Cisco 300-715 Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine (300-715 SISE) Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set4 Q61-80

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Question 61

Which ISE feature allows the assignment of access policies based on both user identity and device compliance status?

A) Posture
B) Profiling
C) Authorization Policy
D) TrustSec

Answer: C) Authorization Policy

Explanation:

C) Authorization Policy is the correct answer. Cisco ISE’s Authorization Policy is the key mechanism that determines what access an endpoint receives based on multiple criteria, including user identity, device attributes, and compliance status determined by posture. Authorization policies operate in conjunction with the authentication process, ensuring that only validated users and devices gain access appropriate to their role and compliance level.

A) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates the health and security compliance of an endpoint but does not directly assign access rights. It is the input for the authorization policy to make decisions, but it does not enforce access by itself.

B) Profiling is incorrect because profiling identifies and classifies devices based on type, operating system, and manufacturer. While profiling provides critical context for authorization policies, it does not assign access directly.

C) Authorization Policy is correct because it combines the inputs from authentication, posture, and profiling to enforce rules. For example, a corporate laptop that is fully compliant may receive full access to internal resources, whereas a BYOD device with outdated antivirus software may be restricted to a remediation VLAN. Authorization policies allow administrators to define role-based or rule-based access, integrate with TrustSec for SGT assignment, and dynamically adjust access depending on the endpoint’s posture and identity.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec is used for network segmentation via Security Group Tags (SGTs) but does not itself decide access based on user identity or compliance. TrustSec enforcement relies on inputs from authorization policies.

Authorization policies provide enterprises with a flexible, scalable, and dynamic method to enforce security. They are central to ISE’s ability to control access across wired, wireless, VPN, and BYOD environments. By incorporating identity, posture, and device profiling information, authorization policies ensure that endpoints receive only the access appropriate for their context, greatly reducing risk while maintaining user productivity. Administrators can implement complex rules, such as time-of-day restrictions, location-based access, or dynamic VLAN assignment, all through well-structured authorization policies. Authorization policies are processed by Policy Service Nodes (PSNs) in real-time, making them the backbone of operational access control within Cisco ISE deployments.

Question 62

Which Cisco ISE protocol is primarily used for administrative access to network devices with granular command authorization?

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

Answer: B) TACACS+

Explanation:

B) TACACS+ is the correct answer. TACACS+ (Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus) is used in Cisco ISE for AAA administrative access to network devices. Unlike RADIUS, which is used for endpoint authentication, TACACS+ separates authentication, authorization, and accounting, allowing administrators to enforce command-level permissions on routers, switches, and firewalls. When a network administrator logs in to a device, TACACS+ validates their credentials, authorizes the specific commands they can execute, and logs all activity for auditing purposes.

A) RADIUS is incorrect because RADIUS is primarily used for endpoint authentication and authorization, such as connecting laptops or mobile devices to wired or wireless networks. While RADIUS supports AAA, it does not provide granular command authorization for administrative tasks.

B) TACACS+ is correct because it enables fine-grained control over administrative privileges. For example, junior administrators may be restricted to read-only commands, while senior engineers may have full access. This separation ensures operational security and accountability. Additionally, TACACS+ logs all executed commands, providing a detailed audit trail, which is essential for compliance and forensic analysis.

C) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is a monitoring protocol used to collect statistics and monitor device health. It does not perform authentication or authorization of administrative users.

D) HTTP is incorrect because HTTP is used for web-based interfaces, such as BYOD and guest portals, and does not provide network device AAA.

TACACS+ is essential in enterprise deployments to enforce secure and auditable administrative access. By integrating TACACS+ with ISE, organizations ensure that all administrative operations are logged, roles are clearly defined, and unauthorized commands are prevented. This protects the network from both accidental misconfigurations and malicious activity, making TACACS+ a critical component of ISE security architecture.

Question 63

Which ISE node type is responsible for policy enforcement and processing authentication requests in real-time?

A) Policy Administration Node (PAN)
B) Policy Service Node (PSN)
C) Monitoring and Troubleshooting Node (MnT)
D) Guest Node

Answer: B) Policy Service Node (PSN)

Explanation:

B) Policy Service Node (PSN) is the correct answer. In Cisco ISE, the PSN is the enforcement point responsible for real-time processing of RADIUS and TACACS+ requests. PSNs receive authentication requests from network devices, evaluate authorization policies, check posture compliance, apply profiling information, and enforce the resulting access decisions. This real-time enforcement ensures that endpoints and users receive network access appropriate to their role, compliance status, and device type.

A) PAN is incorrect because the Policy Administration Node is responsible for configuration, policy creation, and distribution. PAN does not process real-time requests or enforce network access.

B) PSN is correct because it is the operational node that interacts directly with endpoints. PSNs are horizontally scalable, allowing ISE to handle high volumes of authentication requests. They also integrate with monitoring and troubleshooting nodes for logging purposes.

C) MnT is incorrect because Monitoring and Troubleshooting nodes are used for reporting and auditing. They do not enforce network policies in real-time but collect logs from PSNs and other ISE nodes.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes provide self-service portals for temporary users and do not enforce general network policies for authenticated endpoints.

PSNs are vital for distributed and high-availability ISE deployments. They ensure that policy decisions are applied consistently, posture results are enforced, and profiling data is utilized effectively. PSNs also handle dynamic assignment of VLANs, ACLs, and Security Group Tags (SGTs) for TrustSec, making them central to operational access control within the ISE architecture. In large networks, multiple PSNs can be deployed to ensure load balancing and redundancy.

Question 64

Which Cisco ISE feature evaluates endpoint security posture and redirects non-compliant devices to remediation portals?

A) Profiling
B) Posture
C) Authorization Policy
D) BYOD

Answer: B) Posture

Explanation:

B) Posture is the correct answer. Posture assessment in Cisco ISE evaluates endpoint security compliance before granting full network access. Posture checks include verifying antivirus presence, firewall configuration, operating system patch levels, and other security requirements. If an endpoint fails these checks, ISE can dynamically restrict network access or redirect the device to a remediation portal. Users can then update antivirus definitions, enable firewalls, or install missing patches to achieve compliance. Posture ensures that endpoints do not introduce vulnerabilities into the network and helps organizations maintain regulatory compliance.

A) Profiling is incorrect because profiling identifies device type, manufacturer, and operating system but does not evaluate security compliance. Profiling data feeds into authorization policies but does not enforce health-based access.

B) Posture is correct because it assesses security and enforces remediation. Posture can be agent-based, requiring software installed on endpoints, or agentless, evaluating compliance without client software. Once a device meets posture requirements, the authorization policy applies full access rights.

C) Authorization Policy is incorrect because authorization policies enforce access decisions but rely on posture input to determine whether an endpoint is compliant. Authorization cannot assess security itself.

D) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD handles device onboarding and registration but does not evaluate compliance unless integrated with posture.

Posture is a key security control in ISE deployments. By integrating posture with authorization policies, administrators can enforce dynamic, context-aware access based on device compliance. For instance, a non-compliant corporate laptop can be placed in a remediation VLAN until updates are applied. Posture helps prevent the spread of malware and ensures that endpoints meet organizational security requirements. Posture also enables flexible compliance enforcement for BYOD devices, IoT endpoints, and guest systems, making it critical for maintaining network integrity in diverse environments.

Question 65

Which ISE feature enables secure onboarding of employee-owned devices, including certificate deployment and Wi-Fi configuration?

A) BYOD
B) Guest Access
C) TrustSec
D) Profiling

Answer: A) BYOD

Explanation:
A) BYOD is the correct answer. Cisco ISE BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) enables employees to securely onboard personal devices to the corporate network. BYOD workflows automate registration, device authentication, certificate deployment, and Wi-Fi configuration. This process ensures that personal devices can securely access corporate resources without manual IT intervention. BYOD workflows can also integrate posture assessment to ensure that devices meet minimum security requirements before being granted full access.

A) BYOD is correct because it streamlines the onboarding process, reduces administrative overhead, and ensures secure access. For example, employees can register a personal laptop via a self-service portal. ISE then deploys digital certificates for 802.1X authentication, configures Wi-Fi profiles, and evaluates device compliance. Once the device passes posture checks, authorization policies determine the appropriate level of access.

B) Guest Access is incorrect because it provides temporary network access for contractors or visitors and does not handle onboarding of employee-owned devices.

C) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces identity-based access using Security Group Tags (SGTs), but does not onboard devices or deploy certificates.

D) Profiling is incorrect because profiling identifies device type and operating system but does not provide onboarding workflows or certificate deployment.

BYOD ensures secure, scalable access for personal devices while maintaining corporate security policies. It integrates registration, authentication, Wi-Fi provisioning, and posture compliance, providing a seamless user experience while protecting the network. Enterprises benefit from reduced IT effort, improved user productivity, and consistent policy enforcement across corporate and personal endpoints.

Question 66

Which ISE node type provides self-service registration portals and sponsor approval workflows for temporary users?

A) Policy Administration Node (PAN)
B) Policy Service Node (PSN)
C) Guest Node
D) Monitoring and Troubleshooting Node (MnT)

Answer: C) Guest Node

Explanation:

C) Guest Node is the correct answer. Guest Nodes in Cisco ISE provide secure portals for temporary network users, such as contractors, visitors, and vendors. These portals allow users to self-register or request network access that requires sponsor approval. Once registered, users receive credentials and are assigned network access permissions based on defined policies, including VLAN assignment, time-based access restrictions, and access control lists (ACLs) to isolate guest traffic from corporate resources.

A) PAN is incorrect because the Policy Administration Node handles configuration and policy distribution but does not provide portals or manage temporary user access. PAN defines the policies that the Guest Node will enforce but does not itself manage guest registration.

B) PSN is incorrect because Policy Service Nodes enforce authentication, authorization, and posture policies in real-time but do not provide self-service registration workflows. They may be used by Guest Nodes to validate credentials and enforce policies, but they are not the primary interface for guest users.

C) Guest Node is correct because it is specifically designed to provide a complete workflow for temporary access. Organizations can configure multiple Guest Portals, with customizable branding and language support, allowing for a seamless experience for guests. Sponsors, typically internal employees, can approve access requests, add expiration dates, and define restrictions. Guest Nodes also integrate with authorization policies to determine what resources a guest can access and for how long.

D) MnT is incorrect because Monitoring and Troubleshooting nodes aggregate logs, generate reports, and provide visibility for troubleshooting but do not offer registration portals or guest management.

Guest Nodes are critical in environments where temporary access is frequently required. They enable secure, auditable access for visitors, reducing administrative burden while maintaining network security. Through Guest Nodes, organizations can enforce corporate policies, maintain compliance with regulatory requirements, and prevent unauthorized access. By integrating with PSNs and authorization policies, Guest Nodes ensure that guests receive appropriate access levels without exposing sensitive resources. Administrators can monitor guest activity and generate reports for auditing purposes. Overall, Guest Nodes provide a structured and secure approach to temporary access, making them an essential component of Cisco ISE deployments.

Question 67

Which ISE feature enforces role-based access to network resources using Security Group Tags (SGTs)?

A) BYOD
B) Posture
C) TrustSec
D) Profiling

Answer: C) TrustSec

Explanation:

C) TrustSec is the correct answer. Cisco TrustSec is an identity-based network access control solution that leverages Security Group Tags (SGTs) to enforce segmentation and policy-based access to resources. TrustSec replaces traditional IP-based access control with identity and role-based enforcement, making it easier to scale, maintain, and dynamically apply policies across the network.

A) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on onboarding personal devices, including certificate deployment and Wi-Fi configuration, but does not handle network segmentation or role-based enforcement.

B) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates endpoint security compliance. While posture results may influence TrustSec policy assignment, posture itself does not assign SGTs or enforce segmentation.

C) TrustSec is correct because it assigns SGTs to users, devices, or endpoints. SGTs determine which resources can be accessed and enforce access control at Layer 2 and Layer 3. For example, finance department devices may receive an SGT that allows access to accounting servers, while guest devices may be restricted to internet-only access. TrustSec integrates with authorization policies in ISE, which determine SGT assignments based on user role, device type, compliance status, and location. Network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls enforce TrustSec policies, making network access dynamic, context-aware, and scalable.

D) Profiling is incorrect because profiling identifies devices and collects information about endpoints, which is used to inform policies, but it does not enforce access through SGTs.

TrustSec is critical for modern networks where traditional VLANs and IP-based ACLs are insufficient. By combining SGTs with ISE’s authorization policies, administrators can enforce granular, role-based access across large enterprise networks. TrustSec also simplifies network segmentation, reduces configuration complexity, and enhances security by tying access directly to user identity, role, and compliance. This is particularly valuable in BYOD, guest access, and IoT environments, where dynamic and scalable policy enforcement is necessary.

Question 68

Which Cisco ISE protocol is used to provide authentication, authorization, and accounting for wired and wireless endpoints?

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

Answer: A) RADIUS

Explanation:

A) RADIUS is the correct answer . RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) is the standard protocol used by Cisco ISE to authenticate and authorize endpoints on both wired and wireless networks. When a user or device connects, the network access device sends a RADIUS request to ISE to validate credentials, enforce authorization policies, and apply access restrictions. RADIUS also supports accounting, allowing ISE to log session details for auditing and compliance purposes.

A) RADIUS is correct because it provides real-time AAA for endpoints. Authorization decisions may include VLAN assignment, downloadable ACLs, or dynamic SGT assignments for TrustSec. RADIUS allows ISE to enforce contextual access based on user role, device type, posture compliance, and location. For example, a corporate laptop may receive full access while a guest device is redirected to a portal. RADIUS is widely supported across switches, wireless controllers, and VPN devices, making it the primary protocol for endpoint network access.

B) TACACS+ is incorrect because TACACS+ is designed for administrative access to network devices and does not handle general endpoint access.

C) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is a monitoring protocol used for network device statistics, not for authenticating or authorizing endpoints.

D) HTTP is incorrect because HTTP is used for web-based portals, such as BYOD registration or guest self-service, but it is not used to enforce network access in real-time.

RADIUS is a core component of Cisco ISE architecture because it bridges the gap between network access devices and policy enforcement. It ensures secure authentication, enforces authorization policies dynamically, and provides comprehensive accounting for auditing and compliance. By leveraging RADIUS, ISE delivers a scalable, flexible, and secure framework for controlling access to corporate resources, supporting wired, wireless, and VPN environments.

Question 69

Which ISE component is responsible for collecting logs, generating reports, and providing visibility for troubleshooting?

A) PSN
B) PAN
C) MnT
D) Guest Node

Answer: C) MnT

Explanation:

C) MnT is the correct answer. Monitoring and Troubleshooting (MnT) nodes in Cisco ISE are responsible for aggregating logs from all authentication, authorization, posture, BYOD, and guest activities across the deployment. MnT nodes provide reporting dashboards, troubleshooting tools, and operational visibility for administrators. Logs collected from PSNs include authentication requests, authorization decisions, posture evaluations, and BYOD or guest workflows. MnTs centralize this information, making it easier to generate reports, perform audits, and troubleshoot issues in complex enterprise networks.

A) PSN is incorrect because Policy Service Nodes enforce policies in real-time and handle authentication requests but do not provide centralized monitoring or reporting.

B) PAN is incorrect because Policy Administration Nodes manage configuration, policy creation, and distribution but are not responsible for operational visibility or reporting.

C) MnT is correct because it enables administrators to view trends, analyze failed authentication attempts, track posture compliance, and monitor BYOD and guest onboarding workflows. MnT nodes also allow the generation of historical and real-time reports for auditing and regulatory compliance. They provide insights into authorization policy effectiveness, device compliance trends, and security incidents, helping organizations maintain secure and well-managed networks.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes provide temporary access portals but do not aggregate network-wide logs or offer operational reporting capabilities.

MnT nodes are essential in enterprise deployments where security, visibility, and compliance are priorities. They allow administrators to detect issues, understand network behavior, and validate that policies are applied correctly. By integrating MnT with PSNs, PANs, and Guest Nodes, ISE provides a comprehensive platform for policy enforcement, operational visibility, and troubleshooting.

Question 70

Which feature in Cisco ISE allows non-corporate devices to securely connect to the network using automated workflows?

A) Posture
B) BYOD
C) Guest Access
D) TrustSec

Answer: B) BYOD

Explanation:

B) BYOD is the correct answer . BYOD in Cisco ISE enables employees to securely onboard personal devices to the corporate network using automated workflows. This includes self-service registration, certificate deployment for 802.1X authentication, and automatic Wi-Fi configuration. BYOD ensures that personal devices are securely integrated without requiring manual IT intervention while enforcing corporate security policies.

A) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates compliance but does not handle onboarding or automated configuration.

B) BYOD is correct because it facilitates secure onboarding for personal devices. The process begins with device registration via a portal, followed by credential assignment, digital certificate provisioning, and network configuration. BYOD can also include posture checks to ensure that devices meet minimum security requirements, such as up-to-date antivirus and firewalls, before granting full network access.

C) Guest Access is incorrect because it provides temporary access for visitors or contractors and is not intended for corporate employee-owned devices.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because it provides identity-based access enforcement using Security Group Tags but does not handle onboarding or device registration.

BYOD simplifies IT operations, ensures compliance, and provides employees with secure, productive access. It integrates with authorization policies, posture assessments, and TrustSec to deliver context-aware access based on device type, role, and compliance status.

Question 71

Which Cisco ISE feature allows dynamic assignment of VLANs to endpoints based on user role, device type, or posture compliance?

A) Authorization Policy
B) Posture
C) BYOD
D) TrustSec

Answer: A) Authorization Policy

Explanation:

A) Authorization Policy is the correct answer. In Cisco ISE, Authorization Policies are responsible for making decisions about what level of network access a user or device receives after successful authentication. One of the key capabilities of authorization policies is the ability to dynamically assign VLANs based on user identity, device type (as determined by profiling), and compliance status (as determined by posture assessment). This dynamic VLAN assignment allows organizations to segment the network efficiently and enforce security policies without requiring static configurations for each endpoint.

B) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates the security health of a device, such as whether antivirus software is up to date or firewalls are enabled. Posture provides input to the authorization policy but does not itself assign VLANs.

C) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on onboarding personal devices, including certificate deployment and Wi-Fi configuration. While BYOD may work in conjunction with authorization policies to determine access levels, it does not dynamically assign VLANs.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces network segmentation through Security Group Tags (SGTs) rather than VLAN assignment. TrustSec policies work alongside authorization policies but are focused on identity-based access rather than traditional Layer 2/3 network segmentation.

Authorization policies provide a highly flexible and scalable mechanism to enforce access controls across large, diverse networks. For example, a corporate laptop may be dynamically placed in a secure internal VLAN, while a guest device is placed in a limited-access VLAN. By combining the inputs from authentication, posture, and profiling, administrators can implement policies that adapt in real-time to the context of the user and device. Authorization policies allow enterprises to maintain high security, ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, and reduce administrative overhead. This dynamic approach to network access control helps prevent unauthorized access, isolates non-compliant devices, and enhances operational efficiency.

Question 72

Which ISE node is responsible for distributing policies and configuration to other nodes in the deployment?

A) PSN
B) PAN
C) MnT
D) Guest Node

Answer: B) PAN

Explanation:

B) PAN is the correct answer . The Policy Administration Node (PAN) in Cisco ISE is the central point for configuration management and policy creation. Administrators create authentication, authorization, BYOD, guest, posture, and TrustSec policies on the PAN. Once these policies are defined, the PAN distributes them to Policy Service Nodes (PSNs) for enforcement. The PAN ensures that all nodes in the deployment operate with consistent policies and configurations, which is essential for large, distributed environments.

A) PSN is incorrect because PSNs enforce policies and process authentication and authorization requests in real-time. They rely on the PAN for policy updates and configuration.

B) PAN is correct because it centralizes policy creation and distribution. All changes made on the PAN are replicated to PSNs to ensure consistent enforcement. The PAN also manages node groups, system certificates, and integration with external identity stores, such as Active Directory or LDAP. This centralized management reduces administrative complexity and ensures consistent security policies across the network.

C) MnT is incorrect because MnT nodes are used for monitoring, reporting, and troubleshooting. While they collect logs and provide visibility, they do not distribute policies or configurations.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes provide self-service registration portals and sponsor approval workflows for temporary users but do not manage policies for the entire deployment.

The PAN is essential in Cisco ISE deployments because it separates administrative functions from enforcement functions, providing scalability and high availability. By centralizing configuration, organizations can ensure uniform policy application, minimize errors, and maintain operational efficiency. Without a PAN, administrators would need to configure policies individually on each PSN, leading to inconsistencies and potential security gaps. PANs also facilitate multi-site deployments, where policies are replicated to PSNs at different locations to maintain consistent enforcement. Overall, the PAN is the authoritative node for policy management and configuration distribution, ensuring a secure and scalable network environment.

Question 73

Which ISE feature allows devices to be categorized based on attributes such as manufacturer, operating system, and MAC address?

A) Posture
B) Profiling
C) BYOD
D) Guest Access

Answer: B) Profiling

Explanation:

B) Profiling is the correct answer . Cisco ISE Profiling is designed to automatically identify and classify devices as they connect to the network. Profiling collects detailed attributes, such as the device manufacturer, model, operating system, and MAC address, using multiple sources including DHCP, RADIUS, SNMP, and HTTP headers. This identification process is critical for enforcing policies that are context-aware and role-based.

A) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates device compliance, such as antivirus presence or firewall configuration, rather than identifying the type of device.

B) Profiling is correct because it enables administrators to apply differentiated access controls based on device type. For example, printers, IP phones, laptops, and IoT devices can all be identified and assigned appropriate access levels automatically. Profiling also supports dynamic policy decisions by feeding device information into authorization policies. This allows non-compliant or unknown devices to be restricted, while known corporate devices receive full access.

C) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on onboarding employee-owned devices and does not automatically classify all devices connecting to the network.

D) Guest Access is incorrect because Guest Access provides temporary network access for visitors and contractors, not device identification.

Profiling is a foundational component of ISE because it provides visibility into the devices connecting to the network. By identifying device attributes, administrators can enforce policies that are granular and context-aware. For example, an unknown IoT device may be assigned to a restricted VLAN until it is registered or approved, while corporate laptops are granted full access. Profiling also enables integration with TrustSec for SGT assignment, providing identity-based network segmentation. Additionally, profiling helps detect anomalies, such as rogue devices or unauthorized endpoints, enhancing overall network security. With accurate device profiling, organizations can implement dynamic and automated access policies, reduce administrative overhead, and improve operational efficiency across wired, wireless, and VPN environments.

Question 74

Which protocol does ISE use to authenticate administrators accessing network devices and enforce command-level permissions?

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

Answer: B) TACACS+

Explanation:

B) TACACS+ is the correct answer . TACACS+ is used by Cisco ISE to provide authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) for administrative access to network devices such as routers, switches, and firewalls. It allows administrators to enforce granular command-level permissions, ensuring that each user can execute only the commands permitted by their role. TACACS+ separates authentication, authorization, and accounting, which provides precise control over administrative access and improves auditing capabilities.

A) RADIUS is incorrect because RADIUS is primarily used for endpoint authentication and authorization, including wired, wireless, and VPN access. It does not provide fine-grained command authorization for administrators.

B) TACACS+ is correct because it enables secure and auditable administrative access. For instance, junior network engineers may have read-only permissions, while senior engineers or administrators can make configuration changes. TACACS+ logs all commands executed, supporting compliance, troubleshooting, and security auditing.

C) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is used for monitoring and gathering statistics from devices. It does not provide authentication or enforce command-level access.

D) HTTP is incorrect because HTTP is used for web-based portals, such as BYOD registration or guest self-service, and does not enforce administrative AAA.

TACACS+ integration with ISE ensures secure network operations and accountability. Administrators can enforce role-based access policies, track all changes, and maintain compliance with security standards. TACACS+ also supports centralized control of multiple devices, reducing configuration errors and improving operational efficiency. By combining TACACS+ with authorization policies in ISE, organizations can implement a robust and auditable administrative access framework, ensuring network integrity and accountability across all devices.

Question 75

Which ISE feature enables temporary users to access the network with self-registration and sponsor approval workflows?

A) BYOD
B) Posture
C) Guest Access
D) TrustSec

Answer: C) Guest Access

Explanation:

C) Guest Access is the correct answer. Cisco ISE Guest Access provides a secure method for temporary users, such as contractors, visitors, or vendors, to access the network. It offers self-registration portals where guests can request credentials and sponsor approval workflows where an internal employee approves access. Administrators can apply time-based restrictions, VLAN assignment, and ACLs to isolate guest traffic from corporate resources. Guest Access ensures secure, auditable, and controlled access for temporary users while maintaining network security and compliance.

A) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on onboarding employee-owned devices, not temporary users.

B) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates endpoint compliance rather than managing guest registration or workflows.

C) Guest Access is correct because it manages the complete lifecycle of temporary network access. Guest portals can be customized with branding, sponsor approval workflows, expiration dates, and policy-based access controls. Guest Access integrates with authorization policies to determine what resources a guest can access. Administrators can monitor guest activity, generate audit reports, and enforce time-limited access to maintain security.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces network segmentation through SGTs and is unrelated to guest registration.

Guest Access is critical in enterprise networks to provide secure connectivity for visitors while maintaining operational control. By integrating Guest Access with authorization policies, ISE ensures that temporary users receive only the access they need. Administrators can control the duration of access, apply role-based restrictions, and generate reports for auditing. This approach reduces the risk of unauthorized access, supports compliance, and enhances the overall security posture of the organization. Guest Access also simplifies administration by providing automated registration and approval workflows, reducing manual intervention and improving operational efficiency.

Question 76

In a large enterprise ISE deployment, which feature ensures consistent identity-based access enforcement across switches, wireless controllers, and firewalls using Security Group Tags (SGTs)?

A) TACACS+
B) TrustSec
C) RADIUS
D) Guest Access

Answer: B) TrustSec

Explanation:

B) TrustSec is the correct answer. Cisco TrustSec is a major component of Cisco’s identity-based networking architecture and plays a crucial role in enforcing dynamic, scalable, secure access policies across the entire infrastructure. TrustSec uses Security Group Tags (SGTs) to assign identity attributes to traffic flows, enabling network segmentation based on user roles, device types, security posture, or other contextual attributes. This approach eliminates the reliance on traditional IP-based access methods, which are often difficult to maintain, prone to misconfiguration, and do not scale well in environments with thousands of devices.

A) TACACS+ is incorrect because TACACS+ is designed for administrative access control, providing command authorization and auditing on network devices. While TACACS+ is important for operational security, it does not enforce identity-based network segmentation using SGTs. TACACS+ is used for AAA of administrators, not endpoints or traffic flows.

B) TrustSec is the correct answer because it provides identity-based access enforcement using SGTs. TrustSec works seamlessly with Cisco ISE authorization policies, which assign SGTs to users or devices based on authentication results. These SGTs are then propagated across the infrastructure using SXP (Security Group Tag Exchange Protocol) or inline tagging. Network devices such as switches, routers, firewalls, and wireless controllers use these tags to enforce SGACL (Security Group Access Control List) policies. This ensures that access decisions are based on identity and context rather than IP addresses or VLANs. For example, all “Finance” users may receive an SGT of 10, while “Guests” receive an SGT of 20. SGACLs are then configured to allow Finance users to access financial systems while preventing Guests from accessing anything other than the internet. This identity-based approach dramatically simplifies network segmentation and allows policies to be updated without the need to redesign VLANs or IP subnets.

C) RADIUS is incorrect because although RADIUS is used by ISE to authenticate devices and users, it does not itself enforce identity-based segmentation using SGTs. RADIUS transmits the SGT assignment from ISE to the access device, but the segmentation enforcement is part of TrustSec, not RADIUS.

D) Guest Access is incorrect because Guest Access provides temporary network access for visitors through customizable portals. While Guest Access may assign different authorization rules to visitors, it does not handle identity-based segmentation using SGTs.

TrustSec is essential in modern enterprise networks where dynamic, scalable segmentation is required. Traditional network segmentation relies on VLANs, ACLs, and static IP assignments, which can become extremely complex and difficult to maintain as the environment grows. TrustSec solves this by decoupling policy enforcement from network topology and instead tying it to identity. This design allows rapid changes to policy based on business needs without requiring reconfiguration of underlying network infrastructure. Additionally, TrustSec integrates with Software-Defined Access (SDA), extending identity-based segmentation into Cisco’s intent-based networking framework. TrustSec also plays a critical role in compliance, as organizations can maintain clear audit trails of which identities accessed which resources and under what circumstances. This improves visibility, simplifies auditing, and greatly enhances the overall security posture of the network.

Question 77

Which component of Cisco ISE is responsible for analyzing posture assessment results and determining the authorization outcome for compliant or non-compliant endpoints?

A) Profiling Service
B) Policy Service Node (PSN)
C) MnT Node
D) PAN

Answer: B) Policy Service Node (PSN)

Explanation:

B) Policy Service Node (PSN) is the correct answer. PSNs are the core enforcement nodes in a Cisco ISE deployment, responsible for processing all authentication, authorization, posture, and profiling decisions in real-time. When an endpoint connects to the network, the PSN receives the RADIUS request from the network access device (switch, WLC, VPN concentrator). It evaluates authentication credentials, retrieves posture assessment results, applies authorization policies, and determines what level of access the endpoint should receive.

A) Profiling Service is incorrect because while device profiling identifies attributes about the endpoint (such as operating system, MAC OUI, device type, etc.), it does not evaluate posture compliance nor make authorization decisions. Profiling supports contextual decisions but is not the decision-maker itself.

B) Policy Service Node is the correct answer because PSNs are responsible for evaluating posture assessment results and applying corresponding authorization outcomes. For example, if a corporate laptop connects and the posture agent determines that antivirus signatures are outdated or firewall is disabled, the PSN applies the authorization rule for non-compliant devices, which may redirect the user to a remediation portal or assign a restricted VLAN. Once the posture agent reports compliance, the PSN re-evaluates the authorization policy and grants full access. This dynamic, context-aware enforcement is one of ISE’s most powerful features, ensuring that devices gain access only when they meet security requirements.

C) MnT Node is incorrect because Monitoring and Troubleshooting Nodes are responsible for aggregating logs, generating reports, and providing audit trails. They do not enforce access decisions. Although the MnT node may store posture results or authentication logs, the decision-making happens only on the PSN.

D) PAN is incorrect because the Policy Administration Node manages configuration, creates policies, integrates identity sources, and distributes settings to other nodes. It does not evaluate posture or apply authorization rules.

The PSN is essential for real-time policy enforcement in large enterprise deployments. Its role expands across all major services in ISE, including TACACS+ for administrative access, RADIUS for endpoint authentication, posture validation, TrustSec SGT assignment, and BYOD onboarding. Because PSNs enforce the policies defined on the PAN, they must be deployed with sufficient redundancy and distributed across geographic sites for high availability and load balancing. In environments with tens of thousands of endpoints, multiple PSNs allow the system to scale horizontally and maintain consistent performance.

Posture assessment is a key capability of ISE, enabling organizations to ensure that endpoints comply with security policies before granting full access. PSNs evaluate posture results provided by Cisco AnyConnect or NAC Agent and match them against posture conditions defined in the policy set. The PSN then assigns the appropriate authorization policy, ensuring dynamic access enforcement. This model prevents infected, misconfigured, or non-compliant devices from compromising the network. When combined with profiling, TrustSec, and BYOD workflows, the PSN forms the “brains” of the Cisco ISE enforcement architecture.

Question 78

Which protocol does Cisco ISE use to securely exchange Security Group Tag (SGT) information between devices that do not support inline tagging?

A) SXP
B) SNMP
C) HTTPS
D) TACACS+

Answer: A) SXP

Explanation:

A) SXP is the correct answer. SXP (Security Group Tag Exchange Protocol) is a Cisco TrustSec protocol used to transport SGT-to-IP mappings between devices when inline SGT tagging is not available. Inline tagging requires hardware support to embed SGTs directly into Ethernet frames. However, many devices—especially older switches, wireless controllers, or firewalls—cannot embed SGTs directly. In these cases, SXP acts as a control-plane protocol that propagates SGT information across unsupported links.

B) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is used for device monitoring and does not transfer SGT information used for TrustSec.

C) HTTPS is incorrect because HTTPS is used for secure web communication, such as accessing the ISE GUI or handling BYOD portal transactions, not SGT propagation.

D) TACACS+ is incorrect because TACACS+ provides administrative device authentication and command authorization, not TrustSec tag exchange.

SXP is essential in hybrid networks where newer TrustSec-capable devices coexist with legacy hardware. Without SXP, access decisions based on SGTs would break when traffic crosses devices that lack tagging capability. SXP solves this by sending mapping information between TrustSec devices using a TCP-based control channel. The receiving device can then enforce Security Group ACLs (SGACLs) based on the identity associated with the traffic, even though the packet itself is not tagged. This ensures consistent and scalable identity-based enforcement across the entire network, regardless of underlying hardware capabilities.

Question 79

Which Cisco ISE capability ensures that devices connecting through VPN meet compliance requirements such as updated antivirus, correct patches, and active firewalls?

A) TACACS+
B) Profiling
C) Posture
D) Guest Access

Answer: C) Posture

Explanation:

C) Posture is the correct answer. Posture assessment allows Cisco ISE to evaluate the security health of an endpoint before granting full network access. This includes verifying antivirus status, patch levels, firewall settings, disk encryption, and other compliance requirements. When a device connects via VPN, posture assessment ensures that remote endpoints meet corporate security standards before allowing access to internal resources.

A) TACACS+ is incorrect because it is used for administrative access control, not endpoint compliance.

B) Profiling is incorrect because profiling identifies device types and attributes but does not evaluate their security posture.

C) Posture is correct because it evaluates the security compliance of endpoints. For VPN users, posture is especially crucial, since remote endpoints may connect from insecure networks. If a device fails posture checks, it is placed into a restricted access VLAN or VPN authorization profile, often redirected to a remediation portal where users can install updates or fix issues. Once compliant, the device receives full authorization.

D) Guest Access is incorrect because it provides temporary onboarding portals for visitors but does not enforce endpoint compliance.

Posture is critical in securing remote work environments, enabling organizations to enforce policies even when devices are off the corporate network.

Question 80

Which ISE feature provides automated certificate provisioning for secure 802.1X authentication of personal devices during the onboarding process?

A) TrustSec
B) BYOD
C) SXP
D) RADIUS Accounting

Answer: B) BYOD

Explanation:

B) BYOD is the correct answer. Cisco ISE’s BYOD framework provides automated certificate enrollment and provisioning for personal devices, ensuring that users can securely authenticate using EAP-TLS during 802.1X access.

A) TrustSec is incorrect because it handles identity-based segmentation, not certificate enrollment.

B) BYOD is correct because it automates onboarding, certificate deployment, and secure Wi-Fi configuration for employee-owned devices. During onboarding, users authenticate to the BYOD portal, register their devices, and receive certificates installed automatically. These certificates allow secure 802.1X authentication without relying on passwords.

C) SXP is incorrect because it transfers SGT mappings, not certificates.

D) RADIUS Accounting is incorrect because it logs user session information but does not provision certificates.

BYOD ensures secure onboarding and simplifies authentication through certificate-based access, significantly improving network security and compliance.