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500-560 Cisco Practice Test Questions and Exam Dumps

Question 1

Which function is available through the web-based user interface of the Cisco Catalyst 9200 switch?

A. opening a case with Cisco Technical Assistance Center
B. providing AMP support
C. monitoring selected sections on the dashboard
D. integrating with compatible Cisco routers

Answer: C

Explanation:
The web-based interface of the Cisco Catalyst 9200 switch, also known as the Web UI or WebUI, provides a user-friendly platform for managing and monitoring the device without relying entirely on command-line inputs. One of its core features is the ability to monitor various operational aspects of the switch through a centralized dashboard.

The dashboard displays detailed status information, such as port activity, traffic levels, system health, memory usage, and CPU load. Users can select specific sections to monitor based on their needs, which makes performance tracking much more efficient. This is particularly helpful in environments where visual monitoring and quick diagnostics are essential for daily operations.

Option A suggests that the WebUI allows users to open a case with Cisco TAC, but this function is not supported directly through the interface. Instead, technical support cases are typically opened through Cisco's official support website or through external management tools integrated into larger Cisco platforms.

Option B mentions AMP support, which refers to Cisco's Advanced Malware Protection. This is a feature associated with security appliances such as Cisco Firepower or AMP for Endpoints. The Catalyst 9200 switch does not provide AMP functionality within its web interface.

Option D refers to integrating with other Cisco routers. While the switch can certainly operate alongside routers within a Cisco infrastructure, the WebUI does not directly handle router integration. Such integrations are typically part of broader network design considerations and are not managed through this particular interface.

Therefore, the only option that accurately reflects a native capability of the Catalyst 9200 web UI is C, which describes the monitoring of selected dashboard sections. This feature enhances usability by offering visual feedback on network conditions and device status, all accessible from a browser-based interface.

The correct answer is C.

Question 2

Which Catalyst 9800 series controller is most appropriate for small branch or campus environments supporting up to 200 access points?

A. Catalyst 9800-80
B. Catalyst 9800-CL
C. Catalyst 9800-40
D. Catalyst 9800-SW

Answer: B

Explanation:
The Cisco Catalyst 9800 series wireless controllers are designed to provide flexible, scalable, and secure wireless control solutions for a variety of deployment scenarios, ranging from small branch offices to large enterprise networks. Each model in the 9800 series is tailored to a specific scale and form factor, allowing organizations to choose the best fit for their infrastructure size, deployment style, and performance requirements.

The Catalyst 9800-CL is a cloud-based or virtual wireless controller, designed specifically for flexibility and scalability in small to medium-sized deployments. It can be deployed in public or private clouds, virtual environments such as VMware ESXi, KVM, and Hyper-V, or on Cisco’s own ENCS platforms. The 9800-CL supports a variety of deployment scales depending on the resources allocated but is recommended for small branch and campus setups supporting up to 200 access points in its lower performance tiers. This makes it an ideal fit for organizations looking for a lightweight, software-based controller with sufficient power for modest environments.

Let’s examine the other options:

A. Catalyst 9800-80 – This is a high-end controller designed for very large enterprise environments. It can support up to 6,000 access points and 64,000 clients, making it excessive and unnecessarily powerful for a small branch or campus. It’s designed for core campus or data center environments.

C. Catalyst 9800-40 – This model supports up to 2,000 access points and 32,000 clients, making it better suited to medium to large enterprise deployments. While it is less powerful than the 9800-80, it still exceeds the needs of a small branch or campus with only 200 access points.

D. Catalyst 9800-SW – This is not an actual Cisco product SKU in the Catalyst 9800 controller lineup. It may be a misrepresentation or a generic term, but it does not refer to a specific, recommended controller model for deployment.

In summary, the Catalyst 9800-CL is specifically tailored for flexible, virtual deployments and is scalable based on configuration. For small branch or campus environments with requirements for up to 200 access points, it offers the right balance of capacity, cost-efficiency, and flexibility.

The correct answer is B.

Question 3

What specific role does the third dedicated radio serve in Meraki MR access points?

A. RF optimization (Auto RF)
B. Site survey planning
C. DHCP addressing
D. WLAN controller

Answer: A

Explanation:
Meraki MR access points often include a third, dedicated radio that plays a crucial role in maintaining and optimizing wireless network performance. Unlike the primary radios that handle client traffic (usually for 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands), this third radio is not used for data transmission. Instead, it functions as a sensor that constantly monitors the wireless environment.

The main function of this third radio is RF optimization, commonly referred to as Auto RF in Cisco Meraki terminology. Auto RF is a suite of automated tools that helps improve the wireless experience by dynamically adjusting access point settings such as channel selection and transmit power. This optimization is based on real-time data gathered by the third radio about the surrounding RF conditions, including channel utilization, interference, noise, and the presence of rogue access points.

Option A is correct because this dedicated radio is used specifically for continuous scanning of the wireless spectrum. It collects information needed to perform automated channel and power adjustments, ensuring better coverage, minimizing interference, and optimizing performance across the network. Without this function, network administrators would have to rely on manual configurations or scheduled scans, which would be less efficient and reactive.

Option B, site survey planning, is not handled directly by the access point's radio hardware. While Meraki provides tools for wireless planning and simulation, actual site surveys are typically conducted using dedicated tools or during pre-deployment testing phases, not as an ongoing role of the third radio.

Option C, DHCP addressing, refers to assigning IP addresses to clients. This is a network function typically handled by a DHCP server, which may reside on the access point or on a separate network device. The third radio does not manage DHCP tasks.

Option D, WLAN controller, refers to the centralized management of wireless access points, typically done via Meraki’s cloud-based dashboard. This functionality is not a role of the third radio; instead, it is part of the overall network architecture supported through the cloud interface.

Therefore, the only function correctly performed by the third, dedicated radio in MR access points is RF optimization, making A the correct answer.

Question 4

In what way does Cisco DNA Spaces streamline the use of location-based services?

A. Cisco DNA Spaces focuses exclusively on customer behavior.
B. Cisco DNA Spaces uses multiple dashboards for customers to segregate data.
C. Cisco DNA Spaces provides a single pan.
D. Cisco DNA Spaces is run on-premises.

Answer: C

Explanation:
Cisco DNA Spaces is a cloud-based platform that provides advanced location analytics and services for wireless networks. It acts as a bridge between the physical and digital worlds, allowing organizations to gain insights into customer behavior, optimize physical spaces, and deliver contextual experiences. The platform integrates with Cisco wireless infrastructure to collect data from access points and other network devices and translates it into actionable insights using intelligent dashboards and analytics tools.

One of the major advantages of Cisco DNA Spaces is that it simplifies location services by offering a "single pane of glass" for managing and visualizing data. This means that administrators and stakeholders can access all necessary tools, analytics, and dashboards through a centralized, unified interface, rather than switching between multiple systems or dashboards. This single interface is designed to streamline operations, reduce complexity, and improve user experience by consolidating insights into one accessible platform.

Let’s break down each of the options:

A. Cisco DNA Spaces focuses exclusively on customer behavior.
This is incorrect. While Cisco DNA Spaces does provide customer behavior analytics, that is only one part of its broader capability. It also tracks assets, monitors space utilization, ensures compliance, and supports safety and health applications. So, it does not focus exclusively on customer behavior.

B. Cisco DNA Spaces uses multiple dashboards for customers to segregate data.
This is incorrect. In fact, the goal of DNA Spaces is to reduce complexity, not increase it. Using multiple dashboards would complicate access and reduce the platform’s usability. Instead, it emphasizes a consolidated experience through a single, streamlined dashboard.

C. Cisco DNA Spaces provides a single pan.
This is correct. Though the option is abbreviated, it likely refers to the term “single pane of glass,” which is a common IT phrase meaning a unified management interface. Cisco DNA Spaces delivers this by centralizing analytics, visualization, device management, and configuration within one coherent interface.

D. Cisco DNA Spaces is run on-premises.
This is incorrect. Cisco DNA Spaces is a cloud-based service, not an on-premises solution. This architecture allows for greater scalability, faster updates, and easier deployment compared to traditional on-premises platforms.

In conclusion, Cisco DNA Spaces simplifies location services by consolidating all features and analytics into a single pane of glass interface. This makes it easier for businesses to extract meaningful insights and act on them without needing to manage multiple tools or interfaces.

The correct answer is C.

Question 5

Which Cisco AirOS-based physical controller is suitable for a customer who needs to manage a network with up to 150 access points?

A. Mobility Express
B. Cisco 8540
C. Cisco 3504
D. Cisco vWLC

Answer: C

Explanation:
When choosing a Cisco wireless controller, the number of access points (APs) to be managed plays a critical role in determining the appropriate model. Cisco offers a variety of wireless controllers under the AirOS family, designed to support different deployment sizes and management preferences, including both physical and virtual options.

The Cisco 3504 Wireless Controller is a compact, physical controller that is well-suited for small to medium-sized enterprise environments. One of its defining features is its ability to manage up to 150 access points, which aligns perfectly with the requirement stated in the question. It is designed to provide high performance, with built-in redundancy features and advanced services including application visibility, flexible deployment modes, and support for the latest wireless standards. It is a commonly recommended choice for customers needing a reliable physical controller without the capacity or cost of large-scale enterprise controllers.

Option A, Mobility Express, is not a physical controller but rather a software-based solution embedded within certain Cisco access points. It is best suited for very small networks—usually under 50 APs—and is designed for quick deployments in branch offices or small businesses. While useful for its simplicity and cost-efficiency, it does not meet the needs of managing up to 150 APs.

Option B, Cisco 8540, is a high-capacity enterprise-grade physical controller capable of managing up to 6,000 APs. Although it would technically meet the requirement for 150 APs, it is far beyond what is necessary for this scale and would likely be cost-inefficient and excessive in capability for the customer described.

Option D, Cisco vWLC (Virtual Wireless LAN Controller), is a virtual solution designed for cloud-based or virtualized environments. While it does support managing up to 200 APs depending on the license and server resources, it is not a physical controller as requested in the question. This disqualifies it as an appropriate option in this scenario.

Given the specific need for a physical controller that can handle up to 150 access points, the Cisco 3504 strikes the right balance in terms of capacity, functionality, and cost, making C the most appropriate and recommended choice.

Question 6

What features are provided in the default IP Base license package for the Cisco ISR 900 series routers?

A. routing protocols, quality of service, and basic connectivity
B. basic connectivity, VPN, and Zone Based Firewall
C. routing protocols, quality of service, basic connectivity, VPN
D. routing protocols, Zone Based Firewall, and MPLS

Answer: A

Explanation:
The Cisco ISR (Integrated Services Router) 900 series is a compact, high-performance branch router that delivers essential connectivity and services for small offices and remote branches. These routers use a tiered licensing model with different feature sets, and the IP Base package is the default model included with the hardware. Understanding what’s included in this base package is important for making decisions about additional licensing needs, depending on the desired services.

The IP Base license for the ISR 900 series includes basic networking features necessary for standard routing and network operation. These typically consist of:

• Routing protocols, such as static routing and some dynamic protocols (e.g., EIGRP stub, RIP).

• Quality of Service (QoS) features, which help prioritize and manage traffic flows.

• Basic connectivity, including Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, DHCP, NAT, and other foundational capabilities.

This makes option A the correct choice, as it aligns with the core functionalities offered in the IP Base model.

Now let’s analyze why the other options are incorrect:

B. basic connectivity, VPN, and Zone Based Firewall
This option includes VPN and Zone-Based Firewall, both of which are not included in the default IP Base license. These security-related features are part of the Security license package, which must be purchased separately.

C. routing protocols, quality of service, basic connectivity, VPN
Although most of these features do belong to the IP Base package, VPN support is again not included in the default license. VPN functionalities such as IPsec and SSL VPN require the Security license, so this choice is incorrect.

D. routing protocols, Zone Based Firewall, and MPLS
This includes two features that are outside the IP Base scope. Zone-Based Firewall is a security feature, and MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching) is an advanced WAN feature. Both of these require additional licensing, specifically the Security and AppX licenses, respectively. Therefore, this choice overstates what the default license includes.

In summary, the IP Base license provides the fundamental capabilities necessary for most small to medium branch deployments, focusing on routing, QoS, and standard network connectivity. Features such as VPN, firewall, and MPLS require upgraded license packages.

The correct answer is A.

Question 7

What secure and cost-effective remote access solution enables businesses to expand their network to branch offices, remote workers, customers, and partners globally?

A. Cisco Remote Access VPN
B. Cisco Cyber Threat Defense & Network Analytics
C. Cisco Next Generation Intrusion Prevention System
D. Cisco Email Security

Answer: A

Explanation:
For businesses seeking to provide secure connectivity to remote users and offices, Cisco Remote Access VPN is a widely adopted and trusted solution. This technology enables employees, contractors, customers, and business partners to connect to an organization's internal network from remote locations through secure, encrypted communication channels over the internet. It plays a vital role in supporting flexible work environments while maintaining high levels of security.

Remote Access VPNs are typically deployed using software clients or built-in operating system features on endpoint devices, allowing users to authenticate and securely access network resources such as internal applications, file systems, or databases. Cisco’s Remote Access VPN solutions use IPsec or SSL encryption standards, ensuring that data transmitted across public networks remains private and protected against interception or tampering.

Option B, Cisco Cyber Threat Defense & Network Analytics, focuses on identifying threats, detecting anomalies, and analyzing traffic patterns. While it is valuable for overall cybersecurity, it is not a direct solution for remote connectivity or extending the network to external users.

Option C, Cisco Next Generation Intrusion Prevention System (NGIPS), is designed to detect and prevent malicious activity within a network by inspecting traffic for threats or policy violations. While critical for security infrastructure, it is not a solution that provides remote access capabilities.

Option D, Cisco Email Security, is aimed at protecting an organization from email-based threats such as phishing, malware, and spam. Although this contributes to a business’s security posture, it does not extend network access nor provide remote connectivity.

In contrast, Cisco Remote Access VPN is designed specifically for the use case mentioned in the question. It facilitates highly secure, cost-effective connections that allow branch offices, telecommuters, customers, and partners to interact with internal resources as though they were onsite. This makes it especially relevant in today’s increasingly distributed work environments, where secure remote access is essential for productivity and business continuity.

Therefore, the most accurate and relevant choice is A.

Question 8

Which of the following product SKUs corresponds to a Mobility Express capable access point?

A. AIR-AP1815I-K9C
B. AIR-AP1815W-x-K9
C. AIR-AP2802I-K9
D. AIR-AP1852I-K9

Answer: A

Explanation:
Cisco Mobility Express is a solution that allows certain access points (APs) to act as both a controller and an access point. This is particularly useful for small and medium-sized deployments where using a separate wireless LAN controller (WLC) may be overkill or financially impractical. Instead, a Mobility Express-capable AP runs a virtual wireless controller and provides WLAN management to other APs in the network.

In the context of Cisco SKUs (stock keeping units), identifying Mobility Express-capable APs usually involves looking for certain SKU suffixes that indicate they come with the Mobility Express image preinstalled. One of the common suffixes is -K9C, where C stands for the Mobility Express controller image. This distinguishes the product from standard lightweight image SKUs that require a separate controller.

Let’s analyze each option:

A. AIR-AP1815I-K9C
This is the correct answer. The AIR-AP1815I-K9C is a Mobility Express-capable access point. The 1815 series supports Mobility Express, and the -K9C indicates that the unit is preloaded with the controller image, allowing it to function as a virtual controller for up to 50 APs in a deployment.

B. AIR-AP1815W-x-K9
This is not correct. While the 1815W is a wall-mountable access point used in hospitality or branch deployments, the -x-K9 (where "x" indicates a regulatory domain) is a lightweight image, not the Mobility Express image. These units typically require a separate WLC to operate and don’t come pre-configured with controller functionality.

C. AIR-AP2802I-K9
This access point belongs to the 2800 series, which supports Mobility Express as a feature, but this specific SKU -K9 does not indicate it has the controller image by default. Instead, you’d typically need to convert the image if you wanted to use Mobility Express, making it less ideal as a default ME SKU.

D. AIR-AP1852I-K9
Similar to the 2800 series, the 1852 series does support Mobility Express, but the -K9 SKU does not include the ME controller image out of the box. To use it with Mobility Express, you would need to manually install the Mobility Express image or order a -K9C variant.

Therefore, when identifying SKUs specifically configured for Mobility Express, the presence of -K9C in the SKU is key. These devices are delivered with the Mobility Express image pre-installed and are ready to function as both an access point and a wireless controller.

The correct answer is A.

Question 9

Which of the following is a common challenge encountered by Express Specialization Networking customers?

A. do-it-yourself approach to network management
B. low number of devices connected to the network
C. shrinking IT budget and resource scarcity
D. large, highly bureaucratic IT departments

Answer: C

Explanation:
Customers in the Express Specialization Networking category typically consist of small to medium-sized businesses or distributed enterprises. These organizations often face operational and financial limitations compared to larger corporations, which impacts how they approach their IT infrastructure, network deployment, and support strategies. One of the most prominent and recurring challenges for such customers is shrinking IT budgets and limited technical resources.

Option C, which mentions shrinking IT budget and resource scarcity, reflects this situation accurately. These organizations frequently work within constrained budgets, limiting their ability to hire specialized IT staff or invest in large-scale infrastructure. As a result, they need efficient, scalable, and easy-to-manage networking solutions that provide enterprise-grade performance without requiring deep technical expertise or substantial upfront investment.

Option A, the do-it-yourself approach to network management, may sometimes occur in smaller businesses. However, it is not a primary challenge but rather a consequence of limited resources. It reflects a behavioral response to budget constraints rather than being a core challenge itself.

Option B, low number of devices connected to the network, is typically not a significant concern. In fact, even smaller businesses are increasingly connecting numerous devices such as laptops, mobile phones, IoT sensors, and printers. The number of connected devices continues to rise, even in smaller environments, due to trends like BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) and cloud service access.

Option D, large, highly bureaucratic IT departments, is more characteristic of large enterprises or government organizations. It is not usually an issue for Express Specialization Networking customers, who generally have lean IT teams or may outsource their IT operations due to lack of in-house expertise.

The key issue, therefore, is how these customers can achieve secure, reliable, and scalable networking with minimal overhead. Cisco’s Express Specialization addresses these challenges by providing simplified, modular solutions designed to be easy to deploy and manage, with features such as cloud-based monitoring, plug-and-play capabilities, and automated configurations.

Ultimately, the challenge that most accurately defines the typical struggles of this customer segment is C: the constant pressure of doing more with less—balancing growing technology needs against tight budgets and limited staff.

Question 10

What is typically required by a small branch office to operate efficiently?

A. comprehensive subscription-based services
B. ability for users to access the majority of resources at off-site data storage
C. multiple devices for optimal flexibility
D. multiple network services integrated into a single device

Answer: D

Explanation:
Small branch offices have distinct IT infrastructure needs compared to larger enterprise sites. These smaller locations often operate with limited physical space, a smaller number of users, reduced IT staffing, and tighter budgets. Therefore, their networking solutions need to be efficient, easy to manage, and capable of supporting a range of services within a compact and cost-effective footprint.

Option D — “multiple network services integrated into a single device” — directly aligns with what small branches typically require. These services can include routing, switching, firewall protection, WAN optimization, wireless access, and sometimes even voice services. Having all of these integrated into a single device, such as a Cisco ISR (Integrated Services Router), greatly simplifies deployment, management, and maintenance. It also reduces capital and operational expenditures because fewer devices need to be purchased, installed, powered, and cooled.

Let’s look at why the other options are less appropriate for the needs of a small branch:

A. comprehensive subscription-based services
While subscription-based services, such as cloud-managed networking or security monitoring, are valuable, they are not the primary requirement for a small branch. Such services may be part of a long-term strategy or a larger enterprise architecture, but the immediate need is a functional, localized solution that minimizes complexity and cost.

B. ability for users to access the majority of resources at off-site data storage
Cloud and remote storage access is increasingly common, but this does not directly address the on-site networking requirements. While connectivity to cloud resources is essential, it still depends on having reliable local network infrastructure. A small branch still needs local network services such as routing, DHCP, and firewall protection, which are better addressed by a local integrated device.

C. multiple devices for optimal flexibility
This is generally the opposite of what a small branch needs. Managing multiple devices adds complexity, increases costs, and introduces more points of failure. A small branch is better served by a converged solution that combines multiple services into a single device, not by spreading them across many.

In conclusion, the key for a small branch is simplicity, cost-efficiency, and functional versatility, which is best achieved through devices that integrate multiple network services. This reduces infrastructure overhead and supports essential operations in environments that lack dedicated IT personnel or infrastructure budgets.

The correct answer is D.