Cisco 300-715 Implementing and Configuring Cisco Identity Services Engine (300-715 SISE) Exam Dumps and Practice Test Questions Set9 Q161-180

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Question 161

Which ISE feature allows administrators to dynamically assign network access based on the role, location, and device type of an endpoint?

A) Authorization Policies
B) Profiling
C) BYOD
D) Guest Access

Answer: A) Authorization Policies

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) Authorization Policies. Authorization policies in Cisco ISE are rules that define what access an endpoint or user should receive once authentication is successful. These policies consider multiple contextual attributes such as user identity, device type, location, posture compliance, and time of access to determine the level of network privileges. Authorization policies are applied in real time by Policy Service Nodes (PSNs), ensuring that network access is dynamically adjusted based on the current conditions of the endpoint and user session.

A) Authorization Policies is correct because it allows granular control of network access. Policies can include decisions such as VLAN assignment, ACL application, or Security Group Tag (SGT) enforcement. For instance, a corporate laptop might be allowed full access to internal resources, while a BYOD device may be placed in a restricted VLAN until it meets posture requirements. These policies integrate with other ISE features such as profiling and posture, enabling context-aware and adaptive access control.

B) Profiling is incorrect because profiling identifies and categorizes endpoints based on their attributes but does not enforce access policies.

C) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD handles secure device onboarding and certificate deployment, not real-time access decision enforcement.

D) Guest Access is incorrect because it manages temporary user accounts and sponsor workflows, not the dynamic application of network access policies.

Authorization policies are foundational in implementing Cisco ISE’s role-based and context-aware access control. They reduce administrative overhead by allowing automated access decisions based on predefined rules, ensuring consistency, scalability, and compliance. With dynamic attributes from profiling, posture, and TrustSec, administrators can implement a zero-trust approach, providing the right level of access to the right devices and users, while minimizing security risks. Detailed logging and reporting through Monitoring and Troubleshooting (MnT) nodes further provide visibility into access decisions and compliance, making authorization policies indispensable for enterprise network security and operational efficiency.

Question 162

Which ISE component provides reporting and real-time dashboards to monitor authentication, authorization, and policy enforcement activities?

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

Answer: A) MnT

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) MnT. Monitoring and Troubleshooting (MnT) nodes are responsible for collecting, storing, and presenting logs from Policy Service Nodes (PSNs) and other components in a Cisco ISE deployment. MnT provides real-time dashboards, detailed reports, and trend analyses that allow administrators to monitor authentication, authorization, posture, BYOD, guest access, and TrustSec enforcement activities. MnT ensures that any failures, policy violations, or non-compliant endpoints are visible for timely remediation.

A) MnT is correct because it aggregates all ISE logs and presents them in a user-friendly interface. Administrators can analyze events such as failed authentications, posture compliance failures, and guest onboarding activity. MnT also supports filtering by device type, location, identity source, and policy decision, enabling precise troubleshooting and operational monitoring. Additionally, MnT provides historical reporting, which is critical for compliance audits, identifying recurring issues, and analyzing security trends over time. Integration with SIEM systems allows alerts and events to be forwarded for enterprise-wide monitoring.

B) PAN is incorrect because the Policy Administration Node is responsible for creating and distributing policies but does not provide operational dashboards.

C) PSN is incorrect because Policy Service Nodes enforce policies in real time but do not aggregate logs or provide monitoring reports.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes manage temporary user workflows, not comprehensive monitoring or reporting.

MnT plays a critical role in Cisco ISE by ensuring administrators have visibility into policy enforcement across the network. With MnT, enterprises can detect anomalies, audit user and device access, and optimize policy configurations. It helps ensure compliance with organizational security standards and regulatory requirements. MnT dashboards allow drill-down into specific endpoints or sessions, providing actionable insights for network administrators to resolve issues proactively. By combining operational visibility with detailed logs, MnT improves troubleshooting efficiency and overall network security posture.

Question 163

Which protocol is primarily used by Cisco ISE to authenticate administrative users and control command-level access to network devices?

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

Answer: A) TACACS+

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) TACACS+. TACACS+ (Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus) is a protocol designed for centralized authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA) of administrative users accessing network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls. Unlike RADIUS, which authenticates network endpoints, TACACS+ provides granular command-level authorization and logs every command executed by an administrator. This ensures accountability, compliance, and detailed auditing of network administration activities.

A) TACACS+ is correct because it allows network administrators to define roles and assign specific permissions for executing configuration commands. Each administrative action can be logged, providing a comprehensive audit trail. TACACS+ separates authentication, authorization, and accounting functions, allowing flexibility in enforcing policies while maintaining security. Integration with Cisco ISE allows centralized identity management, role-based access control, and consistent enforcement of administrative privileges across multiple devices. For example, a junior administrator may be allowed only to view configurations, while a senior administrator can modify routing or security policies.

B) RADIUS is incorrect because RADIUS is primarily used to authenticate endpoints for network access and does not support granular command authorization.

C) HTTP is incorrect because HTTP is used for web portals and onboarding services, not command-level device authentication.

D) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is a monitoring protocol for collecting network statistics, not for enforcing administrative access control.

TACACS+ is essential in enterprise networks to ensure secure, auditable administrative access. It provides accountability, supports regulatory compliance, reduces risk from unauthorized configuration changes, and integrates with ISE for centralized management. By logging all administrative actions and controlling command-level permissions, TACACS+ ensures a secure, well-managed network environment, protecting critical infrastructure from both internal and external threats.

Question 164

Which ISE feature enables temporary network access for contractors, vendors, or visitors while controlling permissions and expiration?

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

Answer: A) Guest Access

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) Guest Access. Cisco ISE Guest Access provides controlled, temporary network connectivity for external users such as contractors, vendors, and visitors. Guest Access allows administrators to define user accounts, permissions, expiration dates, and sponsor workflows, ensuring temporary users only have access to authorized resources. Guest Access can be self-service or sponsor-based, with automated approval and account expiration to prevent lingering access.

A) Guest Access is correct because it provides a secure workflow for temporary users. Administrators can enforce policies like VLAN assignment, ACLs, and bandwidth restrictions based on guest type. Guests can be redirected to captive portals for authentication, and sponsor approval ensures accountability. Integration with monitoring and reporting systems allows administrators to track guest activity, enforce compliance, and provide auditing information for regulatory purposes.

B) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD is focused on onboarding employee-owned devices, not temporary external access.

C) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates endpoint compliance rather than managing temporary user accounts.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces identity-based segmentation but does not handle temporary user onboarding or permissions.

Guest Access provides enterprises with a controlled, auditable, and automated solution for temporary access management. By limiting access to defined resources and implementing expiration policies, Guest Access reduces security risk while maintaining operational efficiency. The integration with ISE’s policy engine ensures temporary accounts are handled consistently with broader network access rules, providing secure, adaptive, and compliant network access for non-employees.

Question 165

Which ISE feature evaluates endpoint compliance and redirects non-compliant devices for remediation before granting access?

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

Answer: A) Posture

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) Posture. Cisco ISE Posture evaluates endpoint compliance to determine if a device meets organizational security policies before network access is granted. Posture checks commonly include antivirus presence, firewall configuration, operating system patches, and security settings. Devices that fail these checks can be placed into a restricted VLAN or redirected to a remediation portal where users can resolve the issues.

A) Posture is correct because it enforces compliance-based access dynamically. It integrates with ISE authorization policies to assign VLANs, ACLs, or Security Group Tags (SGTs) according to device status. For example, a laptop without updated antivirus may be placed in a remediation network until compliance is restored. Posture operates in both agent-based and agentless modes. Agent-based posture uses a lightweight client on the endpoint to perform checks, whereas agentless posture relies on information gathered from network traffic, DHCP, or HTTP headers.

B) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on securely onboarding employee-owned devices, not compliance evaluation.

C) Guest Access is incorrect because guest access manages temporary user accounts, not endpoint compliance.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces identity-based segmentation rather than compliance evaluation.

Posture is a critical component of Cisco ISE’s security framework. It ensures only secure, compliant devices access the network, reduces the risk of malware spread, and integrates with dynamic access policies for adaptive network security. Detailed logging and reporting also provide auditing and compliance capabilities, supporting operational monitoring and regulatory requirements.

Question 166

Which ISE feature allows devices to be categorized automatically based on attributes like operating system, device type, and MAC address?

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

Answer: A) Profiling

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) Profiling. Cisco ISE Profiling is a feature that allows administrators to automatically identify and categorize endpoints connecting to the network. Profiling works by collecting attributes such as MAC addresses, DHCP fingerprints, HTTP user-agent strings, and device operating systems. This collected data enables ISE to assign the appropriate device type, category, and sometimes security group to the endpoint. These profiles are critical for policy enforcement because they provide the context required by Authorization Policies and TrustSec segmentation.

A) Profiling is correct because it provides the basis for context-aware access control. Once devices are profiled, administrators can enforce dynamic policies tailored to device types. For example, endpoints identified as printers can be automatically restricted to specific VLANs, whereas corporate laptops may receive full access with Security Group Tags (SGTs). Profiling also helps differentiate between corporate, BYOD, and unknown endpoints, which is essential for zero-trust implementations. It reduces manual effort and errors, enabling scalable policy enforcement across large networks with heterogeneous devices.

B) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates endpoint compliance with security policies, not device categorization.

C) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on securely onboarding personal devices, including certificate provisioning, rather than automatically categorizing devices.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec is a framework for enforcing identity-based segmentation using SGTs, not for identifying device attributes.

Profiling ensures that access control decisions are based on accurate endpoint identity and characteristics. It provides visibility into the types of devices on the network, supporting compliance, threat detection, and operational monitoring. Integration with MnT allows administrators to generate reports on device types, usage patterns, and anomalies. Profiling also supports posture checks, BYOD workflows, and dynamic authorization policies by providing the critical context needed for decision-making. By automating device identification, profiling enhances operational efficiency, improves security posture, and ensures consistent policy enforcement in large-scale enterprise deployments.

Question 167

Which ISE component is responsible for distributing policies to Policy Service Nodes (PSNs) in a deployment?

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

Answer: A) PAN

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) PAN. The Policy Administration Node (PAN) is the central component responsible for creating, managing, and distributing policies across a Cisco ISE deployment. Administrators define all policies, including authentication, authorization, posture, BYOD, Guest Access, and TrustSec policies, on the PAN. Once configured, these policies are replicated to all Policy Service Nodes (PSNs), which enforce them in real time. This centralized approach ensures consistency across the network and simplifies administration.

A) PAN is correct because it provides a single point of policy administration. By centralizing management, PAN reduces the risk of configuration errors, ensures that updates are consistently applied across all PSNs, and supports multi-node and high-availability deployments. For example, an organization can define posture-based authorization policies on the PAN and have them automatically enforced on all PSNs across multiple geographic locations. The PAN also manages node certificates, identity source integration, and global system configurations, making it a critical component for scalable and secure network access control.

B) MnT is incorrect because MnT aggregates logs and provides dashboards and reports but does not distribute policies.

C) PSN is incorrect because PSNs enforce policies rather than create or distribute them.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes manage temporary user accounts and sponsor workflows, not global policy distribution.

PAN is essential for enterprise deployments because it ensures uniform policy enforcement across wired, wireless, and VPN environments. It allows administrators to define granular access control rules while maintaining operational efficiency and minimizing errors. PAN integrates with MnT, posture, BYOD, and TrustSec to provide adaptive and context-aware access control, while also supporting logging, auditing, and compliance reporting. Without PAN, distributed policy management would be inefficient, error-prone, and difficult to scale, making it a cornerstone of Cisco ISE architecture.

Question 168

Which ISE protocol provides AAA services for endpoints connecting to the network and supports dynamic assignment of VLANs, ACLs, and Security Group Tags?

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

Answer: A) RADIUS

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) RADIUS. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) is the standard protocol used by Cisco ISE for endpoint authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA). When an endpoint attempts to connect to the network, the access device, such as a switch or wireless controller, sends an authentication request to ISE via RADIUS. The ISE evaluates the request, considering factors like user identity, device type, posture compliance, location, and time. The RADIUS response can include dynamic attributes, such as VLAN assignments, ACLs, or Security Group Tags (SGTs), which are enforced by the network device to grant context-aware access.

A) RADIUS is correct because it is designed to authenticate endpoints, provide authorization decisions, and enforce dynamic network access policies. RADIUS allows granular control over network access without requiring static IP addresses or manual configuration. For example, a compliant corporate laptop may receive full network access with an SGT indicating its role, whereas a non-compliant BYOD device may be assigned to a remediation VLAN with limited access. RADIUS also supports accounting, logging every authentication and authorization event, which is critical for troubleshooting, auditing, and compliance.

B) TACACS+ is incorrect because it is used for administrative access to network devices, not for endpoint authentication and dynamic access enforcement.

C) HTTP is incorrect because HTTP portals are used for self-service registration, onboarding, and guest access workflows, not real-time AAA enforcement.

D) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is a monitoring protocol, not an authentication and authorization protocol.

RADIUS is a foundational component in Cisco ISE deployments, enabling secure, scalable, and context-aware access control. It integrates with posture, BYOD, profiling, and TrustSec to provide adaptive access policies, ensuring that endpoints receive appropriate access levels while maintaining security compliance. By centralizing authentication, authorization, and accounting, RADIUS simplifies administration, improves network security, and provides detailed visibility into endpoint access behavior.

Question 169

Which ISE feature enforces role-based network segmentation using Security Group Tags (SGTs) instead of traditional VLANs?

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

Answer: A) TrustSec

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) TrustSec. Cisco TrustSec is a security solution that enables role-based network segmentation using Security Group Tags (SGTs). Unlike traditional VLAN-based segmentation, which relies on network topology, TrustSec assigns SGTs to users and devices to enforce access policies based on identity and role. TrustSec integrates with Cisco ISE to dynamically assign SGTs according to user roles, device compliance, location, and policy context. Enforcement devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls then apply access control policies based on these tags.

A) TrustSec is correct because it allows administrators to abstract network segmentation from the physical infrastructure. For example, finance users may be assigned SGTs that permit access to financial resources while preventing access to engineering networks, regardless of where the users connect. TrustSec policies are propagated across the network, ensuring consistent access enforcement for wired, wireless, and VPN connections. TrustSec integrates with other ISE features such as posture, BYOD, and profiling, allowing contextual information to influence SGT assignment and network access.

B) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD manages employee device onboarding and certificate provisioning, not network segmentation.

C) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates endpoint compliance and does not enforce segmentation.

D) Guest Access is incorrect because guest access manages temporary user accounts, not identity-based segmentation.

TrustSec enhances security by reducing dependency on IP addresses or VLANs, simplifying network administration, and enabling scalable policy enforcement. Its integration with Cisco ISE allows organizations to implement zero-trust segmentation, enforce access control dynamically, and maintain consistent policies across the enterprise. By combining identity, role, and device posture, TrustSec ensures secure, adaptive, and context-aware access control across complex network environments.

Question 170

Which ISE component collects logs and presents dashboards for troubleshooting authentication and authorization issues?

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

Answer: A) MnT

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) MnT. Monitoring and Troubleshooting (MnT) nodes in Cisco ISE collect and aggregate logs from Policy Service Nodes (PSNs), Policy Administration Nodes (PANs), and network devices. MnT provides operational dashboards, real-time monitoring, and historical reporting, allowing administrators to troubleshoot authentication, authorization, posture, and BYOD workflows. MnT enables filtering by device type, identity source, policy outcome, or endpoint, providing detailed visibility into network activity.

A) MnT is correct because it centralizes operational visibility and supports both real-time troubleshooting and compliance reporting. Administrators can view failed authentications, posture assessment results, guest onboarding issues, and policy violations. MnT also supports integration with SIEM platforms to forward alerts and events for broader security monitoring. Detailed reports provide insights into trends, usage patterns, and policy enforcement consistency.

B) PAN is incorrect because the PAN manages policy creation and distribution, not log collection or operational dashboards.

C) PSN is incorrect because PSNs enforce policies but do not provide centralized reporting or dashboards.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes manage temporary user workflows, not network-wide monitoring or troubleshooting.

MnT is essential for enterprise network operations, enabling administrators to resolve issues quickly, analyze trends, and verify policy compliance. By combining centralized log collection, real-time dashboards, and historical reporting, MnT provides actionable insights for operational efficiency, security monitoring, and regulatory compliance.

Question 171

Which ISE feature ensures devices meet corporate security requirements such as antivirus, firewall, and patch compliance before network access?

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

Answer: A) Posture

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) Posture. Cisco ISE Posture ensures that endpoints meet security compliance requirements before granting network access. Posture evaluation is a critical element of network security, as it reduces the risk of vulnerable devices introducing malware, unauthorized software, or configuration issues into the corporate network. Posture assessments can include checking antivirus status, firewall configuration, operating system patches, security agent presence, and other compliance indicators. Devices that fail compliance can be automatically redirected to a remediation portal or a restricted VLAN to remediate issues.

A) Posture is correct because it provides dynamic and context-aware enforcement of compliance-based access policies. Posture integrates with ISE Authorization Policies to dynamically assign VLANs, ACLs, or Security Group Tags (SGTs) based on the compliance status of a device. For example, a corporate laptop with outdated antivirus software may be restricted from accessing sensitive resources until compliance is restored. ISE supports both agent-based posture, where a lightweight client on the endpoint performs checks, and agentless posture, where compliance is determined using network information such as DHCP fingerprints, HTTP headers, and SNMP data.

B) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on securely onboarding employee-owned devices, including certificate deployment and enrollment, rather than enforcing compliance.

C) Guest Access is incorrect because guest access manages temporary user accounts, sponsor approvals, and permissions, not compliance evaluation.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces role-based segmentation using SGTs and does not evaluate endpoint security compliance.

Posture is vital for modern enterprise networks because it ensures only secure and compliant devices access the network, minimizing the risk of breaches or malware propagation. It also enables organizations to implement adaptive security policies by combining posture with profiling, BYOD, and TrustSec information. Administrators can enforce remediation, log compliance violations, and generate reports for auditing and regulatory purposes. This integration ensures that enterprise networks maintain high security standards while allowing seamless access for authorized devices and users, supporting both operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Question 172

Which ISE protocol allows endpoints to authenticate to network devices and receive dynamic VLAN and ACL assignments?

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

Answer: A) RADIUS

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) RADIUS. RADIUS (Remote Authentication Dial-In User Service) is the protocol used by Cisco ISE for endpoint authentication, authorization, and accounting (AAA). When a network device such as a switch or wireless controller receives a connection request from an endpoint, it forwards an authentication request to the ISE via RADIUS. The ISE evaluates the request based on identity, device type, posture compliance, location, and time, then returns an authorization response that can include dynamic attributes such as VLAN assignments, ACLs, or Security Group Tags (SGTs). These attributes are enforced by the network device to ensure context-aware access.

A) RADIUS is correct because it enables centralized AAA management, supports dynamic access policies, and provides detailed accounting logs for auditing and troubleshooting. For instance, a corporate laptop may be assigned full access with a specific VLAN and SGT, while a non-compliant BYOD device is placed into a restricted remediation VLAN. RADIUS allows network administrators to implement flexible, scalable, and secure access control across wired, wireless, and VPN networks. It also integrates with BYOD workflows, posture checks, and profiling services to provide adaptive security based on real-time endpoint conditions.

B) TACACS+ is incorrect because TACACS+ is primarily for administrative access control, not endpoint network authentication.

C) HTTP is incorrect because HTTP portals are used for onboarding and guest access workflows, not real-time access control enforcement.

D) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is a monitoring protocol and does not authenticate or authorize endpoints.

RADIUS ensures that network access is both secure and adaptable to varying endpoint types and conditions. By centralizing authentication, authorization, and accounting, it simplifies management, improves operational efficiency, and provides detailed logs for compliance audits. Combined with posture, BYOD, and profiling, RADIUS enables a zero-trust approach, dynamically enforcing access policies while maintaining high security standards.

Question 173

Which ISE component enforces authentication and authorization policies for endpoints in real time?

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

Answer: A) PSN

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) PSN. Policy Service Nodes (PSNs) are the enforcement points in Cisco ISE responsible for processing authentication and authorization requests from endpoints. PSNs receive requests from network devices and evaluate them against policies configured in the Policy Administration Node (PAN). Based on the policy, PSNs enforce decisions such as VLAN assignment, ACL application, and Security Group Tag (SGT) assignment. PSNs also integrate with profiling, posture, BYOD, and TrustSec to provide context-aware, adaptive access control.

A) PSN is correct because it ensures real-time policy enforcement, enabling immediate, secure access decisions. For example, a compliant corporate laptop may receive full access, while a non-compliant BYOD device is redirected to a remediation network. PSNs also log authentication and authorization events, which can be collected by Monitoring and Troubleshooting (MnT) nodes for reporting, auditing, and compliance verification.

B) PAN is incorrect because the Policy Administration Node creates and distributes policies but does not enforce them in real time.

C) MnT is incorrect because Monitoring and Troubleshooting nodes aggregate logs and provide dashboards, but do not enforce access policies.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes manage temporary user accounts, sponsor approvals, and workflows, not policy enforcement.

PSNs are essential for scalable and secure deployments of Cisco ISE. They ensure that network access decisions are made based on real-time context, integrating identity, device compliance, posture, and location information. By distributing enforcement across multiple PSNs, enterprises achieve high availability and resilience, while centralized logging via MnT provides operational visibility and supports auditing and regulatory compliance.

Question 174

Which ISE feature provides temporary network access for external users with controlled permissions and expiration?

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

Answer: A) Guest Access

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) Guest Access. Cisco ISE Guest Access provides controlled, temporary access for external users such as contractors, vendors, or visitors. Administrators can define permissions, account duration, and sponsor workflows. Guest Access ensures that users only access authorized resources and that accounts automatically expire to prevent unauthorized long-term access. Guests can authenticate through self-service portals or sponsor-based workflows, and their activity can be tracked for auditing.

A) Guest Access is correct because it provides a secure, auditable, and automated workflow for temporary users. Permissions can include VLAN restrictions, ACLs, bandwidth limits, and web redirection policies. Integration with MnT allows administrators to monitor guest sessions, view failed login attempts, and track resource usage. Guest Access also supports regulatory compliance by providing a complete log of guest account activity and sponsor approvals.

B) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on onboarding employee devices rather than temporary user access.

C) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates endpoint compliance, not temporary user accounts.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces identity-based segmentation using SGTs, not temporary access workflows.

Guest Access enhances network security and operational efficiency by providing temporary users with secure, policy-compliant access while ensuring administrators have visibility and control over guest activity. Automated account expiration, auditing, and reporting make Guest Access essential for enterprise security and compliance.

Question 175

Which ISE feature assigns Security Group Tags (SGTs) to endpoints for identity-based network segmentation?

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

Answer: A) TrustSec

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) TrustSec. Cisco TrustSec enables role-based network segmentation by assigning Security Group Tags (SGTs) to endpoints. SGTs represent roles or security groups rather than physical network locations. Policy enforcement is based on these tags, enabling dynamic, identity-based access control across wired, wireless, and VPN networks. TrustSec integrates with ISE to assign SGTs dynamically based on user identity, device type, posture compliance, and location.

A) TrustSec is correct because it allows policies to be enforced independently of IP addresses or VLANs. For example, finance users can access financial servers but be restricted from engineering resources, regardless of their network connection point. TrustSec also works with VLANs, ACLs, and dynamic policies, and integrates with posture and BYOD for adaptive security enforcement.

B) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD focuses on device onboarding and certificate deployment, not SGT assignment.

C) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates compliance, not segmentation.

D) Guest Access is incorrect because guest access manages temporary user accounts, not identity-based segmentation.

TrustSec enhances enterprise security by providing scalable, flexible, and adaptive network segmentation. Integration with ISE ensures SGT assignment is dynamic, context-aware, and consistent, supporting zero-trust architectures and reducing administrative complexity. It allows centralized control over access policies while providing visibility and audit capabilities for compliance.

Question 176

Which ISE component is responsible for central policy creation and distribution across all enforcement nodes in a deployment?

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

Answer: A) PAN

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) PAN. The Policy Administration Node (PAN) is the central component in a Cisco ISE deployment responsible for creating, managing, and distributing policies to Policy Service Nodes (PSNs) for enforcement. PAN acts as the administrative interface for network access policies, including authentication, authorization, BYOD, posture, Guest Access, and TrustSec. Once policies are defined on PAN, they are replicated to all PSNs, ensuring consistent enforcement across wired, wireless, and VPN networks. PAN also handles node certificate management, identity source integrations, and system-level configurations.

A) PAN is correct because it centralizes administrative control, enabling consistency and reducing configuration errors in large-scale deployments. Administrators can define complex policies once, and PAN ensures they are enforced uniformly across all PSNs. For example, a posture-based authorization policy defined on PAN will automatically propagate to all PSNs, allowing non-compliant devices to be redirected to remediation VLANs regardless of the physical location of the access device. PAN also integrates with BYOD, profiling, and TrustSec features, providing dynamic and context-aware enforcement across the enterprise.

B) PSN is incorrect because PSNs enforce policies in real time but do not create or distribute them.

C) MnT is incorrect because Monitoring and Troubleshooting nodes aggregate logs and provide dashboards, but they do not manage policy creation or distribution.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes manage temporary user accounts and sponsor workflows rather than global policy administration.

PAN is critical for scalable, secure, and operationally efficient deployments. It enables centralized policy administration while ensuring high availability, supports regulatory compliance by logging all configuration changes, and integrates with other ISE components to provide adaptive network access. By centralizing management, PAN reduces administrative overhead, minimizes errors, and ensures consistent enforcement of policies across diverse network environments, including wired, wireless, and VPN connections. PAN is the foundation for enterprise-class network access control in Cisco ISE.

Question 177

Which ISE protocol is used to manage administrative access to network devices with command-level authorization and detailed logging?

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

Answer: A) TACACS+

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) TACACS+. TACACS+ (Terminal Access Controller Access-Control System Plus) is used in Cisco ISE to manage administrative access to network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls. Unlike RADIUS, which authenticates network endpoints, TACACS+ provides detailed command-level authorization, allowing administrators to control precisely which commands each administrative user can execute. This separation of authentication, authorization, and accounting enhances security and accountability, making it easier to track administrative actions and comply with regulatory requirements.

A) TACACS+ is correct because it provides granular control over administrative privileges while centralizing management through ISE. For example, a junior network administrator may be allowed only to view configurations, whereas a senior administrator can modify routing policies or security settings. Every administrative command executed through TACACS+ is logged, providing a detailed audit trail. Integration with ISE enables centralized user identity management, role-based access, and consistent enforcement of administrative permissions across multiple devices.

B) RADIUS is incorrect because RADIUS authenticates endpoints for network access, not administrative command-level control.

C) HTTP is incorrect because HTTP is used for web portals and self-service workflows, not for device administrative access.

D) SNMP is incorrect because SNMP is a monitoring protocol for collecting network statistics, not for controlling administrative access.

TACACS+ is essential for enterprise network security because it ensures that administrative access is both secure and auditable. By providing role-based command authorization, centralized logging, and integration with ISE, TACACS+ helps prevent unauthorized changes, reduces human error, and ensures accountability. Organizations can maintain compliance, enforce least-privilege access, and track administrative activity in real time, making TACACS+ a cornerstone of secure network management.

Question 178

Which ISE feature allows employees to securely register personal devices and automatically receive certificates for network authentication?

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

Answer: A) BYOD

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) BYOD. Cisco ISE BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) enables employees to securely onboard personal devices, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones, to the enterprise network. BYOD provides a self-service portal where employees can register their devices, enroll certificates, and configure network settings automatically. Certificates issued during onboarding ensure secure authentication using 802.1X or other supported authentication methods.

A) BYOD is correct because it automates the onboarding process, reduces IT administrative overhead, and enforces compliance with organizational policies. Integration with posture, profiling, and TrustSec allows ISE to dynamically assess device compliance and assign appropriate access levels based on device type and security status. For example, an enrolled personal laptop may be assigned to a specific VLAN and receive Security Group Tags (SGTs) aligned with its role and compliance. BYOD also supports device lifecycle management, including certificate renewal and device decommissioning.

B) Posture is incorrect because posture evaluates endpoint compliance but does not handle onboarding or certificate deployment.

C) Guest Access is incorrect because guest access provides temporary access for external users, not secure onboarding for employees.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces identity-based segmentation using SGTs, not device registration.

BYOD is critical for enterprises that support mobile devices and remote work, as it ensures that employee-owned devices can securely access corporate resources without compromising security. By automating certificate deployment, access configuration, and policy enforcement, BYOD streamlines IT operations, improves user experience, and integrates with other ISE features to provide a secure, adaptive, and compliant network access framework.

Question 179

Which ISE component collects logs from enforcement nodes and provides real-time dashboards and historical reporting?

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

Answer: A) MnT

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) MnT. Monitoring and Troubleshooting (MnT) nodes in Cisco ISE are responsible for collecting logs from Policy Service Nodes (PSNs), Policy Administration Nodes (PANs), and network devices. MnT provides real-time dashboards, operational monitoring, and historical reporting to help administrators troubleshoot authentication and authorization issues. It allows filtering by endpoint, user, policy, and device type, providing granular visibility into network activity.

A) MnT is correct because it centralizes log collection, monitoring, and reporting. MnT enables administrators to view failed authentications, posture assessment results, BYOD registration events, guest access activity, and policy violations. The collected data supports compliance audits, operational monitoring, and security trend analysis. MnT can also forward events to SIEM platforms for enterprise-wide monitoring.

B) PAN (Policy Administration Node) is responsible for creating, managing, and distributing security policies across a network or system. While it ensures that policies are consistently applied, it does not offer monitoring capabilities, analytics, or dashboards for visibility into network activity or compliance status. Organizations still need dedicated monitoring tools or management platforms to track policy enforcement, detect anomalies, and generate reports. Relying solely on PAN would leave administrators without insight into policy effectiveness or network health, making it insufficient for end-to-end monitoring and observability.

C) PSN is incorrect because PSNs enforce policies but do not provide centralized logging or historical reporting.

D) Guest Node is incorrect because Guest Nodes manage temporary user accounts, not operational monitoring or reporting.

MnT enhances network security and operational efficiency by providing visibility into policy enforcement and endpoint activity. It enables rapid troubleshooting, ensures consistent policy application, and provides historical data for audits and compliance reporting. By integrating MnT with other ISE features, enterprises can maintain a secure, adaptive, and well-monitored network environment.

Question 180

Which ISE feature enforces dynamic access policies based on endpoint type, location, and compliance status?

A) Authorization Policies
B) BYOD
C) Guest Access
D) TrustSec

Answer: A) Authorization Policies

Explanation:

The correct answer is A) Authorization Policies. Authorization Policies in Cisco ISE define what level of network access an endpoint or user receives after successful authentication. These policies evaluate multiple contextual attributes, including device type, location, compliance status, time of day, and user identity. Based on the policy outcome, endpoints may be assigned VLANs, ACLs, or Security Group Tags (SGTs).

A) Authorization Policies is correct because it enables dynamic, context-aware access control. Integration with posture, profiling, BYOD, TrustSec, and Guest Access allows the policy engine to make granular decisions. For example, a compliant corporate laptop may be given full access, a non-compliant BYOD device may be placed in a remediation VLAN, and a visitor may receive temporary limited access. Policies are enforced in real time by Policy Service Nodes (PSNs), ensuring immediate adaptation to changing network conditions.

B) BYOD is incorrect because BYOD is for device onboarding, not dynamic access enforcement.

C) Guest Access is incorrect because guest access manages temporary accounts, not granular, dynamic authorization.

D) TrustSec is incorrect because TrustSec enforces segmentation using SGTs but does not handle the broader context-aware access decision process.

Authorization Policies are central to Cisco ISE’s adaptive network security strategy. They reduce administrative overhead, improve security compliance, and ensure that endpoints receive access appropriate to their identity, compliance, and context. By combining multiple ISE features, these policies enable enterprises to implement zero-trust and role-based access architectures efficiently and securely.