, video, and critical data traffic.

MPLS VPNs use Virtual Routing and Forwarding (VRF) instances to isolate traffic for multiple tenants or business units. Each VRF maintains a separate routing table, supporting overlapping IP addresses and complete traffic segregation. Layer 3 MPLS VPNs provide IP-based segmentation, while Layer 2 VPNs (VPLS) extend Ethernet segments across the WAN. This allows secure multi-tenant connectivity with guaranteed performance.

Traffic engineering in MPLS enables administrators to control paths for specific applications, optimizing bandwidth utilization, reducing congestion, and ensuring low-latency delivery for latency-sensitive applications. QoS policies prioritize different traffic types, providing predictable performance across the WAN.

Other WAN technologies have limitations. Frame Relay is largely obsolete, lacks modern QoS capabilities, and has limited scalability. Metro Ethernet provides high-speed connectivity but lacks multi-tenant isolation and traffic engineering. DSL is low-bandwidth and unsuitable for enterprise-grade applications.

MPLS VPNs also integrate with SD-WAN and hybrid cloud environments, enabling secure and optimized connectivity to remote offices and cloud services. Enterprises can centrally manage VRFs, monitor performance, and dynamically provision new connections, improving operational efficiency while maintaining security and QoS.

In summary, MPLS VPN provides secure, high-performance, multi-tenant WAN connectivity with traffic engineering and QoS guarantees, making option A correct.

Question 76:

Which routing protocol supports unequal-cost load balancing and uses the Diffusing Update Algorithm (DUAL) to provide loop-free paths?

A) OSPF
B) EIGRP
C) RIP
D) BGP

Answer:

B) EIGRP

Explanation:

Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) is a Cisco-proprietary distance-vector routing protocol that incorporates features of both distance-vector and link-state protocols. One of EIGRP’s distinguishing capabilities is its use of the Diffusing Update Algorithm (DUAL), which ensures loop-free paths and rapid convergence while maintaining backup routes for quick failover. This makes EIGRP particularly suitable for enterprise networks requiring high availability and fast recovery from link or node failures.

DUAL is central to EIGRP’s operation. It calculates the shortest path to a destination based on composite metrics such as bandwidth, delay, load, and reliability. Unlike traditional distance-vector protocols like RIP, which rely on periodic updates and may experience slow convergence and routing loops, EIGRP maintains a topology table containing feasible successors (backup routes) in addition to the primary route. This ensures that if the primary route fails, a feasible backup can immediately take over, minimizing downtime.

EIGRP also supports unequal-cost load balancing through the variance command. This allows traffic to be distributed across multiple paths, not just the shortest path, as long as the backup paths meet the feasibility condition. The feasibility condition states that the reported distance of a backup route must be less than the feasible distance of the primary path. By doing so, EIGRP ensures loop-free utilization of multiple paths, optimizing bandwidth usage without compromising network stability.

Other routing protocols have limitations in comparison. OSPF is a link-state protocol that provides equal-cost load balancing but does not natively support unequal-cost load balancing. RIP is a distance-vector protocol with limited scalability, slow convergence, and no mechanism for unequal-cost load balancing. BGP is an exterior gateway protocol designed for inter-domain routing; it does not support fast convergence for internal enterprise networks or unequal-cost load balancing in the same manner as EIGRP.

EIGRP also maintains three primary tables: the neighbor table, which tracks directly connected peers; the topology table, which contains all learned routes along with feasible successors; and the routing table, which contains the best routes selected by DUAL. By organizing information in this manner, EIGRP provides rapid convergence, efficient routing, and robustness in large and complex enterprise networks.

From a design perspective, EIGRP allows network engineers to leverage redundant links for load balancing while maintaining a loop-free environment. This is particularly beneficial in campus networks, branch office connections, or data center environments where multiple paths exist between locations. The protocol’s efficiency reduces CPU and memory consumption compared to protocols that flood the network with frequent updates.

In conclusion, EIGRP supports unequal-cost load balancing, uses DUAL for loop-free path calculation, and maintains backup routes for fast failover, making option B correct.

Question 77:

Which Cisco technology provides centralized management, automation, and assurance for enterprise wired and wireless networks?

A) Cisco ISE
B) Cisco DNA Center
C) NetFlow
D) Prime Infrastructure

Answer:

B) Cisco DNA Center

Explanation:

Cisco Digital Network Architecture (DNA) Center is a comprehensive network management and assurance platform designed for enterprise environments. It provides centralized management, automation, and assurance across both wired and wireless networks. DNA Center is the cornerstone of intent-based networking, allowing administrators to define business intent and automatically translate it into network policies, configurations, and enforcement.

Automation is a key benefit of DNA Center. Administrators can provision new devices, configure VLANs, QoS policies, and wireless SSIDs without manual CLI intervention. This reduces human error, accelerates deployment, and ensures policy consistency across large networks. Automated device discovery and provisioning streamline operations, particularly in campus environments with numerous switches, routers, and access points.

DNA Center also provides network assurance using telemetry and real-time analytics. By continuously monitoring device performance, client connectivity, and application health, DNA Center can proactively detect anomalies, predict potential failures, and recommend corrective actions. Integration with AI/ML analytics enables intelligent root-cause analysis and proactive remediation, improving network reliability and minimizing downtime.

Another critical capability is policy enforcement and segmentation. DNA Center integrates with Cisco ISE to apply role-based access policies across the network, ensuring consistent enforcement regardless of whether users connect via wired or wireless networks. Security policies, QoS rules, and application prioritization can be automatically applied based on user, device, or application identity.

Other technologies provide partial functionality. Cisco ISE enforces identity-based policies but does not provide end-to-end automation and network assurance. NetFlow collects traffic flow information for monitoring and troubleshooting but cannot provision or enforce policies. Prime Infrastructure provides monitoring and management but lacks modern intent-based automation and AI-driven assurance capabilities.

DNA Center also supports SD-Access, which uses software-defined segmentation to enforce policies at the network edge. By combining automation, assurance, and security integration, DNA Center allows enterprises to manage complex, large-scale networks efficiently while maintaining high performance, security, and compliance.

In summary, Cisco DNA Center provides centralized management, automation, and assurance for wired and wireless networks, making option B correct.

Question 78:

Which technology encapsulates Layer 2 Ethernet frames into Layer 3 packets for large-scale data center network overlays?

A) VLAN
B) VXLAN
C) MPLS
D) GRE

Answer:

B) VXLAN

Explanation:

Virtual Extensible LAN (VXLAN) is a network virtualization technology designed to overcome the limitations of traditional VLANs in large-scale data center networks. VLANs are limited to 4,096 unique identifiers, which is insufficient for modern multi-tenant or large-scale enterprise environments. VXLAN addresses this limitation by providing a 24-bit VXLAN Network Identifier (VNI), allowing up to 16 million logical Layer 2 networks.

VXLAN encapsulates Layer 2 Ethernet frames into UDP-encapsulated Layer 3 packets. VXLAN Tunnel Endpoints (VTEPs) perform the encapsulation and decapsulation, allowing Layer 2 segments to be extended over a Layer 3 IP network. This decoupling of logical and physical topology allows data centers to scale efficiently while maintaining multi-tenant isolation.

One of the key challenges in traditional Layer 2 networks is broadcast traffic and MAC table scalability. VXLAN with BGP EVPN (Ethernet VPN) control plane reduces flooding by distributing MAC address information via BGP advertisements. This eliminates the need for broadcast-based learning, improves convergence, and reduces unnecessary traffic in large-scale networks.

Other technologies have limitations. VLANs are restricted by ID count and cannot extend across Layer 3 networks without additional tunneling. MPLS is primarily a Layer 3 transport mechanism and does not provide native Layer 2 overlays for multi-tenant segmentation. GRE tunnels can encapsulate traffic but lack a control plane, making them less scalable for multi-tenant large-scale deployments.

VXLAN overlays support automation and orchestration with software-defined networking (SDN) platforms like Cisco ACI or DNA Center. Administrators can dynamically provision virtual networks, enforce policies, and monitor performance. VXLAN also enables microsegmentation, allowing security policies to be applied at the application or tenant level rather than just the network level, enhancing security and compliance in enterprise data centers.

From a performance perspective, VXLAN can leverage hardware offloading to handle encapsulation and decapsulation efficiently, minimizing latency and ensuring high throughput. It also supports mobility of virtual machines across data centers without reconfiguring the underlying physical network.

In summary, VXLAN encapsulates Layer 2 Ethernet frames into Layer 3 packets, enabling scalable, multi-tenant overlays in modern enterprise data centers, making option B correct.

Question 79:

Which wireless security standard provides enterprise-level encryption and centralized authentication for Wi-Fi networks?

A) WEP
B) WPA2-Enterprise
C) WPA-PSK
D) TKIP

Answer:

B) WPA2-Enterprise

Explanation:

WPA2-Enterprise is a wireless security standard designed for enterprise Wi-Fi networks. Unlike WPA-PSK or WEP, which rely on shared keys, WPA2-Enterprise uses IEEE 802.1X authentication combined with a RADIUS server to provide centralized authentication, encryption, and policy enforcement for individual users and devices. This ensures that each client is authenticated before gaining network access, providing a scalable and secure solution for enterprise environments.

WPA2-Enterprise uses AES encryption with the Counter Mode with Cipher Block Chaining Message Authentication Code Protocol (CCMP), which provides strong confidentiality, integrity, and authentication for wireless traffic. This encryption is essential for protecting sensitive enterprise data, including intellectual property, customer information, and communications.

Centralized authentication allows role-based access control. Users or devices can be assigned policies based on their credentials, device type, or compliance posture. Integration with Cisco ISE enables dynamic VLAN assignment, device profiling, and posture assessment. Non-compliant devices can be quarantined or restricted, minimizing security risks while allowing legitimate users to access required resources seamlessly.

Other wireless standards have limitations. WEP uses weak RC4 encryption and is vulnerable to attacks. WPA-PSK is suitable for small networks but lacks per-user authentication and centralized policy enforcement. TKIP, used with legacy WPA, has known vulnerabilities and is considered insecure for modern enterprise deployments.

WPA2-Enterprise also supports seamless roaming between access points without re-authentication for each handoff, essential in high-density enterprise environments. By providing strong encryption, centralized authentication, and integration with network access control, WPA2-Enterprise ensures secure, reliable, and manageable wireless access for enterprise users.

In conclusion, WPA2-Enterprise provides strong encryption and centralized authentication, making it the enterprise standard for secure Wi-Fi networks, making option B correct.

Question 80:

Which WAN technology allows enterprises to provide secure, high-performance, multi-tenant connectivity with QoS guarantees across sites?

A) MPLS VPN
B) Frame Relay
C) Metro Ethernet
D) DSL

Answer:

A) MPLS VPN

Explanation:

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are widely used in enterprise WAN environments to provide secure, scalable, and predictable connectivity between geographically dispersed sites. MPLS uses label-based forwarding, which enables traffic to follow predetermined Label-Switched Paths (LSPs). This allows for traffic engineering, bandwidth optimization, and Quality of Service (QoS) guarantees, ensuring reliable delivery for latency-sensitive applications such as voice, video, and cloud-based services.

MPLS VPNs utilize Virtual Routing and Forwarding (VRF) instances to isolate traffic for multiple tenants or business units. Each VRF instance maintains a separate routing table, allowing overlapping IP addresses and complete traffic segregation. Layer 3 MPLS VPNs provide IP-based segmentation, while Layer 2 VPNs (VPLS) can extend Ethernet segments over the MPLS backbone, maintaining multi-tenant isolation and supporting legacy applications.

Traffic engineering is a critical advantage of MPLS. Administrators can define explicit paths for specific traffic flows, avoiding congestion, reducing latency, and ensuring high availability. QoS policies enable prioritization of critical applications, guaranteeing performance even during peak traffic periods.

Other WAN technologies have limitations. Frame Relay is largely legacy, lacks modern QoS, and is not scalable. Metro Ethernet provides high-speed connectivity but lacks multi-tenant isolation and traffic engineering capabilities. DSL is low-bandwidth and unsuitable for enterprise-grade applications.

MPLS VPNs integrate with SD-WAN and hybrid cloud architectures, enabling secure, optimized connectivity to cloud services, remote offices, and branch locations while maintaining isolation, predictable performance, and centralized management. MPLS VPN also supports redundancy and rapid failover, ensuring business continuity for critical enterprise services.

In conclusion, MPLS VPN provides secure, high-performance, multi-tenant WAN connectivity with QoS guarantees, making it the preferred solution for enterprise networks, making option A correct.