Cisco 350-401 Implementing Cisco Enterprise Network Core Technologies (ENCOR) Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set 9 Q161-180

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Question 161:

Which Cisco protocol allows for efficient Layer 2 MAC address distribution across VXLAN overlays, reducing flooding and improving scalability in multi-tenant data centers?

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

Answer:

B) BGP EVPN

Explanation:

BGP Ethernet VPN (EVPN) is a control-plane protocol specifically designed for VXLAN overlays in modern data center networks. Its primary function is to provide efficient Layer 2 MAC address reachability across VXLAN Tunnel Endpoints (VTEPs). Traditional Layer 2 networks rely heavily on flooding unknown unicast traffic to learn MAC addresses, which increases bandwidth consumption, CPU usage, and reduces overall network efficiency. BGP EVPN addresses these challenges by providing a deterministic control-plane mechanism for MAC learning and distribution.

In a VXLAN overlay, Ethernet frames are encapsulated in UDP packets for transport across a Layer 3 infrastructure. Without a control plane, unknown MAC addresses require flooding, which becomes a significant scalability issue in large multi-tenant environments. BGP EVPN allows VTEPs to advertise the MAC addresses they have learned along with their associated VXLAN Network Identifier (VNI) to all other VTEPs participating in the overlay. This eliminates the need for flooding and enables direct forwarding between VTEPs, improving network efficiency and performance.

Multi-tenant segmentation is one of the key advantages of BGP EVPN. Each VNI corresponds to a tenant, allowing multiple tenants to share the same physical infrastructure while maintaining strict isolation of their Layer 2 traffic. This is crucial in large enterprise data centers or cloud environments where different business units or customers must remain isolated. Active-active multi-homing is also supported, allowing multiple VTEPs to serve the same subnet, providing redundancy, and enabling load balancing across VTEPs.

Other protocols do not provide this capability. OSPF is a Layer 3 routing protocol and cannot distribute MAC addresses. STP prevents loops in Layer 2 networks but does not reduce flooding or provide multi-tenant segmentation. RIP is a simple distance-vector protocol unsuitable for overlay networks or MAC address distribution.

BGP EVPN also supports integration with Software Defined Networking (SDN) platforms such as Cisco ACI or DNA Center. These platforms allow centralized policy enforcement, automated provisioning of VNIs, and consistent monitoring of MAC and IP mappings across the entire network. This integration ensures that traffic flows efficiently, maintains security boundaries, and enables seamless workload mobility across the data center.

Operationally, BGP EVPN reduces network flooding, minimizes CPU and memory usage on VTEPs, and provides a scalable solution for large, multi-tenant data centers. By replacing flood-and-learn mechanisms with a distributed control plane, EVPN enables deterministic forwarding and predictable network performance. It also simplifies troubleshooting by providing a centralized view of MAC-to-VTEP mappings.

In conclusion, BGP EVPN allows for efficient Layer 2 MAC address distribution across VXLAN overlays, reduces flooding, and improves scalability in multi-tenant data centers, making option B correct.

Question 162:

Which Cisco solution provides centralized identity-based access control, dynamic policy enforcement, and endpoint compliance verification for enterprise networks?

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

Answer:

B) Cisco ISE

Explanation:

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is a centralized network security solution that provides identity-based access control, dynamic policy enforcement, and endpoint compliance verification for both wired and wireless enterprise networks. ISE acts as the AAA (Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting) server, centralizing the process of validating users and devices before granting network access. This centralized approach improves network security, simplifies policy enforcement, and ensures compliance with organizational standards.

Authentication is the initial step where ISE validates user credentials, device certificates, or multi-factor authentication tokens. Integration with 802.1X ensures that only authorized devices can connect to the network. Non-802.1X devices can be authenticated via MAC Authentication Bypass (MAB), and remote users can be authenticated via VPN. Once a user or device is authenticated, ISE applies dynamic policies based on role, device type, location, and security posture. For example, a guest user may be assigned to a restricted VLAN, while a corporate laptop receives full access.

Endpoint compliance verification ensures that devices meet the organization’s security requirements. ISE can check for antivirus software, OS patch levels, firewall settings, or encryption before allowing access. Devices failing compliance checks may be redirected to remediation networks or quarantined until they meet policy requirements. This proactive approach minimizes security risks and ensures that only compliant devices access the network.

ISE also supports multi-tenant environments through Security Group Tags (SGTs) and role-based access policies. SGTs allow administrators to segment network traffic based on user identity, device type, or department, maintaining isolation and enhancing security. Detailed logging and reporting provide visibility into network access events, support compliance audits, and assist with forensic investigations. Integration with SIEM systems enables real-time alerts for policy violations or suspicious activities.

Other solutions only provide partial functionality. Cisco DNA Center offers automation and assurance but does not enforce identity-based access policies. NetFlow provides traffic visibility but does not perform authentication or dynamic policy enforcement. Prime Infrastructure focuses on device management and monitoring without policy enforcement capabilities.

Operationally, ISE reduces administrative overhead, enforces consistent security policies, and ensures endpoint compliance across large enterprise networks. Integration with SD-Access enhances ISE functionality by allowing policies to dynamically follow devices as they move across different network segments. This ensures seamless access, reduces security risks, and simplifies management of complex enterprise networks.

In conclusion, Cisco ISE provides centralized identity-based access control, dynamic policy enforcement, and endpoint compliance verification, making option B correct.

Question 163:

Which routing protocol supports hierarchical network design with areas, fast convergence, and interoperability in multi-vendor enterprise environments?

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

Answer:

B) OSPF

Explanation:

Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) is a link-state routing protocol widely used in enterprise networks. It supports hierarchical design using areas, fast convergence, and interoperability across multi-vendor networks, making it ideal for large-scale enterprise deployments. Unlike Cisco-proprietary protocols like EIGRP, OSPF is an open standard, ensuring seamless operation in networks with equipment from multiple vendors.

OSPF uses a two-tier hierarchical structure consisting of the backbone area (Area 0) and other areas connected to it. This hierarchy helps reduce routing table sizes and confines link-state update propagation to the affected area, improving scalability and network stability. Each router maintains a Link-State Database (LSDB) that reflects the topology of its area. The Shortest Path First (SPF) algorithm computes optimal paths based on the LSDB, ensuring loop-free, efficient routing.

Fast convergence is achieved because only affected areas recalculate the SPF tree when a topology change occurs. This minimizes network downtime and ensures that critical applications continue to operate without interruption. Route summarization is supported, further reducing the size of routing tables and enhancing performance on backbone routers. Authentication mechanisms, such as MD5 or SHA, protect against unauthorized route updates, enhancing network security.

Other protocols are limited in enterprise contexts. RIP is a distance-vector protocol with slow convergence and a maximum hop count of 15. EIGRP converges quickly but is Cisco-proprietary, limiting interoperability. BGP is designed for inter-domain routing and is not optimized for intra-enterprise fast convergence.

Operationally, OSPF provides predictable routing behavior, scalable hierarchical design, rapid failure recovery, and efficient resource utilization. Its compatibility with IPv4 (OSPFv2) and IPv6 (OSPFv3) ensures that dual-stack networks can be deployed seamlessly. OSPF’s hierarchical structure allows enterprises to segment large networks into manageable areas, reducing routing overhead, enhancing stability, and facilitating troubleshooting.

In conclusion, OSPF supports hierarchical network design with areas, fast convergence, and interoperability in multi-vendor enterprise environments, making option B correct.

Question 164:

Which wireless standard operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and provides high throughput for high-density enterprise deployments?

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

Answer:

D) 802.11ac

Explanation:

802.11ac, also referred to as Wi-Fi 5, is a wireless standard optimized for high-throughput, high-density enterprise deployments. Operating primarily in the 5 GHz band, it offers more non-overlapping channels than the 2.4 GHz band, reducing interference and enhancing overall network performance. The 5 GHz band’s wider spectrum is particularly useful in high-density environments such as offices, auditoriums, and conference centers.

A key feature of 802.11ac is Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO), which allows an access point to communicate simultaneously with multiple clients. This improves network efficiency, reduces latency, and ensures higher aggregate throughput. Beamforming technology enhances signal quality by directing RF energy toward specific clients, improving coverage and reliability.

802.11ac supports wider channel bandwidths (up to 160 MHz) and higher-order modulation (256-QAM), enabling faster data rates and more efficient spectrum usage. Enterprise wireless controllers manage SSIDs, policies, and seamless roaming, ensuring predictable and reliable connectivity. 802.11ac also supports high-density device environments, making it suitable for modern enterprise networks with increasing wireless demand from IoT, mobile, and BYOD devices.

Other standards are less suitable. 802.11n operates in both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz but lacks MU-MIMO. 802.11b and 802.11g are limited to 2.4 GHz with lower throughput and higher interference susceptibility.

Operationally, 802.11ac ensures reliable, high-performance wireless connectivity, efficient spectrum usage, and seamless roaming for high-density enterprise environments. Its adoption in modern enterprises supports mobile users, cloud applications, video conferencing, and IoT devices while maintaining predictable network performance.

In conclusion, 802.11ac operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and provides high throughput for high-density enterprise deployments, making option D correct.

Question 165:

Which Cisco solution provides centralized network automation, assurance, and policy-based management across 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 centralized platform for network automation, assurance, and policy-based management, supporting both wired and wireless enterprise networks. DNA Center is a cornerstone of Cisco’s intent-based networking solution, translating business objectives into network configurations while continuously monitoring network performance and enforcing policies.

Automation features in DNA Center allow centralized provisioning of devices, VLANs, SSIDs, QoS policies, and software images. Administrators can create role-based, device-based, or application-based policies that ensure consistent network access and security. This reduces manual errors, accelerates deployment, and enhances operational efficiency.

Assurance capabilities leverage real-time telemetry, analytics, and AI/ML algorithms to detect anomalies, predict potential issues, and identify root causes quickly. This proactive monitoring minimizes downtime and improves the end-user experience. Integration with Cisco ISE enables identity-based access control, allowing policies to dynamically follow users and devices across the network.

Other solutions provide limited functionality. Cisco ISE enforces identity-based policies but lacks full network automation and assurance. NetFlow provides traffic visibility but cannot automate configuration or enforce policies. Prime Infrastructure offers monitoring and management but lacks AI-driven assurance and intent-based automation.

Operationally, DNA Center provides a single-pane-of-glass for managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting the enterprise network. It simplifies operational tasks, improves security through automated policy enforcement, and ensures predictable network performance across wired and wireless environments.

In conclusion, Cisco DNA Center provides centralized network automation, assurance, and policy-based management across enterprise wired and wireless networks, making option B correct.

Question 166:

Which Cisco protocol is used to provide centralized AAA services for both wired and wireless enterprise networks, supporting dynamic policy enforcement and endpoint posture assessment?

A) RADIUS
B) TACACS+
C) SNMP
D) NetFlow

Answer:

A) RADIUS

Explanation:

Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service (RADIUS) is a core protocol used in enterprise networks to provide centralized Authentication, Authorization, and Accounting (AAA) services for wired and wireless users. It is widely integrated with Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) to deliver advanced policy enforcement and endpoint posture assessment, enabling enterprises to secure network access for both employees and guests.

Authentication:

RADIUS authenticates users by validating credentials against a centralized database, which could include Active Directory, LDAP, or a RADIUS-compatible user repository. This centralization ensures consistent access control across the entire network. Wired users can be authenticated through 802.1X port-based access control, while wireless users connect via WPA2/WPA3 Enterprise encryption and RADIUS authentication. Remote users connecting via VPN can also be authenticated using RADIUS, making it a universal solution for enterprise environments.

Authorization:

After authentication, RADIUS enforces policies to control what resources a user or device can access. Cisco ISE can dynamically assign VLANs, Security Group Tags (SGTs), QoS policies, or ACLs based on the user’s role, device type, and security posture. For instance, a corporate laptop may receive full network access, whereas a guest device is restricted to the internet-only VLAN. This ensures secure segmentation and protects sensitive resources while providing appropriate access to authorized users.

Accounting:

RADIUS records detailed session information, including login/logout timestamps, device identifiers, MAC addresses, and commands executed. This provides operational visibility for auditing, compliance reporting, and forensic analysis. Network administrators can identify anomalies such as unusual login attempts, unauthorized device access, or suspicious activity patterns, enhancing security monitoring and incident response.

Integration with ISE:

Cisco ISE enhances RADIUS functionality by adding endpoint compliance verification (posture assessment). Devices are checked for antivirus, OS patch levels, firewall settings, and encryption status before network access is granted. Non-compliant devices can be redirected to remediation networks or quarantined until they meet policy requirements, reducing the risk of introducing vulnerabilities into the enterprise network.

Comparison with other options:

TACACS+ is primarily used for administrative access to network devices rather than general network access for end-users.

SNMP is used for monitoring and device management, not authentication or policy enforcement.

NetFlow provides traffic visibility and analytics but does not manage access control or policy enforcement.

Operational Benefits:

RADIUS centralization reduces administrative overhead, ensures consistent policy enforcement across wired, wireless, and VPN networks, and provides granular visibility into network access. With ISE integration, RADIUS supports dynamic policy changes, allowing policies to follow users and devices as they move across locations or network segments. This dynamic enforcement enhances security, simplifies network operations, and ensures compliance with organizational policies.

In conclusion, RADIUS is used to provide centralized AAA services for wired and wireless enterprise networks, supporting dynamic policy enforcement and endpoint posture assessment, making option A correct.

Question 167:

Which routing protocol is preferred for hierarchical enterprise networks, supports fast convergence, and is compatible with both IPv4 and IPv6?

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

Answer:

B) OSPF

Explanation:

Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) is a link-state routing protocol widely deployed in enterprise networks for its ability to support hierarchical designs, fast convergence, and dual-stack IPv4/IPv6 operation. Its open-standard design allows multi-vendor interoperability, making it suitable for heterogeneous enterprise environments.

Hierarchical Design:

OSPF divides networks into areas to improve scalability and reduce routing overhead. The backbone area (Area 0) connects all other areas, ensuring optimal routing between them. This segmentation reduces the size of routing tables, confines link-state updates to the affected area, and improves stability. Hierarchical design allows enterprises to deploy large networks efficiently, making OSPF suitable for campus, data center, and WAN environments.

Fast Convergence:

OSPF recalculates routes using the Shortest Path First (SPF) algorithm when topology changes occur. Only affected areas recompute their SPF tree, reducing convergence time and ensuring minimal disruption to network traffic. Rapid convergence is critical for enterprise networks running latency-sensitive applications such as VoIP, video conferencing, and cloud-based services.

IPv4 and IPv6 Compatibility:

OSPFv2 supports IPv4, while OSPFv3 supports IPv6. Both protocols maintain the same operational principles, including SPF computation and area-based hierarchy, allowing enterprises to deploy dual-stack networks seamlessly. This ensures that organizations can adopt IPv6 without redesigning their existing routing infrastructure.

Security Features:

OSPF supports authentication mechanisms like MD5 or SHA, preventing unauthorized devices from injecting false routing information. Secure routing ensures network integrity, reliability, and compliance with organizational security policies.

Comparison with Other Protocols:

RIP is distance-vector, slow to converge, and limited to 15 hops, making it unsuitable for large enterprise networks.

EIGRP is fast and supports hierarchical design but is Cisco-proprietary, limiting interoperability in multi-vendor networks.

BGP is designed for inter-domain routing and is not optimized for fast convergence in intra-enterprise networks.

Operational Benefits:

OSPF’s hierarchical design, rapid convergence, and dual-stack support make it ideal for large-scale enterprise deployments. It ensures predictable routing behavior, efficient network resource utilization, and reliable service delivery. Network engineers can implement summarization, stub areas, or NSSA to further optimize performance and scalability. The combination of open-standard compatibility and fast failure recovery provides enterprises with flexibility, stability, and resilience.

In conclusion, OSPF is preferred for hierarchical enterprise networks, supports fast convergence, and is compatible with IPv4 and IPv6, making option B correct.

Question 168:

Which WAN technology supports secure multi-tenant connectivity, traffic engineering, and guaranteed QoS for enterprise applications?

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

Answer:

B) MPLS VPN

Explanation:

Multiprotocol Label Switching (MPLS) VPN is the industry-standard WAN technology for enterprises requiring secure, multi-tenant connectivity, traffic engineering, and QoS guarantees. MPLS uses label-based forwarding to efficiently route packets through the network while providing deterministic service levels.

Label-Based Forwarding:

In MPLS, ingress routers assign labels to packets, which determine the path through the MPLS network. Intermediate routers forward packets based solely on labels rather than IP routing tables, reducing processing overhead and latency. This approach allows precise traffic engineering, enabling administrators to direct high-priority traffic along optimal paths while avoiding congestion.

Traffic Engineering and QoS:

MPLS supports explicit routing, bandwidth reservation, and prioritization of traffic based on application requirements. Latency-sensitive services like VoIP, video conferencing, or financial applications can be guaranteed specific QoS levels, ensuring predictable performance even under high load conditions.

Multi-Tenant Segmentation:

MPLS VPN uses Virtual Routing and Forwarding (VRF) instances to segment traffic for different tenants or business units. Each VRF maintains a separate routing table, allowing overlapping IP address spaces while maintaining strict isolation. Layer 3 MPLS VPNs provide IP-based segmentation, whereas Layer 2 VPNs (VPLS) extend Ethernet connectivity for legacy or non-IP workloads.

Comparison with Other Technologies:

DSL provides limited bandwidth and no inherent QoS or multi-tenant support.

Frame Relay is legacy technology with minimal traffic engineering or QoS capabilities.

Metro Ethernet offers high-speed connectivity but lacks built-in multi-tenant segmentation or traffic engineering.

Integration with SD-WAN:

Modern SD-WAN solutions complement MPLS VPN by providing centralized policy management, automated provisioning, and path optimization across MPLS and Internet links. Enterprises gain secure, high-performance connectivity across multiple sites, supporting hybrid cloud deployments and business-critical applications.

Operational Benefits:

MPLS VPN ensures predictable performance, reduces operational complexity, and provides secure segmentation for multiple tenants. Its ability to combine traffic engineering, QoS guarantees, and multi-tenant support makes it ideal for enterprises with critical workloads, high availability requirements, and geographically dispersed offices.

In conclusion, MPLS VPN supports secure multi-tenant connectivity, traffic engineering, and guaranteed QoS for enterprise applications, making option B correct.

Question 169:

Which protocol allows Layer 2 networks to be extended across Layer 3 infrastructures while supporting multi-tenant segmentation and reduced flooding?

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

Answer:

C) VXLAN with BGP EVPN

Explanation:

VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN) with BGP EVPN (Ethernet VPN) is a modern overlay protocol that allows Layer 2 connectivity to be extended over Layer 3 networks while supporting multi-tenant segmentation and reducing flooding. This is critical for large enterprise data centers and cloud environments, where scalable, flexible network architectures are required.

VXLAN Overlay:

VXLAN encapsulates Layer 2 Ethernet frames in UDP packets, allowing them to traverse a Layer 3 infrastructure. VXLAN Tunnel Endpoints (VTEPs) perform encapsulation and decapsulation at network edges, enabling devices across different subnets or physical locations to communicate as if they were on the same Layer 2 segment.

BGP EVPN Control Plane:

BGP EVPN advertises MAC-to-VTEP mappings and VXLAN Network Identifiers (VNIs) across the network. This eliminates unknown unicast flooding, reduces CPU utilization on VTEPs, and improves network scalability. Each VNI represents a tenant or application, enabling multi-tenant segmentation while maintaining isolation between traffic streams.

Active-Active Multi-Homing:

VXLAN with EVPN supports active-active multi-homing, providing redundancy, high availability, and load balancing. This ensures optimal utilization of network resources and continuous service availability in case of link or node failures.

Comparison with Other Options:

VLANs provide limited Layer 2 segmentation but rely on flooding unknown traffic and are constrained by 4,096 IDs.

GRE tunnels encapsulate traffic but do not support multi-tenant awareness or MAC distribution.

STP prevents loops but does not provide overlays, multi-tenant segmentation, or efficient MAC distribution.

Operational Benefits:

VXLAN with BGP EVPN enables scalable, secure, and high-performance Layer 2 extensions over Layer 3 networks. It allows enterprises to expand their networks without redesigning the physical infrastructure, supports seamless workload mobility, and integrates with SDN controllers for centralized policy enforcement and monitoring. The deterministic control plane simplifies troubleshooting, reduces network congestion, and ensures predictable performance.

In conclusion, VXLAN with BGP EVPN allows Layer 2 networks to extend over Layer 3 infrastructures, supports multi-tenant segmentation, and reduces flooding, making option C correct.

Question 170:

Which Cisco solution provides centralized network automation, assurance, and policy-based management across 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 centralized management platform that provides automation, assurance, and policy-based management across enterprise wired and wireless networks. As the core of Cisco’s intent-based networking solution, DNA Center translates business intent into network configurations while continuously monitoring network performance and enforcing policies.

Automation:

DNA Center enables centralized provisioning of devices, VLANs, SSIDs, QoS policies, and software images. Administrators can define policies based on user roles, device types, or applications. These policies are automatically enforced across all devices, ensuring consistent access control, security, and operational efficiency.

Assurance:

Telemetry, analytics, and AI/ML capabilities provide real-time monitoring of network performance. DNA Center can detect anomalies, predict potential failures, and perform root-cause analysis to resolve issues proactively. This minimizes downtime and improves the end-user experience.

Policy-Based Management:

DNA Center integrates with Cisco ISE to provide identity-based access control and dynamic segmentation. Policies follow users and devices as they move across network segments, ensuring consistent security enforcement. Integration with SD-WAN and SD-Access allows centralized policy management, simplified troubleshooting, and end-to-end network visibility.

Comparison with Other Options:

Cisco ISE enforces identity-based policies but lacks full network automation and assurance.

NetFlow provides traffic visibility but does not enforce policies or automate configurations.

Prime Infrastructure offers monitoring and management but lacks AI-driven assurance and intent-based automation.

Operational Benefits:

DNA Center simplifies network operations, enhances security through automated policy enforcement, and ensures predictable network performance. It provides a single-pane-of-glass for managing, monitoring, and troubleshooting enterprise networks, reducing operational overhead while maintaining high reliability and security.

In conclusion, Cisco DNA Center provides centralized network automation, assurance, and policy-based management across enterprise wired and wireless networks, making option B correct.

Question 171:

Which technology allows enterprise networks to implement segmentation policies that dynamically follow users and devices across wired and wireless networks?

A) VLAN
B) Cisco ISE with Security Group Tags (SGTs)
C) OSPF
D) MPLS VPN

Answer:

B) Cisco ISE with Security Group Tags (SGTs)

Explanation:

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) with Security Group Tags (SGTs) provides dynamic network segmentation, a cornerstone of modern enterprise security. This capability allows policies to follow users and devices as they move across the network, ensuring consistent access control and isolation regardless of the physical or logical location. Dynamic segmentation addresses the limitations of traditional static segmentation, which relies solely on VLANs or IP subnets, making it essential for enterprises with mobile users, BYOD devices, and diverse application requirements.

Security Group Tags (SGTs):

SGTs are logical identifiers assigned to users, devices, or workloads based on their role, device type, or other attributes. When a device authenticates through ISE (using 802.1X, MAB, or web authentication), it receives an SGT that determines its network access privileges. Network devices enforce these privileges by mapping SGTs to access control policies, which can include ACLs, QoS policies, and VLAN assignments.

Dynamic Policy Enforcement:

As users and devices move across access points, switches, or locations, their SGTs remain consistent, and the network automatically enforces the corresponding policies. This eliminates the need for manual reconfiguration, reduces administrative overhead, and ensures that security policies are applied consistently across both wired and wireless networks. For example, an employee moving from one office floor to another maintains access to enterprise applications without interruption, while a guest user remains restricted to internet access.

Integration with SD-Access:

SGTs integrate seamlessly with Cisco Software-Defined Access (SD-Access), creating a fabric-based network where policies are enforced at the edge. The fabric control plane propagates SGT information throughout the network, enabling consistent enforcement, seamless mobility, and policy-driven segmentation. This ensures that sensitive data and applications are protected regardless of device location.

Operational Benefits:

Dynamic segmentation enhances security, operational efficiency, and compliance. Enterprises can implement micro-segmentation, isolating applications and workloads based on their function or sensitivity. SGTs simplify network changes, support guest access, and allow IT teams to respond quickly to emerging threats or compliance requirements. Real-time monitoring and reporting provide visibility into who accessed which resources, when, and from which location, aiding in auditing and troubleshooting.

Comparison with Other Options:

VLANs provide static segmentation and cannot dynamically follow users or devices.

OSPF is a routing protocol with no role in policy enforcement or segmentation.

MPLS VPN provides segmentation at the WAN level but does not enforce dynamic policies within the enterprise network.

In conclusion, Cisco ISE with Security Group Tags (SGTs) allows enterprise networks to implement segmentation policies that dynamically follow users and devices across wired and wireless networks, making option B correct.

Question 172:

Which feature in Cisco enterprise networks enables high-availability wireless deployment with seamless roaming and uninterrupted connectivity?

A) DHCP Snooping
B) Fast Roaming (802.11r)
C) VLAN Hopping
D) Port Security

Answer:

B) Fast Roaming (802.11r)

Explanation:

Fast Roaming, defined in the IEEE 802.11r standard, is a feature in enterprise wireless networks that enables seamless handoff of client devices between access points, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and high availability for mobile users. This is particularly important in high-density environments, such as corporate campuses, hospitals, or warehouses, where users frequently move between access points while using latency-sensitive applications like VoIP, video conferencing, or real-time collaboration tools.

How 802.11r Works:

802.11r allows client devices to pre-authenticate with neighboring access points before initiating a handoff. The protocol exchanges security keys and credentials in advance, enabling the client to roam without performing a full authentication process each time. This reduces handoff latency from hundreds of milliseconds to a few milliseconds, maintaining application performance and preventing dropped sessions.

Integration with Security:

Fast Roaming integrates with WPA2/WPA3 Enterprise security, ensuring that handoffs remain secure without compromising network access policies. It also supports 802.1X authentication, meaning that user and device credentials are validated during the initial connection and then securely propagated to other access points. Policies enforced by Cisco ISE or wireless controllers remain consistent throughout the roaming process, ensuring both security and compliance.

Benefits for High-Density Deployments:

In environments with large numbers of mobile users, 802.11r reduces network congestion by avoiding repeated authentication processes. It minimizes latency, jitter, and packet loss, which is critical for real-time applications. Additionally, it simplifies the management of wireless networks by reducing connectivity-related support tickets and improving the overall user experience.

Operational Considerations:

Fast Roaming requires configuration on both access points and wireless controllers. Network administrators must ensure that the security keys, VLAN assignments, and QoS policies are consistently applied across the network to prevent connectivity issues. Compatibility with client devices must also be considered, as not all devices support 802.11r, though most modern enterprise devices do.

Comparison with Other Options:

DHCP Snooping is a security feature to prevent rogue DHCP servers, not related to roaming.

VLAN Hopping is a security vulnerability, not a feature.

Port Security limits MAC addresses per port and prevents unauthorized access but does not provide seamless mobility.

In conclusion, Fast Roaming (802.11r) enables high-availability wireless deployment with seamless roaming and uninterrupted connectivity, making option B correct.

Question 173:

Which Cisco solution provides end-to-end visibility, proactive assurance, and AI/ML-driven network optimization across enterprise 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 the enterprise-grade solution for end-to-end visibility, proactive assurance, and AI/ML-driven network optimization. It is a core component of Cisco’s intent-based networking strategy, providing centralized control, monitoring, and automation for both wired and wireless networks. DNA Center transforms traditional networks into intelligent, policy-driven environments capable of self-optimization and proactive problem resolution.

End-to-End Visibility:

DNA Center collects telemetry data from all network devices, including switches, routers, access points, and wireless controllers. This data is analyzed to provide a holistic view of network health, device performance, client connectivity, application performance, and traffic patterns. Administrators can drill down into granular details or view aggregated metrics, ensuring rapid identification of performance bottlenecks or configuration issues.

Proactive Assurance:

Using continuous monitoring and analytics, DNA Center identifies anomalies, predicts potential failures, and triggers alerts before issues impact end users. Root-cause analysis is automated, enabling IT teams to resolve problems quickly and efficiently. Assurance also includes performance baselines and SLA verification, ensuring that enterprise applications, cloud services, and IoT devices receive consistent service levels.

AI/ML-Driven Optimization:

DNA Center leverages machine learning algorithms to analyze historical and real-time network data. This enables predictive insights, anomaly detection, and automated remediation suggestions. For example, the system can identify clients experiencing poor connectivity, recommend access point reallocation, or optimize traffic flows to prevent congestion. Over time, the AI/ML engine continuously refines its recommendations to improve network performance and reliability.

Policy-Based Management:

DNA Center integrates with Cisco ISE for identity-based policies and SD-Access fabrics, enabling dynamic segmentation and consistent enforcement across the network. Network policies follow users and devices, ensuring secure and predictable access without manual intervention. Automated provisioning, configuration, and software updates reduce operational complexity and human error.

Comparison with Other Options:

Cisco ISE focuses on identity-based access control but lacks proactive AI-driven optimization.

NetFlow provides traffic visibility but does not automate or assure network performance.

Prime Infrastructure offers device monitoring and management but lacks AI/ML-driven analytics and intent-based networking capabilities.

Operational Benefits:

DNA Center enhances operational efficiency by consolidating monitoring, automation, and assurance into a single platform. Enterprises benefit from reduced downtime, improved security posture, and consistent user experience across wired and wireless networks. It simplifies troubleshooting, accelerates deployment, and ensures that policies are applied consistently across all devices, making it essential for modern enterprise networks.

In conclusion, Cisco DNA Center provides end-to-end visibility, proactive assurance, and AI/ML-driven network optimization across enterprise networks, making option B correct.

Question 174:

Which routing protocol allows enterprises to implement scalable, hierarchical networks with route summarization and loop-free topology using link-state advertisements?

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

Answer:

B) OSPF

Explanation:

Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) is a link-state routing protocol widely used in enterprise networks for scalable, hierarchical design with loop-free topology and support for route summarization. OSPF provides rapid convergence and deterministic routing, making it suitable for large campus, data center, and WAN deployments.

Link-State Operation:

OSPF routers maintain a Link-State Database (LSDB) that reflects the network topology. Each router advertises its directly connected links to all routers within the same area using Link-State Advertisements (LSAs). This ensures that all routers have an identical view of the network, allowing the SPF algorithm to compute the shortest path tree from each router to every destination.

Hierarchical Network Design:

OSPF divides the network into areas, with Area 0 (backbone) serving as the central point for inter-area routing. This design limits the scope of topology changes, reduces LSDB size, and minimizes SPF recalculations. Areas can be configured as stub or NSSA to further reduce routing overhead and optimize resource utilization.

Route Summarization:

OSPF supports summarization at area boundaries, allowing multiple routes to be represented as a single summary route. This reduces routing table size, improves convergence, and simplifies network management. Summarization also enhances scalability for large enterprise networks with hundreds or thousands of subnets.

Loop-Free Topology:

OSPF’s link-state operation ensures loop-free paths by having each router compute its own SPF tree independently. Unlike distance-vector protocols, which rely on periodic updates and are prone to routing loops, OSPF maintains accurate, real-time topology information, reducing the risk of loops and suboptimal routing.

Comparison with Other Protocols:

RIP is distance-vector, slow to converge, and limited to 15 hops.

EIGRP is Cisco-proprietary and lacks open-standard interoperability.

BGP is optimized for inter-domain routing and is not ideal for intra-enterprise hierarchical networks requiring fast convergence.

Operational Benefits:

OSPF allows enterprises to build scalable, stable networks with predictable routing behavior. Its hierarchical design, loop-free topology, and route summarization capabilities reduce network complexity, improve convergence times, and enhance operational efficiency. OSPF also supports IPv4 and IPv6, authentication, and traffic engineering options, making it versatile for modern enterprise requirements.

In conclusion, OSPF allows enterprises to implement scalable, hierarchical networks with route summarization and loop-free topology using link-state advertisements, making option B correct.

Question 175:

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

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

Answer:

D) 802.11ac

Explanation:

802.11ac, also called Wi-Fi 5, is the enterprise-grade wireless standard designed to deliver high throughput, efficiency, and reliability in the 5 GHz band. It is particularly well-suited for high-density deployments in corporate offices, auditoriums, hospitals, and other environments with many simultaneous users and devices.

MU-MIMO:

802.11ac supports Multi-User MIMO (MU-MIMO), which allows the access point to communicate simultaneously with multiple clients. This reduces contention, increases throughput, and improves overall efficiency for high-density wireless environments. It differs from single-user MIMO in previous standards, where the access point could communicate with only one client at a time.

High Throughput:

802.11ac supports wider channel bandwidths (up to 160 MHz) and higher-order modulation (256-QAM), enabling faster data rates. These features allow enterprise networks to accommodate bandwidth-intensive applications such as video conferencing, cloud collaboration, and streaming media. Beamforming further enhances signal quality and coverage by directing RF energy toward specific clients.

5 GHz Band Advantages:

The 5 GHz band offers more non-overlapping channels than the crowded 2.4 GHz band, reducing interference and providing better performance in dense deployments. Wider channels and less interference make 802.11ac ideal for environments with many devices, ensuring reliable connectivity for mobile users and IoT devices.

Integration with Controllers:

Enterprise wireless controllers manage SSIDs, policies, security, and QoS, ensuring predictable performance and seamless roaming. Features like 802.11r fast roaming, 802.11k neighbor reporting, and 802.11v network-assisted roaming complement 802.11ac, providing high availability and uninterrupted connectivity for mobile users.

Comparison with Other Standards:

802.11b and 802.11g operate in the 2.4 GHz band with lower throughput and higher interference susceptibility.

802.11n supports 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands but lacks MU-MIMO and provides lower throughput than 802.11ac.

Operational Benefits:

802.11ac ensures high-performance wireless connectivity in enterprise environments, supporting mobile devices, IoT, and latency-sensitive applications. Its MU-MIMO capability, higher modulation rates, and efficient spectrum usage enable networks to scale without sacrificing performance, reliability, or security.

In conclusion, 802.11ac provides high throughput in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and is suitable for high-density enterprise deployments, making option D correct.

Question 176:

Which technology allows enterprise networks to create scalable overlays, providing Layer 2 connectivity over a Layer 3 infrastructure while supporting multi-tenant segmentation?

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

Answer:

C) VXLAN with BGP EVPN

Explanation:

VXLAN with BGP EVPN is a widely adopted technology in modern enterprise and cloud networks because it provides a scalable solution for extending Layer 2 networks over a Layer 3 infrastructure while maintaining tenant isolation. Traditional VLANs are limited to 4096 IDs and rely on flooding to learn MAC addresses, which can cause performance issues in large-scale data centers. VXLAN addresses this limitation by using a 24-bit VXLAN Network Identifier (VNI), which allows for over 16 million logical networks, making it suitable for large multi-tenant environments. BGP EVPN acts as the control plane for VXLAN overlays, advertising MAC-to-VTEP mappings and VXLAN VNIs across all VTEPs in the network. This eliminates the need for unknown unicast flooding and provides deterministic Layer 2 forwarding across the Layer 3 underlay. In addition, VXLAN with EVPN supports active-active multi-homing, which allows multiple VTEPs to serve the same subnet, providing redundancy and load balancing. The encapsulation process uses UDP, enabling VXLAN traffic to traverse the existing Layer 3 network without any modifications. Security is maintained through tenant isolation, and each VNI ensures that traffic belonging to one tenant cannot leak into another. Unlike GRE tunnels, which provide point-to-point Layer 3 encapsulation without multi-tenant support or control-plane learning, VXLAN EVPN offers both scalability and efficient MAC distribution. STP is designed to prevent Layer 2 loops and cannot provide overlay networks or multi-tenant segmentation. VLANs alone cannot provide Layer 2 extensions across geographically dispersed data centers, nor can they reduce flooding at scale. Operationally, VXLAN with BGP EVPN enables large enterprises to expand networks, provide workload mobility, optimize resource utilization, and simplify troubleshooting by maintaining a predictable control plane for MAC and IP address mappings. It also integrates seamlessly with Software Defined Networking solutions such as Cisco ACI and SD-Access fabrics, enabling policy-driven automation and centralized network management. Overall, VXLAN with BGP EVPN addresses the limitations of traditional Layer 2 designs, offering scalability, segmentation, high availability, and operational simplicity, making it the ideal solution for modern enterprise overlays.

Question 177:

Which Cisco solution provides centralized identity-based access control, dynamic policy enforcement, and endpoint compliance verification for enterprise networks?

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

Answer:

B) Cisco ISE

Explanation:

Cisco Identity Services Engine (ISE) is a key component of enterprise network security, providing centralized identity-based access control, dynamic policy enforcement, and endpoint compliance verification for both wired and wireless networks. ISE acts as a central AAA server, supporting authentication, authorization, and accounting for users, devices, and endpoints. Authentication can be performed using 802.1X for port-based access control, MAC Authentication Bypass for devices without 802.1X capability, or VPN authentication for remote users. Once a device or user is authenticated, ISE applies policies based on role, device type, location, and security posture, dynamically controlling network access. Endpoint compliance verification ensures that devices meet security requirements such as antivirus protection, OS patch levels, firewall configuration, and encryption before granting network access. Non-compliant devices may be redirected to remediation networks or quarantined, reducing the risk of compromised endpoints connecting to critical infrastructure. Cisco ISE also supports multi-tenant environments through Security Group Tags (SGTs) and role-based access policies, allowing administrators to segment traffic based on department, user role, or device type while maintaining strict isolation between groups. Detailed logging and reporting provide insights for auditing, compliance, and forensic investigations, and integration with SIEM platforms allows real-time detection of policy violations or suspicious activity. Unlike Cisco DNA Center, which focuses on automation and assurance, ISE specializes in identity-based policy enforcement. NetFlow provides traffic analytics and visibility but does not enforce access policies, while Prime Infrastructure focuses on device monitoring and management without dynamic policy enforcement. Operationally, ISE reduces administrative overhead by centralizing policy management, ensures consistent enforcement across the enterprise, and supports seamless user mobility. By integrating with SD-Access fabrics, ISE allows policies to dynamically follow users and devices as they move across the network, enhancing security, operational efficiency, and compliance. This makes Cisco ISE the solution of choice for centralized identity-based access control and endpoint compliance enforcement in enterprise environments.

Question 178:

Which routing protocol is recommended for scalable, hierarchical enterprise networks, providing fast convergence and open-standard interoperability across multi-vendor environments?

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

Answer:

B) OSPF

Explanation:

Open Shortest Path First (OSPF) is a link-state routing protocol commonly used in enterprise networks due to its scalability, hierarchical design, fast convergence, and interoperability with equipment from multiple vendors. OSPF divides the network into areas, with Area 0 serving as the backbone. This hierarchical design reduces routing overhead, confines link-state updates to affected areas, and improves network stability and scalability. Each router maintains a Link-State Database containing the network topology, which is identical for all routers within the same area. The Shortest Path First (SPF) algorithm calculates optimal paths for all destinations, ensuring loop-free, efficient routing. OSPF provides rapid convergence because only routers affected by topology changes recompute the SPF tree, minimizing downtime for applications. Route summarization at area boundaries further reduces routing table size and improves network performance. OSPF supports both IPv4 (OSPFv2) and IPv6 (OSPFv3), allowing dual-stack deployments in modern enterprise networks. Authentication mechanisms such as MD5 or SHA protect against unauthorized route injections, enhancing network security. Compared to RIP, which has slow convergence and a limited hop count, OSPF is far more suitable for large enterprise networks. EIGRP offers fast convergence but is Cisco-proprietary, limiting interoperability in multi-vendor environments. BGP is primarily used for inter-domain routing and does not provide fast intra-enterprise convergence. Operationally, OSPF allows enterprises to implement scalable, predictable, and loop-free networks with hierarchical design, summarization, and robust security. It ensures that routing decisions remain deterministic, reduces CPU and memory utilization on routers, and facilitates troubleshooting by maintaining a clear, area-based topology. This combination of scalability, fast convergence, and interoperability makes OSPF the preferred choice for enterprise routing.

Question 179:

Which WAN technology provides secure, multi-tenant connectivity, supports traffic engineering, and enables guaranteed Quality of Service for enterprise applications?

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

Answer:

B) MPLS VPN

Explanation:

Multiprotocol Label Switching Virtual Private Network (MPLS VPN) is a WAN technology widely used by enterprises to achieve secure, multi-tenant connectivity with guaranteed Quality of Service (QoS) and traffic engineering capabilities. MPLS uses label-based forwarding, allowing packets to be switched through the network based on labels rather than traditional IP routing. This reduces processing overhead on routers, accelerates packet forwarding, and allows deterministic traffic paths that are crucial for latency-sensitive applications. MPLS VPN supports multiple tenants through Virtual Routing and Forwarding (VRF) instances, which create separate routing tables for each tenant, allowing overlapping IP address spaces while maintaining traffic isolation. The ability to define explicit paths and apply traffic engineering policies ensures that critical applications, such as VoIP, video conferencing, or ERP systems, receive the necessary bandwidth and minimal latency. MPLS also provides redundancy and failover capabilities, ensuring high availability across geographically dispersed enterprise sites. Compared to DSL, which is limited in bandwidth and lacks traffic engineering, or Frame Relay, which is legacy and offers minimal QoS support, MPLS VPN provides a scalable, flexible, and secure WAN solution. Metro Ethernet offers high-speed connectivity but lacks native traffic engineering, QoS guarantees, or multi-tenant segmentation. MPLS VPN can also integrate with SD-WAN solutions, enabling enterprises to combine MPLS and Internet links while maintaining security, performance, and policy enforcement. Operationally, MPLS VPN allows large enterprises to implement robust, secure, and scalable WAN networks with predictable performance and multi-tenant support. Its combination of traffic engineering, QoS guarantees, and isolation ensures that critical enterprise applications perform reliably across distributed sites. This makes MPLS VPN the optimal choice for enterprise WAN connectivity.

Question 180:

Which wireless standard operates in the 5 GHz band, supports MU-MIMO, and provides high throughput for high-density enterprise deployments?

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

Answer:

D) 802.11ac

Explanation:

802.11ac, known as Wi-Fi 5, is the wireless standard designed to provide high throughput, efficiency, and reliable performance in enterprise environments. Operating in the 5 GHz band, it benefits from reduced interference and more non-overlapping channels compared to the crowded 2.4 GHz band. One of the hallmark features of 802.11ac is Multi-User Multiple Input Multiple Output (MU-MIMO), which allows the access point to communicate simultaneously with multiple client devices. This dramatically improves efficiency, reduces latency, and ensures predictable performance in high-density deployments such as corporate campuses, auditoriums, hospitals, and warehouses. 802.11ac supports wider channel bandwidths, up to 160 MHz, and higher-order modulation (256-QAM), enabling significantly higher data rates than previous standards. Beamforming directs RF energy toward client devices, enhancing coverage, signal quality, and reliability. Integration with enterprise wireless controllers allows for seamless roaming, policy enforcement, and QoS application, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity for mobile devices and latency-sensitive applications like VoIP and video streaming. In comparison, 802.11b and 802.11g operate in the 2.4 GHz band with lower throughput and higher susceptibility to interference. 802.11n provides improved performance and supports both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz but lacks MU-MIMO and delivers lower overall throughput than 802.11ac. Operationally, 802.11ac allows enterprises to deploy scalable wireless networks capable of handling a large number of clients without sacrificing performance or reliability. Its high throughput, MU-MIMO support, and efficient spectrum utilization make it ideal for modern enterprise environments with high-density wireless demand.