Courseiva

CCNA 200-301 v2 (200-301) — Questions 151225

1389 questions total · 19pages · All types, answers revealed

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151
PBQhard

You are connected to a multilayer switch MLS1. Configure FastEthernet0/1 as an access port for an IP phone and a PC, with voice VLAN 20 and data VLAN 10. Also enable PoE on the port. Then verify the configuration using 'show interfaces switchport' and 'show power inline'.

Hints

  • The interface currently has 'no switchport' — remove that to make it a Layer 2 port.
  • You need to set both access VLAN and voice VLAN using the switchport command.
  • PoE is currently disabled globally or per interface — enable it with 'power inline auto'.
A.interface FastEthernet0/1 switchport mode access switchport access vlan 10 switchport voice vlan 20 power inline auto no shutdown
B.interface FastEthernet0/1 no switchport ip address 192.168.1.1 255.255.255.0 power inline auto no shutdown
C.interface FastEthernet0/1 switchport mode trunk switchport trunk allowed vlan 10,20 power inline auto no shutdown
D.interface FastEthernet0/1 switchport mode access switchport access vlan 10 switchport voice vlan 20 power inline never no shutdown
AnswerA
solution
! MLS1
configure terminal
interface FastEthernet0/1
switchport mode access
switchport access vlan 10
switchport voice vlan 20
power inline auto
end

Why this answer

It configures FastEthernet0/1 as an access port with data VLAN 10, voice VLAN 20, and PoE enabled, which is the required setup for an IP phone and PC. Option B is incorrect because 'no switchport' makes the interface a routed port (Layer 3), but it needs to be a Layer 2 access port to support an IP phone and PC. Option C is incorrect because trunk mode is used for switch-to-switch links, not for connecting end devices like an IP phone and PC.

Option D is incorrect because 'power inline never' disables PoE, but the IP phone requires power; it should use 'power inline auto'.

Exam trap

The trap is that candidates may incorrectly use 'no switchport' to make the interface a routed port, or use trunk mode instead of access mode with voice VLAN. Remember that for end devices, the port must be an access port; the voice VLAN is configured separately. Also, ensure PoE is enabled with 'auto', not 'never'.

Why the other options are wrong

B

'no switchport' creates a routed port, which cannot handle VLANs for an IP phone and PC.

C

Trunk mode is for inter-switch links, not for end devices; access mode is required.

D

'power inline never' disables PoE, but the IP phone needs power from the switch.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think a routed port is needed for the phone or that an IP address must be assigned to the interface.

C

Candidates may confuse trunking with the ability to carry voice and data VLANs, not realizing that the switch uses the voice VLAN feature on an access port.

D

Candidates might think 'never' is a valid option to conserve power or misunderstand the PoE configuration commands.

152
Multi-Selectmedium

A switch port is configured with port-security violation mode restrict. Which two statements are true when an unauthorized MAC address appears?

Select 2 answers
A.Frames from the unauthorized MAC are dropped
B.The port remains up
C.The interface immediately goes into err-disabled state
D.The switch converts the port to a trunk automatically
E.The violation mode changes itself to shutdown after three attempts
AnswersA, B

In restrict mode, the switch filters out frames sourced from the violating MAC address while still permitting traffic from other authorized MACs. The port remains operational and continues to forward legitimate frames, but the offending source address is effectively blacklisted at the port level. This is distinct from protect mode, which silently drops, and shutdown mode, which disables the port.

Why this answer

Restrict drops frames from violating MAC addresses and can increment the violation counter while keeping the port up. Shutdown would err-disable the port instead.

Exam trap

Do not confuse restrict with shutdown mode; restrict does not disable the port.

Why the other options are wrong

C

In restrict mode, the interface does not go into err-disabled state; it stays up and drops frames from unauthorized MACs while logging the violation.

D

In port-security violation mode 'restrict', the switch does not automatically convert the port to a trunk; it only drops frames from unauthorized MACs and logs the violation.

E

In restrict mode, the switch does not change the violation mode to shutdown after any number of attempts; it simply drops frames from unauthorized MACs and logs the violation. The mode remains restrict indefinitely.

When would these options actually be correct?

C

This option would be correct if the question specified port-security violation mode shutdown, where the interface immediately enters err-disabled state upon a violation.

D

This would be correct if the question asked about a switch feature like Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) where the port automatically negotiates trunking, or if the port was configured with 'switchport mode dynamic desirable' and the connected device is a trunk-capable switch.

E

This would be correct if the question specified that the port-security violation mode is shutdown and asked about the behavior after three violations. In that case, the port would enter err-disabled state after three attempts.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

C

Candidates may confuse restrict mode with shutdown mode, as both are common port-security violation actions, but only shutdown causes err-disabled.

D

Candidates may confuse port-security violation actions with other switch features like trunk auto-negotiation, or mistakenly think that security violations trigger port mode changes.

E

Candidates may confuse restrict mode with shutdown mode, or think that restrict mode escalates to shutdown after repeated violations, similar to how some security features have a threshold-based response.

153
Multi-Selectmedium

Which TWO commands would a network administrator use to verify that a client has received a valid IP address from a DHCP server and can resolve domain names to IP addresses?

Select 2 answers
A.ipconfig /all
B.ping 127.0.0.1
C.tracert 8.8.8.8
D.nslookup www.courseiva.com
E.arp -a
AnswersA, D

`ipconfig /all` provides comprehensive details about a client's network configuration. It explicitly displays the IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and crucially, the DHCP server's IP address and lease information, directly confirming successful DHCP assignment. Furthermore, it lists the configured DNS server addresses, which are essential for the client's ability to resolve domain names to IP addresses. This command thus satisfies both verification requirements outlined in the question.

Why this answer

(ipconfig /all) is correct because it displays the full TCP/IP configuration for all network adapters, including whether DHCP is enabled, the assigned IP address, subnet mask, default gateway, and the DHCP server address. This allows the administrator to confirm that the client received a valid IP address from the DHCP server. Option D (nslookup www.courseiva.com) is correct because it queries the configured DNS server to resolve the domain name to an IP address, verifying that name resolution is working.

Option B (ping 127.0.0.1) only tests the local TCP/IP stack and does not verify DHCP assignment or DNS resolution. Option C (tracert 8.8.8.8) uses an IP address directly and does not test domain-name resolution. Option E (arp -a) displays the ARP cache, which is unrelated to DHCP or DNS.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction between verifying local IP stack functionality (ping 127.0.0.1) versus verifying DHCP address assignment and DNS resolution, leading candidates to mistakenly choose loopback or traceroute commands that do not validate the specific requirements.

Why the other options are wrong

B

ping 127.0.0.1 only tests the local TCP/IP stack and does not verify DHCP address assignment or DNS resolution.

C

tracert 8.8.8.8 uses an IP address directly and does not test domain-name resolution.

E

arp -a displays the ARP cache, which is unrelated to DHCP or DNS.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students may mistakenly think that a successful ping to the loopback address confirms overall network connectivity, including DHCP and DNS. However, it only verifies that the TCP/IP protocol is installed and functioning on the local machine.

C

Since 'tracert' can show network path and connectivity, test-takers might assume it also verifies DHCP and DNS. However, it does not provide information about the client's IP address or DNS server settings.

E

Because ARP is involved in local network communication, some students might think it relates to IP address assignment or DNS. However, ARP operates at Layer 2 and is unrelated to DHCP or DNS functionality.

154
MCQhard

A phone and PC share one switchport. The phone registers successfully, but the workstation receives an address from the wrong subnet. Which explanation is strongest?

A.The workstation is likely in the wrong data VLAN even though the phone is in the correct voice VLAN.
B.If the phone works, the data VLAN must also be correct automatically.
C.The problem must be CAPWAP because phones require AP controllers.
D.The phone registration proves that DHCP cannot be the issue for the PC.
AnswerA

On a Cisco access port configured for voice, the switchport uses both an access VLAN (for the PC) and a separate voice VLAN (for the phone), and these are independent Layer 2 domains. If the phone registers, the voice VLAN, its SVI, and the DHCP scope for that subnet are working, but the PC remains dependent on the data/access VLAN's own SVI and DHCP service. Therefore a successful phone registration strongly suggests the data VLAN is misconfigured or mismatched with the PC's intended subnet.

Why this answer

The phone and PC share a single switchport configured with separate voice and data VLANs. The phone successfully registers in the voice VLAN, but the workstation receives an IP address from the wrong subnet, indicating it is placed in an incorrect data VLAN. This typically occurs when the switchport's access VLAN (data VLAN) is misconfigured or mismatched with the workstation's expected subnet, while the voice VLAN (often using 802.1Q tagging) is correctly set for the phone.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the misconception that if the phone works, the entire port configuration is correct, but the trap here is that the voice and data VLANs are independent, so a misconfigured access VLAN can still cause the PC to receive an incorrect IP address.

Why the other options are wrong

B

This statement is incorrect because voice and data VLANs are independent on a switchport configured with separate VLANs. The phone successfully registering on the voice VLAN does not guarantee that the data VLAN is correctly configured; the PC could still be assigned to a different VLAN or subnet due to misconfiguration.

C

CAPWAP (Control and Provisioning of Wireless Access Points) is a protocol used for wireless LAN controller and access point communication, not for wired switchport configuration. The scenario describes a wired phone and PC sharing a switchport, which is unrelated to wireless controllers.

D

The phone's successful registration does not rule out DHCP issues for the PC. The PC could be receiving an IP address from a DHCP server that is on the wrong subnet or VLAN, or the DHCP relay might be misconfigured for the data VLAN. The phone's DHCP success is independent of the PC's DHCP process.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a different scenario where a question states that both the phone and workstation are configured to use the same VLAN, and the phone registers successfully while the workstation fails to get an IP address, option B could be correct, indicating that the data VLAN is indeed functioning properly.

C

In a different scenario where the question involves a wireless phone that connects to a network through an AP (Access Point) managed by a controller, and the question asks about issues related to phone registration and CAPWAP, this option could be correct if it were established that the phone's registration was failing due to CAPWAP misconfiguration.

D

In a different scenario, if a question states that both the phone and PC are on the same VLAN and the phone registers successfully while the PC fails to obtain an address, then this option could be correct, suggesting that DHCP is functioning properly for the phone but not for the PC due to other issues.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

A student might think that if the phone works, the entire port configuration is correct, overlooking that the phone and PC use different VLANs. This confusion arises from not understanding that a single port can carry multiple VLANs with separate configurations.

C

Students might confuse the phone (IP phone) with a wireless access point, or think that any phone registration involves CAPWAP. However, IP phones typically use PoE and VLAN configuration on switches, not CAPWAP.

D

A student might assume that if DHCP works for one device on the same port, it should work for all devices. However, because the phone and PC are on different VLANs, they may use different DHCP servers or scopes, and the PC's DHCP request might be handled incorrectly.

155
MCQhard

Why does traffic to 172.31.80.10 use the RIP route (172.31.80.0/24) instead of the static route (172.31.0.0/16)?

A.Because the RIP /24 route is more specific than the static /16 route.
B.Because RIP always overrides static routing.
C.Because static routes cannot be used for private IPv4 space.
D.Because the static route is automatically removed whenever RIP is enabled.
AnswerA

Longest-prefix match dictates that the route with the greatest number of matching bits is always used for forwarding, regardless of administrative distance or route source. The /24 prefix 172.31.80.0/24 exactly matches 172.31.80.10, whereas the /16 prefix 172.31.0.0/16 is less specific and covers a broader range. Therefore, the RIP-advertised /24 route is chosen for this destination because it provides a more precise match.

Why this answer

Traffic uses the RIP route because the static route is less specific than the RIP route. In practical terms, longest-prefix match is always evaluated first. Even though the static route is manually configured, the more specific RIP prefix wins because it describes the destination more precisely.

This is a strong route-selection item because it tests whether you can prioritize specificity ahead of route source preference.

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is assuming that static routes always take precedence over RIP routes because static routes have a lower administrative distance. This misconception ignores the critical role of longest-prefix match in route selection. The router first selects the route with the most specific subnet mask before considering administrative distance.

Therefore, a RIP route with a /24 mask will override a static route with a /16 mask for matching traffic. Another trap is thinking that enabling RIP disables or removes static routes, which is incorrect; static routes remain active unless explicitly removed or overridden by a more specific route.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Incorrect because RIP does not always override static routes. Static routes have a lower administrative distance and are preferred when prefix lengths are equal, so this statement is false.

C

Incorrect because static routes can be used with private IPv4 address space without issue. There is no restriction preventing static routing of private addresses.

D

Incorrect because enabling RIP does not automatically remove static routes. Static routes remain active unless manually removed or overridden by a more specific route.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a scenario where a question states that a routing protocol has a lower administrative distance than static routes, and asks why a specific route is being used, option B would be correct. For example, if the question indicated that RIP had a lower administrative distance than the static route, then this option would accurately describe the behavior.

C

In a different exam scenario, if the question asked whether static routes can be used with specific routing protocols in a network design involving public IPs only, option C could be correct if the context specified that static routes were not permitted for private addressing due to policy or design constraints.

D

In a different scenario where a question states that static routes are configured with a specific command to be removed when a dynamic routing protocol like RIP is enabled, option D would be correct. For example, if the question specifies that the static route is configured with a 'remove' command upon RIP activation, then this option would apply.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students may mistakenly think that dynamic routing protocols always take precedence over static routes, but in reality, static routes can be preferred if they are more specific or have a lower administrative distance.

C

Some test-takers might confuse private addressing with the fact that certain routing protocols (like BGP) have restrictions on private addresses, but static routes have no such limitation.

D

Students might think that enabling a dynamic routing protocol clears all static routes, but in Cisco IOS, static routes persist and can coexist with dynamic routes.

156
Drag & Dropmedium

Drag and drop the following troubleshooting steps into the correct order to diagnose a client connectivity issue using the OSI bottom-up method. The client cannot access a web server by its FQDN.

Drag steps to the numbered slots on the right, or tap a step then tap a slot.

Steps
Order
1Step 1
2Step 2
3Step 3
4Step 4

Why this order

The bottom-up OSI troubleshooting approach starts at Layer 1 (physical) and moves upward. For this scenario (client cannot access web server by FQDN), the correct order is: first check physical connectivity (Layer 1), then check data link layer (Layer 2) for MAC and VLAN issues, then check network layer (Layer 3) for IP configuration, and finally check application layer (Layer 7) for DNS resolution. This systematic approach ensures lower-layer issues are ruled out before investigating higher-layer problems.

Exam trap

The trap is that candidates often jump to DNS or IP configuration because the symptom involves an FQDN, but the bottom-up method requires starting at Layer 1. Remember: always start at the bottom of the OSI model when using this approach.

157
Multi-Selectmedium

Which two statements accurately describe longest-prefix match in routing?

Select 2 answers
A.The most specific matching route is preferred over broader matching routes.
B.A default route is preferred over a matching /24 because it is simpler.
C.Longest-prefix match is evaluated before choosing between broader and narrower matching routes.
D.Routers ignore subnet masks and choose only by administrative distance.
E.A /16 is always more specific than a /24.
AnswersA, C

This is the definition of longest-prefix match: among all routes in the routing table that match a destination IP, the one with the longest prefix length (i.e., the most network bits) is chosen. For example, a /24 match beats a /16 match because it identifies a smaller, more exact network. This preference is fundamental to IP routing.

Why this answer

Longest-prefix match means a router prefers the most specific route that matches the destination. In plain language, if several entries could apply to a packet, the router chooses the one that narrows the destination range most precisely. This is why a /25 can beat a /24, and a /24 can beat a /16, even if all three technically contain the same destination address.

The common mistake is to assume the router always begins with protocol trust or metric. Those factors matter, but only after the router has determined which matching routes share the same prefix length.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is assuming that a default route or a route with a simpler prefix is preferred over a more specific route. Some candidates mistakenly believe that administrative distance or metric always takes precedence over prefix length. However, Cisco routers always apply longest-prefix match first, selecting the most specific route before considering administrative distance or metric.

This misunderstanding can lead to incorrect answers when default routes or broader prefixes appear in the routing table alongside more specific routes.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Option B is incorrect because a default route is less specific than a /24 route and is only used if no more specific route exists, not because it is simpler.

D

Option D is incorrect because routers do not ignore subnet masks; prefix length is fundamental to longest-prefix match and route selection.

E

Option E is incorrect since a /24 prefix is more specific than a /16 prefix, contradicting the statement that a /16 is always more specific.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a different question that asks about route selection based solely on simplicity and not specificity, option B could be correct if it states that a default route is chosen for its simplicity in a scenario where multiple routes exist but none match the destination exactly.

D

In a question focused on routing protocols that only consider administrative distance for route selection, such as when comparing static routes to dynamic routes, this option could be correct if the context specifies that subnet masks are not evaluated.

E

In a different scenario where the question asks about the relationship between subnet masks and routing preferences without specifying the context of longest-prefix matching, a question could state that a /16 is preferred for certain administrative tasks, making this statement correct in that context.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students may think that a default route is a catch-all and might be preferred for simplicity, but they forget that longest-prefix match prioritizes specificity over simplicity.

D

Test-takers may confuse the role of administrative distance with prefix length, thinking that AD is the primary factor in route selection, but it only applies after longest-prefix match.

E

Students might mistakenly think that a larger number (16 vs 24) indicates more specificity, but in prefix length, a larger number means a longer mask and thus more specificity.

158
PBQhard

You are connected to R1. Configure R1 so that it uses a floating static route to reach the 203.0.113.0/24 network via R2 only when the primary route (learned via EIGRP) fails. The primary route has an administrative distance of 90. Currently, R1 has no route to 203.0.113.0/24 because EIGRP is down on the direct link. Ensure the floating static route is installed and used.

Network Topology
G0/010.0.0.1/30G0/010.0.0.2/30linkG0/1192.0.2.1/24linkR1R2LAN

Hints

  • The primary route would be learned via EIGRP with AD 90.
  • A floating static route must have an AD higher than 90 to be less preferred.
  • Use the 'ip route' command with an AD value between 91 and 255.
A.ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2 95
B.ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2 90
C.ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2 85
D.ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2
AnswerA
solution
! R1
ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2 95

Why this answer

The issue is that R1 has no route to 203.0.113.0/24 because EIGRP is not working (likely due to misconfiguration or link failure). A floating static route with an administrative distance greater than EIGRP's default AD of 90 is needed. By configuring a static route to 203.0.113.0/24 via next-hop 10.0.0.2 with AD 95, the static route will be used only when EIGRP is down (since 95 > 90, EIGRP is preferred when active).

The command 'ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2 95' accomplishes this.

Exam trap

Remember that floating static routes require an administrative distance higher than the primary route's AD. Do not use the default AD (1) or match the primary AD; always set a higher value.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The AD must be greater than 90 to ensure the static route is only used when EIGRP fails. An AD of 90 does not create a floating static route.

C

A floating static route must have a higher AD than the primary route. An AD of 85 is lower than 90, so it would be preferred over EIGRP.

D

The default AD for static routes is 1, which is lower than EIGRP's 90. Without specifying a higher AD, the static route will be preferred and not act as a floating static route.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates may think that matching the AD is sufficient, but floating static routes require a higher AD to be less preferred.

C

Candidates might think a lower AD is better, but for a backup route, you want it to be less preferred.

D

Candidates may forget to specify an AD and assume the static route will automatically be a backup, but the default AD makes it primary.

159
PBQmedium

You are connected to R1 via console. R1 is a router that needs to provide DHCP services to hosts on VLAN 10 (192.168.10.0/24) and VLAN 20 (192.168.20.0/24). The router has two subinterfaces on GigabitEthernet0/0: G0/0.10 (192.168.10.1/24) and G0/0.20 (192.168.20.1/24) with 802.1Q encapsulation. Configure R1 as a DHCP server for both VLANs, excluding addresses 192.168.10.1-10 and 192.168.20.1-10, with a lease of 1 day. Ensure DNS server 8.8.8.8 is provided.

Network Topology
G0/0.10192.168.10.1/24trunkR1SW1

Hints

  • Use 'ip dhcp excluded-address' to reserve addresses.
  • Create DHCP pools with 'network', 'default-router', and 'dns-server'.
  • Lease time is in days; use 'lease 1' for 1 day.
A.ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.10.1 192.168.10.10 ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.20.1 192.168.20.10 ip dhcp pool VLAN10 network 192.168.10.0 255.255.255.0 default-router 192.168.10.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 1 ip dhcp pool VLAN20 network 192.168.20.0 255.255.255.0 default-router 192.168.20.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 1
B.ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.10.1 192.168.10.10 ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.20.1 192.168.20.10 ip dhcp pool VLAN10 network 192.168.10.0 /24 default-router 192.168.10.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 1 0 0 ip dhcp pool VLAN20 network 192.168.20.0 /24 default-router 192.168.20.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 1 0 0
C.ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.10.1 192.168.10.10 ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.20.1 192.168.20.10 ip dhcp pool VLAN10 network 192.168.10.0 255.255.255.0 default-router 192.168.10.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 24 ip dhcp pool VLAN20 network 192.168.20.0 255.255.255.0 default-router 192.168.20.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 24
D.ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.10.1 192.168.10.10 ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.20.1 192.168.20.10 ip dhcp pool VLAN10 network 192.168.10.0 255.255.255.0 default-router 192.168.10.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 24 ip dhcp pool VLAN20 network 192.168.20.0 255.255.255.0 default-router 192.168.20.1 dns-server 8.8.8.8 lease 24
AnswerA
solution
! R1
ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.10.1 192.168.10.10
ip dhcp excluded-address 192.168.20.1 192.168.20.10
ip dhcp pool VLAN10
network 192.168.10.0 255.255.255.0
default-router 192.168.10.1
dns-server 8.8.8.8
lease 1
ip dhcp pool VLAN20
network 192.168.20.0 255.255.255.0
default-router 192.168.20.1
dns-server 8.8.8.8
lease 1

Why this answer

Ly uses `lease 1` for a 1-day lease, dotted decimal subnet masks, and proper DHCP pool settings. Option B incorrectly uses CIDR notation `/24` in the network command, which IOS does not accept. Option C uses `lease 24`, which is interpreted as 24 days, not 1 day.

Option D also incorrectly uses `lease 24`, resulting in a 24-day lease instead of the required 1-day lease.

Exam trap

Be careful with the lease command: the default unit is days, not hours. Also, remember that the network command in DHCP pool configuration requires a subnet mask in dotted decimal format, not CIDR prefix length. Excluded addresses are configured globally, not within the pool.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The network command in DHCP pool configuration requires a subnet mask in dotted decimal format, not CIDR notation like /24.

C

The lease command uses days as its unit; `lease 24` sets a 24-day lease, not the required 1 day.

D

The lease command sets duration in days, so `lease 24` gives a 24-day lease instead of a 1-day lease.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates may be familiar with CIDR notation from other contexts (like ACLs or routing) and incorrectly assume it works in DHCP pool configuration.

C

Candidates might think the lease time is in hours because many other network parameters use seconds or minutes, or they may confuse it with the DHCP lease time in Windows which is in hours.

D

Candidates might see this as correct and be confused by the duplication, but they should recognize that only one answer is correct.

160
MCQhard

Which prefix length corresponds to the subnet mask 255.255.255.192?

A./25
B./26
C./27
D./28
AnswerB

The subnet mask 255.255.255.192 has a binary pattern of 11111111.11111111.11111111.11000000, which places two additional network bits in the fourth octet beyond the standard /24. Adding those two bits to the 24 bits of the first three octets yields 26 network bits, so the only correct prefix length is /26. This mask provides 64 total addresses per subnet and 62 usable host addresses.

Why this answer

The mask 255.255.255.192 corresponds to /26. In practical terms, the first three octets contribute 24 network bits, and 192 in binary is 11000000, which contributes 2 more network bits. That totals 26 network bits.

This is a standard conversion skill that matters in subnetting, ACL design, and route interpretation.

Exam trap

Be careful not to confuse similar subnet masks or miscount the number of bits in the binary representation.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The /25 prefix length corresponds to subnet mask 255.255.255.128, not 255.255.255.192. The mask 255.255.255.128 has 128 in the last octet, while 255.255.255.192 has 192, indicating a different number of host bits.

C

The /27 prefix length corresponds to subnet mask 255.255.255.224, not 255.255.255.192. The mask 255.255.255.224 has 224 in the last octet, which provides 30 usable hosts per subnet, whereas 255.255.255.192 provides 62 usable hosts.

D

The /28 prefix length corresponds to subnet mask 255.255.255.240, not 255.255.255.192. The mask 255.255.255.240 has 240 in the last octet, which supports 14 usable hosts, while 255.255.255.192 supports 62 usable hosts.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different question, if the exam asked for the prefix length of a subnet mask of 255.255.255.128, then option A: /25 would be the correct answer, as it accurately reflects that subnet mask.

C

If the question asked for the prefix length for a subnet mask of 255.255.255.224, then option C: /27 would be the correct answer, as it accurately represents that subnet mask.

D

If the exam question asked for the prefix length corresponding to the subnet mask 255.255.255.240, then option D: /28 would be the correct answer, as it accurately represents that subnet mask.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often confuse /25 and /26 because both are common subnet masks used for subnetting a /24 network. The difference of one bit can be overlooked, especially when quickly calculating subnet boundaries.

C

Students may mistakenly think that /27 is the next logical step after /26, but the actual progression is /25, /26, /27, /28. The value 192 in the mask can be misremembered as 224 due to similar numeric patterns.

D

Students might confuse the decimal value 192 with 240 because both are common subnet mask values. Additionally, /28 is a frequently used prefix for small subnets, leading to a hasty association with any mask ending in a non-zero octet.

161
MCQhard

After configuring a trunk port to allow VLAN 40, a technician finds that VLAN 40 is not listed among the VLANs in spanning tree forwarding state in the show interfaces trunk output. What is the most likely cause?

A.The trunk port is using ISL encapsulation, which does not support VLAN 40.
B.The technician omitted the 'add' keyword when adding VLAN 40 to the allowed list, so the trunk no longer permits VLAN 40.
C.VLAN 40 has not been created in the VLAN database on the switch.
D.VTP pruning is enabled, and VLAN 40 is not needed by any downstream neighbor, so it is pruned from this trunk.
AnswerC

A VLAN must be defined in the local VLAN database for the switch to build a spanning-tree instance and forward frames for that VLAN. If it is permitted on the trunk but does not exist, the switch marks it as pruned and it will not appear in the 'VLANs in spanning tree forwarding state' list. This is the exact symptom presented.

Why this answer

VLAN 40 must exist in the local VLAN database before it can participate in spanning tree on a trunk port. Even if the trunk is configured to allow VLAN 40, if the VLAN has not been created on the switch, the spanning tree protocol will not place it in a forwarding state. The 'show interfaces trunk' output will list only VLANs that are both allowed and existent, so the absence of VLAN 40 in the forwarding state indicates it was never created.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction between allowing a VLAN on a trunk and actually creating the VLAN in the VLAN database—candidates mistakenly assume that configuring the trunk alone is sufficient for the VLAN to be operational.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Candidates might associate VLAN support with trunk encapsulation types, but ISL fully supports VLAN 40. This is a distractor.

B

This is a common operational mistake, but the resulting output would show VLAN 40 missing from the 'Vlans allowed' column, not from the forwarding list.

D

Candidates might confuse local pruning (due to non-existent VLAN) with VTP pruning. VTP pruning would also require a multi-switch VTP domain and is less likely in a standalone troubleshooting scenario.

162
MCQmedium

In a router-on-a-stick design, what is configured on the physical router interface connected to the switch?

A.One IP address for every VLAN on the physical interface itself only
B.No subinterfaces; the switch handles all inter-VLAN routing internally
C.Subinterfaces with 802.1Q encapsulation for each routed VLAN
D.A serial encapsulation setting for each VLAN
AnswerC

In a router-on-a-stick, the physical Ethernet interface is configured as an 802.1Q trunk, and subinterfaces are created for each routed VLAN. Each subinterface is assigned an IP address from that VLAN's subnet and uses encapsulation dot1Q with the matching VLAN ID, allowing the router to receive and forward VLAN-tagged frames. This logical separation enables inter-VLAN routing over a single physical link, which is the core of this design.

Why this answer

Router-on-a-stick uses one physical router interface with multiple logical subinterfaces. Each subinterface is associated with a VLAN using 802.1Q encapsulation and gets an IP address for that VLAN. Option A is wrong because IP addresses are configured on subinterfaces, not directly on the physical interface for all VLANs.

Option B is wrong because inter-VLAN routing requires a router; the switch alone does not perform inter-VLAN routing in this design. Option D is wrong because serial encapsulation is used for WAN connections, not for VLAN tagging on Ethernet interfaces.

Exam trap

Avoid confusing switch VLAN configurations with router subinterface configurations. Remember that routers require subinterfaces for VLAN handling.

Why the other options are wrong

A

IP addresses for multiple VLANs are configured on subinterfaces, not directly on the physical interface.

B

Inter-VLAN routing requires a router; the switch does not route between VLANs internally in a router-on-a-stick design.

D

Serial encapsulation is used for WAN serial links, not for VLAN tagging on Ethernet interfaces.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question were about a scenario where a single VLAN is being routed directly on the physical interface without the need for subinterfaces, then this option would be correct. For example, a question might specify a simple network setup with only one VLAN requiring a single IP address.

B

If the question were about a Layer 3 switch that performs inter-VLAN routing internally without needing a router, then this option would be correct. In that context, the switch would manage all VLAN traffic without requiring subinterfaces on the router.

D

If the exam question asked about a scenario involving a legacy network design where each VLAN is routed over a serial link, then specifying a serial encapsulation setting for each VLAN would be correct. This could occur in a question focused on older technologies or specific routing protocols that utilize serial connections.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students may think that configuring multiple IP addresses on a single interface is sufficient for inter-VLAN routing, confusing it with secondary IP addressing on a router interface.

B

This option describes a multilayer switch configuration, which is a common alternative to router-on-a-stick, leading students to confuse the two designs.

D

The term 'encapsulation' is used in both contexts (serial and VLAN), causing confusion. Students may mistakenly think serial encapsulation settings apply to VLAN trunking.

163
MCQmedium

A client on VLAN 20 must obtain an IPv4 lease from a DHCP server located on VLAN 100. Which feature is required on the Layer 3 interface for VLAN 20?

A.NAT overload
B.DHCP relay
C.Port security
D.Private VLAN
AnswerB

A DHCP relay agent, configured on the VLAN 20 SVI or routed interface, listens for DHCPDISCOVER broadcasts sent by the client. It then forwards the request as a unicast to the DHCP server's IP address while adding the interface's IP address in the giaddr field, which tells the server the correct subnet for allocating an IPv4 address. The server's DHCPOFFER is relayed back to the client, enabling a successful lease across VLANs.

Why this answer

A DHCP relay agent forwards client broadcasts as unicast to the remote server, typically using ip helper-address.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is selecting NAT overload or port security as the required feature for DHCP communication across VLANs. NAT overload is used for IP address translation and does not forward DHCP broadcasts, while port security restricts MAC addresses on switch ports but does not relay DHCP messages. Another trap is confusing private VLANs with DHCP relay; private VLANs isolate Layer 2 domains but do not forward DHCP requests between VLANs.

The key is understanding that DHCP relay is the only feature that forwards DHCP broadcasts as unicast messages across Layer 3 boundaries, enabling clients on VLAN 20 to obtain leases from a DHCP server on VLAN 100.

Why the other options are wrong

A

NAT overload translates private IP addresses to a public IP for outbound traffic but does not forward DHCP broadcasts between VLANs. It is unrelated to DHCP relay functionality required for inter-VLAN DHCP communication.

C

Port security restricts which MAC addresses can connect to a switch port but does not forward DHCP broadcasts or relay DHCP messages between VLANs, so it cannot enable DHCP communication across VLANs.

D

Private VLANs isolate devices within a VLAN for security purposes but do not provide DHCP relay capabilities or forward DHCP requests between VLANs, making this option incorrect.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question were about a scenario where a device on a private network needed to access the internet through a single public IP address, NAT overload would be the correct answer, as it allows multiple devices to share one public IP for outbound connections.

C

In a scenario where a question asks about securing access to a switch port for devices on VLAN 20, and the focus is on preventing unauthorized devices from connecting, port security would be the correct answer. For example, if the question specifies that only certain MAC addresses should be allowed on a port in VLAN 20, port security would be essential.

D

If the question were about configuring a network where multiple devices within the same VLAN need to communicate without directly interacting with each other, and the goal is to enhance security by isolating traffic, then private VLANs would be the correct answer. For example, a question could ask about securing a data center environment with multiple servers that should not communicate directly.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might confuse NAT with DHCP relay because both involve IP address translation or forwarding, but NAT is for address translation across networks, not for relaying broadcast-based DHCP requests.

C

Port security is a common security feature on switches, and students might think it is needed to protect the DHCP process, but it has no role in forwarding DHCP requests between VLANs.

D

Private VLANs are used for traffic isolation, and students might mistakenly believe they are needed to separate DHCP traffic, but the actual requirement is to forward DHCP broadcasts across VLANs, which is done by DHCP relay.

164
MCQhard

A static route is configured as 198.51.100.0/24 via 192.0.2.9, but the connected network to the next hop goes down. What happens to the static route in the routing table?

A.It remains permanently because static routes never disappear.
B.It is removed because the recursive next hop is no longer reachable.
C.It changes automatically into a default route.
D.It becomes an OSPF external route.
AnswerB

In Cisco IOS, a static route with a recursive next-hop requires that the next-hop IP address be resolvable through another route before it can be installed in the RIB. When the recursive lookup fails because 192.0.2.9 is no longer reachable, the router removes the static route from the routing table, though the configuration remains. This is why the route disappears from forwarding decisions.

Why this answer

If the outgoing interface or connected path to the next hop becomes unreachable, the router cannot resolve the recursive next hop and the route is removed from the table.

Exam trap

Remember that static routes are removed if the next hop is unreachable, unlike dynamic routes that may have additional states.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Static routes are not permanent; they are removed from the routing table if the next-hop interface goes down or the next-hop IP becomes unreachable, because the route is no longer valid.

C

A static route does not automatically change into a default route; default routes are explicitly configured (e.g., ip route 0.0.0.0 0.0.0.0 next-hop) and are not derived from other static routes.

D

A static route does not become an OSPF external route automatically; OSPF routes are learned through the OSPF protocol, and a static route remains static unless redistributed into OSPF via configuration.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different question, if it asked whether static routes are permanently stored in the routing table regardless of the state of the next hop, option A would be correct. This would imply a scenario where the static route is not affected by the operational status of the next hop.

C

In a different scenario, if a static route was configured with a specific destination and the administrator later decided to change the route to a default route (0.0.0.0/0) for all traffic, this option could be correct if the question asked about the outcome of that specific configuration change.

D

In a different scenario, if the question stated that a static route was configured and the router was running OSPF with a redistribution policy that converts static routes into OSPF external routes, then this option could be correct when the static route is redistributed into OSPF.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students may think static routes are always present once configured, but they forget that the router must be able to reach the next hop for the route to be active.

C

Students might confuse the behavior of floating static routes or think that a route can 'default' when its next hop fails, but that is incorrect.

D

Students may think that when a static route fails, the router might fall back to a dynamic routing protocol like OSPF, but that is not automatic.

165
MCQmedium

A network administrator is troubleshooting a user's wired workstation that cannot access the internet. The user reports that the workstation was working earlier today. The administrator runs 'ipconfig /all' on the workstation and sees an IP address of 169.254.10.55. What is the most likely cause of this issue?

A.The workstation has a duplicate IP address conflict with another device.
B.The workstation is unable to communicate with a DHCP server due to a faulty network cable.
C.The workstation's DNS server settings are misconfigured.
D.The workstation is connected to the wrong VLAN, causing it to receive an incorrect IP address.
AnswerB

A faulty network cable prevents the workstation from establishing physical layer connectivity, which means it cannot send or receive any frames, including DHCP discover messages. Without receiving a DHCP offer, the workstation's DHCP client times out and automatically assigns itself an APIPA address from the 169.254.0.0/16 range. This is the classic symptom of a DHCP server being unreachable due to a Layer 1 issue: the client has no IP configuration and falls back to link-local addressing. The workstation will also show a network cable unplugged or limited connectivity notification, confirming the physical fault rather than a logical misconfiguration.

Why this answer

The IP address 169.254.10.55 falls within the Automatic Private IP Addressing (APIPA) range (169.254.0.0/16, RFC 3927). This address is assigned by the operating system when a DHCP client fails to receive a response from a DHCP server. A faulty network cable would prevent the workstation from communicating with the DHCP server, causing the client to self-assign an APIPA address after the DHCP discovery process times out.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the concept that APIPA addresses are only generated when the DHCP client cannot communicate with any DHCP server, not when there is a configuration mismatch or server-side issue that still allows Layer 2 connectivity.

Why the other options are wrong

A

A duplicate IP address conflict would generate an error message and the workstation would still attempt to use the conflicting IP, not fall back to APIPA. The workstation would retain its DHCP-assigned address and display a conflict notification.

C

DNS misconfiguration would affect name resolution, but the workstation would still obtain a valid IP address from DHCP, not an APIPA address. APIPA is only triggered when DHCP discovery fails entirely.

D

Being on the wrong VLAN would likely result in an IP from a different subnet, not an APIPA address, unless the DHCP server for that VLAN is unreachable. APIPA occurs only when no DHCP server is reachable at all.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students may confuse the symptoms of a duplicate IP conflict with APIPA, as both can cause connectivity issues. However, APIPA addresses are self-assigned only when DHCP fails, not due to conflicts.

C

Students often associate DNS with internet access problems, but APIPA addresses indicate a lack of DHCP communication, not DNS issues. The 169.254.x.x range is a clear indicator of DHCP failure.

D

VLAN misconfiguration can cause connectivity issues, but it typically results in a valid IP from the wrong subnet rather than a link-local address. Students may overlook that APIPA is specific to DHCP failure.

166
Drag & Dropmedium

Drag and drop the following OSPFv2 neighbor state transitions and DR/BDR election steps into the correct order for a multi-access network with default priority values.

Drag steps to the numbered slots on the right, or tap a step then tap a slot.

Steps
Order
1Step 1
2Step 2
3Step 3
4Step 4

Why this order

The correct OSPF neighbor state progression on a multi-access network is: Down, Init, 2-Way (with DR/BDR election), ExStart (master/slave negotiation), Exchange (DBD exchange), Loading (link-state request and update), and Full. Each option missing the Loading state or placing it incorrectly fails to represent the complete adjacency process.

Exam trap

Many learners forget the Loading state, thinking adjacency jumps directly from Exchange to Full; however, after exchanging database descriptors (DBDs), routers must request and load missing LSAs via Link State Request/Update packets, which occurs in the Loading state.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think election occurs after all neighbors are discovered and before full adjacency, but they confuse the timing with the actual state progression.

C

Candidates may confuse the order of states, thinking that ExStart (where master/slave is decided) comes before the bidirectional communication confirmed in 2-Way.

D

Candidates might think that exchanging information (Exchange) comes before starting the exchange (ExStart), but the terminology is misleading: ExStart is the setup phase.

167
Drag & Dropmedium

Drag and drop the following steps into the correct order to capture and analyze traffic on IOS-XE using the embedded packet capture feature, then export to Wireshark to isolate a Layer 2 or Layer 3 fault.

Drag steps to the numbered slots on the right, or tap a step then tap a slot.

Steps
Order
1Step 1
2Step 2
3Step 3
4Step 4

Why this order

First enter privileged mode, then define the capture buffer, specify the interface and direction, start the capture, stop it after collecting data, export to a .pcap file, then transfer and analyze in Wireshark.

Exam trap

Be careful with the order of operations: the buffer must be defined before the capture point, and the capture must be stopped before exporting. Also, remember that these commands are executed in privileged EXEC mode, not global configuration mode.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think that because capture involves configuration-like parameters, it should be done in global configuration mode, similar to other features.

C

Candidates might think the order of defining the buffer and specifying the interface is interchangeable, but the buffer must be created first.

D

Candidates might think exporting can be done while capturing, similar to how some tools allow live export, but IOS-XE requires stopping first.

168
MCQmedium

When two routes to the same destination are learned by OSPF from different paths, what criterion does OSPF use to select the best path?

A.Lowest administrative distance
B.Lowest OSPF cost
C.Highest bandwidth of the first hop only
D.Lowest next-hop IP address
AnswerB

OSPF defines cost as a metric derived from the cumulative bandwidth of all links in the path; each interface has a cost inversely proportional to its bandwidth, and the total cost is the sum of these interface costs. The route with the lowest total OSPF cost is always preferred because it represents the shortest and most efficient path based on the link speeds. This is the fundamental metric OSPF uses to build its SPF routing table.

Why this answer

Within OSPF, the router compares the total path cost to the destination. Lower cost is preferred. Administrative distance is used when comparing routes from different routing sources, not between two OSPF paths.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is selecting administrative distance as the criterion for OSPF route selection. While administrative distance determines route preference between different routing protocols, OSPF uses cost internally to choose the best path. Another trap is assuming OSPF chooses routes based on the highest bandwidth of the first hop only, ignoring the cumulative cost of the entire path.

Candidates may also mistakenly think OSPF uses the lowest next-hop IP address, which is incorrect. These misunderstandings can lead to incorrect answers on OSPF routing questions.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Lowest administrative distance is incorrect because administrative distance is used to compare routes from different routing protocols, not to select between multiple OSPF-learned routes. Within OSPF, all routes have the same administrative distance, so this criterion does not apply.

C

Highest bandwidth of the first hop only is incorrect because OSPF considers the cumulative cost of the entire path, not just the bandwidth of the first hop. Focusing only on the first hop bandwidth ignores the cost of subsequent links.

D

Lowest next-hop IP address is incorrect because OSPF does not use the next-hop IP address as a criterion for route selection. The protocol relies exclusively on the cost metric to determine the best path.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question asked about the selection criteria for routes learned from multiple routing protocols, such as OSPF and EIGRP, then the lowest administrative distance would be the correct answer. In this scenario, OSPF would be compared against another protocol, and the administrative distance would determine which route to prefer.

C

In a question asking which routing protocol selects paths based solely on the highest bandwidth of the first hop, this option would be correct. For instance, if the question specified a protocol that prioritizes the first hop's bandwidth over cumulative path metrics, such as EIGRP, then this answer would apply.

D

In a question asking which routing protocol selects paths based on the lowest next-hop IP address, this option would be correct. For example, if the question specifically pertains to static routing or a different protocol that uses next-hop addresses for path selection, then this option would apply.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often confuse the role of administrative distance, thinking it applies to route selection within the same protocol, but it is actually used for comparing routes from different sources.

C

Some might think that the first hop's bandwidth is the primary factor, similar to how some routing protocols consider hop count. However, OSPF considers the entire path cost.

D

In some routing protocols or configurations, IP addresses can be used as tiebreakers (e.g., in BGP or when equal-cost paths exist), but OSPF relies solely on cost unless equal-cost load balancing is configured.

169
MCQhard

A switchport connected to a user workstation is placed in VLAN 30. The administrator also wants to prevent that port from learning more than one MAC address. Which feature should be configured?

A.Port security
B.EtherChannel
C.OSPF passive-interface
D.Native VLAN
AnswerA

Port security is the correct answer because it directly restricts the number of unique MAC addresses that can be learned on a switchport, typically an access port connected to an end-user workstation. By configuring a maximum MAC address count (e.g., `switchport port-security maximum 1`) and violation modes like shutdown or restrict, it mitigates MAC flooding attacks and prevents unauthorized devices from connecting to that specific interface. This feature operates entirely at layer 2 and is designed precisely for securing user-facing switchports.

Why this answer

The correct feature is port security. In practical terms, port security lets the administrator control how many MAC addresses can be learned on a switchport and what happens if that limit is exceeded. That makes it a very natural fit for a user-facing access port where one endpoint is expected and unmanaged extra devices are not.

This is a common access-layer hardening technique. VLAN assignment controls where the traffic belongs, but it does not limit who or what can appear on the port. Port security adds that second layer of control.

Exam trap

Don't confuse VLAN assignment or ACLs with port security; they serve different functions.

Why the other options are wrong

B

EtherChannel is used to aggregate multiple physical links into a single logical link for increased bandwidth and redundancy, not to limit MAC address learning on a single port. It does not provide any mechanism to restrict the number of MAC addresses learned on a switchport.

C

OSPF passive-interface is a routing protocol feature used to prevent OSPF from sending hello messages on an interface, typically used on interfaces that do not have OSPF neighbors. It has no effect on MAC address learning or switchport security.

D

Native VLAN is a concept used on trunk ports to specify the VLAN that carries untagged traffic. It does not control MAC address learning or limit the number of MAC addresses on a switchport.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

If the question asked about configuring a link aggregation to increase bandwidth between switches while ensuring redundancy, then EtherChannel would be the correct answer, as it directly addresses the need for combining multiple links.

C

If the question asked about configuring OSPF on a router and required the administrator to stop OSPF updates on a specific interface while still allowing other interfaces to participate in OSPF, then selecting OSPF passive-interface would be correct.

D

In a scenario where a question asks about configuring VLANs for trunk links and managing untagged traffic, selecting 'Native VLAN' could be correct if the question specifically addresses the need to define which VLAN untagged frames should be assigned to on a trunk port.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students might confuse EtherChannel with port security because both involve controlling traffic on switchports, but EtherChannel focuses on link aggregation rather than MAC address control.

C

The term 'passive' might be misinterpreted as a security feature that limits activity on the port, leading students to incorrectly associate it with restricting MAC addresses.

D

Students might think that native VLAN, being a VLAN-related feature, could affect MAC address learning, but it is unrelated to port security mechanisms.

170
MCQhard

PCs in VLAN 40 are not receiving addresses from the centralized DHCP server at 172.16.1.10. What should be configured on the VLAN 40 default gateway interface?

A.ip dhcp excluded-address 10.40.40.1 10.40.40.10
B.ip helper-address 172.16.1.10
C.service dhcp
D.ip default-gateway 172.16.1.10
AnswerB

The ip helper-address command must be applied to the VLAN 40 SVI (interface vlan 40). DHCP clients broadcast DHCPDISCOVER packets, and routers do not forward broadcasts by default; this command converts those broadcasts into unicasts and relays them to the DHCP server at 172.16.1.10. The server then replies with an address appropriate for VLAN 40's subnet, which is why this is the correct fix.

Why this answer

When DHCP clients and the DHCP server are on different subnets, the router interface serving the client subnet must relay broadcasts to the server with the ip helper-address command.

Exam trap

Ensure you understand the difference between DHCP relay and DHCP security features like snooping, as well as local DHCP server configuration.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The 'ip dhcp excluded-address' command is used on a DHCP server to prevent certain addresses from being assigned, not on a router interface to forward DHCP requests. This command would not help clients in VLAN 40 reach the centralized DHCP server.

C

The 'service dhcp' command globally enables the DHCP server or relay agent on a Cisco device, but it does not specify where to forward requests. Without the 'ip helper-address' command, DHCP broadcasts will not be forwarded to the server.

D

The 'ip default-gateway' command is used on a switch to set a default gateway for management purposes, not to forward DHCP broadcasts. It does not provide DHCP relay functionality.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different scenario where the question involves configuring DHCP settings for a specific range of IP addresses on a DHCP server, such as preventing certain addresses from being assigned to clients, this option would be correct. For example, if the question asked how to prevent the DHCP server from assigning addresses within a specific range to avoid conflicts, this would apply.

C

If the question were about configuring a router to act as a DHCP server for VLAN 40, then 'service dhcp' would be the correct answer. This would imply that the router is intended to provide IP addresses directly to clients in that VLAN.

D

In a different scenario where a question asks for the configuration of a standalone device, such as a router or switch that is not acting as a DHCP relay, specifying 'ip default-gateway 172.16.1.10' would be correct to ensure that the device can route packets to the DHCP server for itself.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students may think that excluding addresses on the default gateway interface would reserve those addresses for the gateway itself, but this command is only valid on a device acting as a DHCP server, not on a router interface.

C

Students may confuse 'service dhcp' with enabling DHCP relay functionality, but it only enables the DHCP process; the actual forwarding requires the interface-level 'ip helper-address' command.

D

The term 'default-gateway' may mislead students into thinking it helps clients reach the DHCP server, but it is only for the device's own management traffic, not for relaying DHCP requests.

171
MCQmedium

In a controller-based WLAN, what is the main job of the access point?

A.To provide the radio connection between wireless clients and the network
B.To replace the wireless LAN controller entirely
C.To act as the default gateway for every wired VLAN
D.To perform OSPF route summarization for wireless users
AnswerA

The access point (AP) is responsible for operating the physical radio interface, including transmitting and receiving 802.11 wireless frames to and from client devices. It converts those wireless frames into 802.3 Ethernet frames for the wired network, but it does so under the control of a wireless LAN controller. Its core job is purely to provide reliable, over-the-air connectivity to associated clients, while the controller handles management and higher-level decisions.

Why this answer

The main job of the access point is to provide the actual radio connection between wireless clients and the network. In practical terms, the controller may centralize policy and management, but the AP is still the device that transmits and receives the wireless frames in the local area.

This distinction matters because CCNA wireless questions often separate the controller’s management role from the AP’s RF and client-connectivity role.

Exam trap

Remember that access points handle RF communication, while controllers manage policies and configurations. Don't confuse these roles.

Why the other options are wrong

B

In a controller-based WLAN, the access point is a lightweight device that relies on the wireless LAN controller (WLC) for management, control, and data forwarding decisions. The AP cannot replace the controller because it lacks the necessary intelligence and processing power to perform controller functions such as RF management, client authentication, and mobility services.

C

The access point does not act as a default gateway for wired VLANs. Default gateway functionality is provided by routers or Layer 3 switches that route traffic between different subnets. The AP's role is limited to wireless access and forwarding client traffic to the wired network, typically through the controller or directly to the switch.

D

OSPF route summarization is a routing protocol function performed by routers or Layer 3 switches, not by access points. APs are not involved in routing protocol operations; they focus on wireless connectivity and may forward traffic to the controller or wired network without participating in dynamic routing.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a scenario where the question asks about the role of access points in a standalone WLAN setup, where no controller is present, this option would be correct as it implies that access points manage all functions independently.

C

If the question asked about a standalone access point in a traditional WLAN setup, where it is configured to handle multiple VLANs and serve as the default gateway for clients on those VLANs, then this option would be correct. In such a scenario, the access point would need to manage IP addressing and routing for the connected clients.

D

In a different context, if the question asked about the functions of a wireless router that integrates routing protocols like OSPF for managing wireless traffic, this option could be correct, as such devices can perform route summarization.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students might confuse controller-based APs with autonomous APs, which can operate independently without a controller. However, in a controller-based architecture, APs are designed to work in conjunction with a controller, not replace it.

C

Some students may think that because an AP connects wireless clients to the network, it must also provide routing or gateway services. However, in a typical WLAN deployment, the AP operates at Layer 2 and does not perform Layer 3 routing functions.

D

Students might associate OSPF with network devices in general and assume that any network device could perform route summarization. However, APs are not routers and do not run routing protocols like OSPF in a typical WLAN deployment.

172
PBQhard

You are connected to R1 via console. Configure OSPFv3 for IPv6 on both R1 and R2 so that the loopback0 interface on R2 (IPv6 address 2001:db8:1:2::1/64) is reachable from R1. The link between R1 and R2 uses the subnet 2001:db8:1:1::/64 with R1's G0/0 having IPv6 address 2001:db8:1:1::1/64 and R2's G0/0 having 2001:db8:1:1::2/64. OSPFv3 process ID must be 100 and all interfaces must be in area 0. After configuration, verify OSPFv3 neighbors and the IPv6 route to the loopback0 network.

Hints

  • OSPFv3 uses the 'ipv6 ospf <process-id> area <area-id>' command under each interface.
  • The loopback0 interface on R2 must also be enabled for OSPFv3 to advertise its prefix.
  • A router-id is required for OSPFv3; if not configured explicitly, the router may not form adjacency.
A.On R1: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 1.1.1.1, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0. On R2: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 2.2.2.2, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0, interface loopback0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0.
B.On R1: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 1.1.1.1, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0. On R2: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 2.2.2.2, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0. No configuration on loopback0.
C.On R1: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 1.1.1.1, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0. On R2: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 2.2.2.2, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0, interface loopback0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0, and also configure 'network 2001:db8:1:2::/64 area 0' under the OSPFv3 process.
D.On R1: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 1.1.1.1, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0. On R2: ipv6 router ospf 100, router-id 2.2.2.2, interface g0/0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0, interface loopback0: ipv6 ospf 100 area 0, and also configure 'passive-interface GigabitEthernet0/0' under the OSPFv3 process.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
ipv6 router ospf 100
router-id 1.1.1.1
interface GigabitEthernet0/0
ipv6 ospf 100 area 0

! R2
ipv6 router ospf 100
router-id 2.2.2.2
interface GigabitEthernet0/0
ipv6 ospf 100 area 0
interface Loopback0
ipv6 ospf 100 area 0

Why this answer

To achieve reachability to R2's loopback, OSPFv3 must be enabled on R1's and R2's G0/0 interfaces in area 0, and on R2's loopback0 so its prefix is advertised. Option A shows the minimal correct configuration. Option B omits enabling OSPF on loopback0, so the route to 2001:db8:1:2::/64 is not advertised.

Option C incorrectly uses the 'network' command, which is not supported in OSPFv3; OSPFv3 relies on interface-level 'ipv6 ospf ... area' commands. Option D adds 'passive-interface GigabitEthernet0/0', which prevents OSPF from forming a neighbor adjacency on the link, breaking the required connectivity.

Exam trap

Do not confuse OSPFv2 and OSPFv3 configuration. OSPFv3 uses only interface-level commands, and while setting a loopback as passive is safe, applying 'passive-interface' on a transit link will block neighbor adjacency.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Loopback0 is not enabled for OSPF, so its prefix is not advertised into OSPF.

C

The 'network' command is invalid in OSPFv3 for IPv6; only interface-level 'ipv6 ospf ... area' commands are used.

D

Applying 'passive-interface GigabitEthernet0/0' prevents OSPF from forming a neighbor adjacency on the link, breaking the verification of neighbor state.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think loopback interfaces are automatically advertised, but OSPFv3 requires explicit interface-level configuration.

C

Candidates familiar with OSPFv2 might mistakenly apply the 'network' command to OSPFv3, not realizing the difference.

D

Candidates might think that loopback interfaces should be made passive to prevent OSPF hello packets, but this is unnecessary and not part of the required configuration.

173
PBQmedium

You are connected to the console of R1. The network administrator reports that users cannot communicate with the server at 192.168.2.10. R1 is connected to R2 via a serial link (S0/0/0) with IP 10.0.0.1/30 on R1 and 10.0.0.2/30 on R2. The network uses OSPF for routing. You suspect an interface issue on the serial link.

Network Topology
S0/0/010.0.0.1/30S0/0/010.0.0.2/30SerialS0/0/010.0.0.2/30192.168.2.10G0/0 192.168.2.1/24R2R1Server

Hints

  • Check the interface status and line protocol.
  • Serial links require a clock rate on the DCE end.
  • Ensure the encapsulation matches on both ends.
A.Use the show interfaces serial0/0/0 command to verify the interface status and check for encapsulation mismatch.
B.Use the show ip route command to verify that the route to 192.168.2.0/24 is present in the routing table.
C.Use the ping 10.0.0.2 command to test Layer 3 connectivity to the neighbor router.
D.Use the show running-config interface serial0/0/0 command to check the configuration of the serial interface.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
interface Serial0/0/0
clock rate 64000
no shutdown
encapsulation ppp

Why this answer

The serial interface may be administratively down or have incorrect encapsulation. Setting the clock rate on the DCE side and ensuring PPP encapsulation matches the neighbor resolves the issue.

Exam trap

Do not confuse troubleshooting steps: when a specific interface issue is suspected, use interface-level commands like show interfaces, not routing or ping commands. The show interfaces command is the go-to for verifying interface status and encapsulation.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The show ip route command does not provide interface-level details such as encapsulation or clock rate; it only shows routing information.

C

Ping does not provide detailed interface status or configuration information; it only indicates whether the neighbor is reachable, not why it is not.

D

The running-config shows the intended configuration but not the current operational state; for example, it won't show if the interface is administratively down unless you check the shutdown command.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates often default to checking the routing table when there is a connectivity issue, but the question explicitly points to a serial interface problem.

C

Ping is a common first step in troubleshooting, but the question specifically asks to verify an interface issue, which requires interface-level commands.

D

Candidates may think checking the configuration is sufficient, but the question asks to 'verify' the issue, which implies checking the operational status.

174
Multi-Selectmedium

Which TWO statements accurately describe the encapsulation process in the TCP/IP model as data moves from the application layer to the network access layer?

Select 2 answers
A.At the application layer, the PDU is called a segment and includes a transport layer header.
B.At the transport layer, the PDU is called a segment (for TCP) and includes source and destination port numbers.
C.At the network layer, the PDU is called a frame and includes source and destination MAC addresses.
D.At the network layer, the PDU is called a packet and includes source and destination IP addresses.
E.At the data link layer, the PDU is called a packet and includes source and destination IP addresses.
AnswersB, D

The transport layer PDU for TCP is a segment, and its header carries source and destination port numbers to identify the sending and receiving applications, along with sequence and acknowledgment numbers for reliability. This segmentation prepares data for network-layer encapsulation. For UDP, the equivalent PDU is called a datagram, so the term segment specifically applies to TCP.

Why this answer

At the transport layer, TCP creates segments that include source and destination port numbers (B correct). At the network layer, the PDU is a packet containing source and destination IP addresses (D correct). Option A is wrong because the application layer generates data, not segments, and transport headers are added later.

Option C mislabels the network layer PDU; it is a packet, not a frame, and MAC addresses belong to frames. Option E is wrong because the data link layer PDU is a frame, not a packet, and it uses MAC addresses, not IP addresses.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the specific PDU naming conventions (segment, packet, frame) and the layer at which each header is added, causing candidates to confuse the network layer packet with the data link layer frame or to misidentify the transport layer PDU.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The application layer PDU is just data; no transport header is added at this stage.

C

At the network layer, the PDU is a packet with IP addresses; MAC addresses are added at the data link layer.

E

The data link layer PDU is a frame, not a packet, and it contains source and destination MAC addresses.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often confuse the terms 'segment' and 'data' because they know that segmentation occurs at the transport layer, but they may incorrectly associate the term with the application layer.

C

Students may confuse the terms 'packet' and 'frame' because both are used in networking, and they might think that frames contain IP addresses since they are used in local delivery.

E

Students often mix up the terms 'packet' and 'frame' because both are encapsulated units, and they may incorrectly associate IP addresses with the data link layer due to their role in end-to-end communication.

175
PBQmedium

You are connected to R1 via console. R1 and R2 are configured with EIGRP AS 100. R1's loopback0 (1.1.1.1/32) should be advertised into EIGRP. However, after configuration, R2 does not have a route to 1.1.1.1/32. You need to verify the EIGRP configuration on R1 and R2 to determine why the route is missing. Use show commands to identify the issue.

Network Topology
G0/010.0.0.1/30G0/010.0.0.2/30R1R2

Hints

  • Check if the loopback interface is configured as passive or if there is a network statement issue.
  • The 'passive-interface default' command makes all interfaces passive unless explicitly configured otherwise.
  • Ensure that the network statement for the loopback includes the correct wildcard mask.
A.Use 'show ip eigrp interfaces' on R1 to verify that EIGRP is enabled on the interface facing R2 and that it is not passive.
B.Use 'show ip eigrp topology' on R1 to confirm that the 1.1.1.1/32 route is in the EIGRP topology table.
C.Use 'show ip route eigrp' on R1 to verify that the 1.1.1.1/32 route is in the routing table.
D.Use 'show ip protocols' on R2 to verify that EIGRP AS 100 is configured and that the network statement includes the subnet of the interface facing R1.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
show ip eigrp neighbors
show ip eigrp topology
show ip route eigrp
show running-config | section router eigrp

! R2
show ip route eigrp

Why this answer

The root cause is that R1's interface facing R2 is passive, preventing EIGRP neighbor adjacency. 'show ip eigrp interfaces' verifies the passive state, identifying why no routes are exchanged. Option B is incorrect because the local topology table may contain the route, but without an active neighbor, it will not be advertised; the topology check alone is insufficient. Option C is incorrect because the routing table may also show the locally connected route, but that does not explain why R2 lacks it.

Option D is incorrect because checking R2's EIGRP configuration does not reveal R1's passive interface, which is the actual problem.

Exam trap

Be careful: 'passive-interface default' makes all interfaces passive, including the one needed for neighbor adjacency. You must use 'no passive-interface' on the specific interface to allow EIGRP to form a neighbor. Also, remember that passive interfaces can still advertise routes, but they do not form adjacencies.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The route being in R1's topology does not guarantee it is advertised to R2; the problem is more likely with the neighbor adjacency or outbound filters.

C

The loopback is a directly connected interface, so it will not appear in the EIGRP routing table; it is injected into EIGRP via the network statement. This command is irrelevant for checking the advertisement.

D

The problem is likely on R1, not R2. R2's configuration may be fine, but if R1 is not sending the route, R2 will never learn it. This command focuses on R2, which is not the source of the issue.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates often check the topology table first, assuming the route must be present locally, but they overlook the neighbor relationship.

C

Candidates may think checking the routing table on R1 will reveal if the route is being advertised, but the route is locally connected and not learned via EIGRP.

D

Candidates often check both routers, but the question states R2 does not have the route, so they might suspect R2's configuration first. However, the route originates from R1, so the issue is more likely on R1.

176
PBQhard

You are connected to R1 via console. R1's GigabitEthernet0/1 interface connects to a remote site switch over a 2 km fiber link. The current configuration shows speed and duplex set to 1000 Mbps and full, but the interface is down/down due to an SFP mismatch. Review the exhibit, identify the problem, and correct it so that the interface comes up and communicates at the correct speed and duplex. Additionally, ensure the interface is configured to auto-negotiate properly for future cable replacements.

Network Topology
Gi0/110.0.0.1/302 km fiberR1Remote Switch

Hints

  • Hard-coded speed and duplex can prevent auto-negotiation and cause link failure with fiber SFPs.
  • The interface is administratively down; check for the 'shutdown' command in the running config.
  • For distances over 550 m, a 1000BASE-LX SFP is needed instead of 1000BASE-SX.
A.Replace the SFP with a 1000BASE-LX module, remove the manual speed and duplex settings, and issue the no shutdown command.
B.Replace the SFP with a 1000BASE-SX module, keep the manual speed 1000 and duplex full, and issue the no shutdown command.
C.Keep the existing SFP, change the speed to 100 and duplex to half, and issue the no shutdown command.
D.Replace the SFP with a 1000BASE-LX module, keep the manual speed 1000 and duplex full, and issue the no shutdown command.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
interface GigabitEthernet0/1
no speed
no duplex
no shutdown

Why this answer

The interface was administratively shut down (shutdown command) and had hard-coded speed 1000 and duplex full, which is incompatible with the 2 km fiber link requiring a long-haul SFP (e.g., 1000BASE-LX). The correct fix is to remove the manual speed/duplex settings, enable auto-negotiation (which is default but overridden), and then no shutdown. For a 2 km link, a 1000BASE-LX SFP is required; the existing SFP (likely 1000BASE-SX, max 550 m) caused the link to be down.

After replacing with the correct SFP, the interface should come up. Commands: interface Gi0/1, no speed, no duplex, no shutdown.

Exam trap

Trap: Candidates may focus only on the SFP replacement and forget to remove manual speed/duplex settings, or they may choose an SFP with insufficient distance. Remember that Gigabit Ethernet fiber interfaces should use auto-negotiation, and manual settings are only for troubleshooting or specific legacy scenarios.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The specific factual error is that 1000BASE-SX cannot support 2 km distances; it is limited to 550 m.

C

The specific factual error is that Gigabit Ethernet interfaces cannot be set to 100 Mbps; they only support 1000 Mbps or auto-negotiation.

D

The specific factual error is that manual speed/duplex settings should be removed to allow auto-negotiation; they are not recommended for fiber interfaces.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think any Gigabit SFP works for any distance, or that manual settings are always acceptable.

C

Candidates might confuse speed settings from FastEthernet or think reducing speed can compensate for distance issues.

D

Candidates might think manual settings are fine since they match the expected speed, but they overlook the auto-negotiation requirement.

177
MCQhard

A multilayer switch has SVIs for VLAN 10 and VLAN 20. Hosts in both VLANs can reach their local SVI, but they cannot reach each other. Which additional configuration is most likely required?

A.Enable `ip routing` on the multilayer switch.
B.Convert all access ports into trunks.
C.Make both VLANs use the same IP subnet.
D.Disable spanning tree on both VLANs.
AnswerA

Without `ip routing`, the switch enforces its default behavior as a Layer 2 device: the SVIs exist with IP addresses but no dynamic or static route is installed to move packets between VLANs. Entering `ip routing` enables the Layer 3 forwarding engine (CEF) and makes the SVIs act as routed gateway interfaces. This is the exact missing command for inter-VLAN forwarding on a multilayer switch.

Why this answer

The most likely missing configuration is `ip routing`. In practical terms, the switch already has Layer 3 gateway interfaces for the VLANs, which is why hosts can reach their local SVI. But inter-VLAN communication still requires the switch to actually route between those VLAN interfaces. Without IP routing enabled, the SVIs can exist and respond locally without forwarding traffic between them.

This is a classic multilayer-switch question because many learners assume that creating SVIs automatically enables inter-VLAN routing. It does not. The device must also be told to behave as a Layer 3 forwarding device across those VLAN interfaces.

Exam trap

Don't assume SVIs automatically enable inter-VLAN routing; IP routing must be explicitly enabled.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Converting all access ports to trunks is unnecessary and incorrect because host-facing ports should remain access ports assigned to a single VLAN. Trunks are used to carry multiple VLANs between switches, not to connect end hosts. This change would not enable inter-VLAN routing.

C

Making both VLANs use the same IP subnet would break the fundamental purpose of VLANs, which is to separate broadcast domains and logically segment the network. Hosts in different VLANs must be in different subnets for proper routing; otherwise, they would expect to communicate directly at Layer 2, which is not possible across VLANs.

D

Disabling Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) on both VLANs would not enable inter-VLAN routing; it would only risk creating Layer 2 loops and broadcast storms. STP is a loop-prevention mechanism and has no role in Layer 3 routing between VLANs.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a scenario where the question specifies that hosts in VLAN 10 and VLAN 20 are connected to access ports and need to communicate with devices in another VLAN that is only reachable via trunk links, converting access ports to trunks would be necessary to allow VLAN tagging and proper routing.

C

In a different scenario where the question states that both VLANs need to communicate but are assigned to the same subnet due to a misconfiguration, then making both VLANs use the same IP subnet would be necessary to allow inter-VLAN communication.

D

In a different scenario where a question states that VLANs are experiencing excessive broadcast traffic and network loops, and the requirement is to optimize the network by removing spanning tree protocol, then disabling spanning tree could be the correct answer.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

A student might think that trunks are needed to carry traffic between VLANs, but inter-VLAN routing is a Layer 3 function, not a Layer 2 trunking issue. The confusion arises from mixing the concepts of VLAN trunking and routing.

C

A student might think that using the same subnet would allow hosts to communicate directly, but this ignores that VLANs are separate broadcast domains. Even with the same subnet, hosts in different VLANs cannot communicate without a router, and the switch would not forward frames between VLANs at Layer 2.

D

A student might incorrectly associate STP with blocking traffic and think that disabling it would allow traffic to flow freely. However, STP does not block inter-VLAN traffic; it only prevents loops in redundant topologies. The real issue is the lack of IP routing.

178
MCQmedium

A router output shows this neighbor state: Neighbor ID 10.1.1.1 State FULL/DR Address 192.168.12.1 What does the FULL/DR state indicate?

A.The local router is the DR and adjacency formation has failed
B.The neighbor relationship is complete and the neighbor is the DR on that segment
C.The routers are exchanging only link-state requests
D.The neighbor has been learned through BGP redistribution
AnswerB

In OSPF, the FULL neighbor state indicates that the two routers have completed database synchronization, exchanging Database Descriptors, Link-State Requests, Link-State Updates, and Link-State Acknowledgments. In a broadcast or NBMA segment, the DR designation is appended after the state, so this output means neighbor Router ID 10.1.1.1 is fully adjacent and is the Designated Router for that segment.

Why this answer

FULL means the OSPF adjacency is fully formed. The /DR suffix indicates that the listed neighbor is the Designated Router for that multiaccess segment.

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is assuming that the FULL state with /DR means the local router is the Designated Router or that adjacency has failed. In reality, FULL indicates a successful adjacency, and the /DR suffix refers to the neighbor’s role. Candidates often confuse the neighbor ID with the local router’s role, leading to incorrect answers.

Another trap is thinking that exchanging only link-state requests corresponds to FULL state, but that actually occurs earlier in the adjacency process. Understanding the exact meaning of FULL and the DR role is essential to avoid these pitfalls.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Option A incorrectly states that adjacency formation has failed. FULL state actually indicates a successful adjacency, and the /DR suffix refers to the neighbor’s role, not failure.

C

Option C is incorrect because exchanging only link-state requests happens in earlier OSPF states, not in FULL adjacency, which means all exchanges are complete.

D

Option D is invalid because the output shows native OSPF neighbor information, not BGP redistribution, so the neighbor is not learned through BGP.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question specified a scenario where the local router was indeed the DR but had issues with forming adjacencies due to misconfigurations or network issues, then stating that the adjacency formation has failed would be correct.

C

In a different question, if the context specified that the routers were in a transitional state where they were still negotiating their adjacency and had not yet completed the exchange of link-state information, then this option could be correct.

D

In a scenario where the question asks about the source of routing information and states that a neighbor has been learned via BGP, this option would be correct if the context specified that the router was learning routes from a BGP neighbor and not through OSPF adjacency.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

A student might confuse the suffix '/DR' as indicating the local router's role, especially if they are not careful about the output format. Additionally, the term 'DR' might be misinterpreted as a failure state by those unfamiliar with OSPF.

C

Students often confuse the various OSPF states (DOWN, INIT, 2WAY, EXSTART, EXCHANGE, LOADING, FULL). The mention of 'link-state requests' might lead them to think of the LOADING state, but FULL is the final, stable state.

D

A student might see the neighbor ID (10.1.1.1) and assume it is a BGP learned route, especially if they are more familiar with BGP. However, the state information clearly indicates OSPF adjacency.

179
MCQhard

An EtherChannel between SW1 and SW2 is not forming. The technician runs the show etherchannel summary command on both switches and sees that all configured interfaces are in the 'I' (stand-alone) state. Both switches have their interfaces configured with channel-group 1 mode active. What should the technician check next?

A.Verify that both switches are using the same EtherChannel protocol (LACP or PAgP).
B.Check that the speed and duplex settings match on all member interfaces.
C.Check for a VLAN mismatch on the member interfaces (e.g., mismatched native VLAN or allowed VLAN list).
D.Determine whether Spanning Tree Protocol is blocking one of the ports.
AnswerC

LACP requires that all member ports have identical VLAN configurations (switchport mode, allowed VLANs, native VLAN). A mismatch in any of these parameters keeps the ports in stand-alone state. Since the protocol is already confirmed as LACP, verifying VLAN consistency is the most appropriate next step.

Why this answer

When both switches are configured with channel-group 1 mode active, they are using LACP (active/active). The 'I' (stand-alone) state indicates the ports are not forming an EtherChannel despite LACP being enabled. A VLAN mismatch—such as differing native VLANs or allowed VLAN lists—can prevent LACP from successfully negotiating the bundle, as the control plane sees a Layer 2 inconsistency and keeps the ports in stand-alone mode.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the misconception that the 'I' (stand-alone) state always indicates a physical or protocol mismatch, when in fact it frequently points to Layer 2 configuration inconsistencies like VLAN mismatches that prevent LACP from completing negotiation.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Assuming that a protocol mismatch might exist without checking the existing configuration first.

B

Prioritizing a Layer 1 check over a Layer 2 parameter that must be identical for EtherChannel to bundle.

D

Confusing STP port states with EtherChannel negotiation states.

180
PBQhard

You are connected to R1. Configure static routes so that R1 can reach the IPv4 network 203.0.113.0/24 and the IPv6 network 2001:db8:acad:1::/64 via R2 (G0/0 10.0.0.2/30). Additionally, configure a floating static default route (IPv4) with an administrative distance of 200 via R2, and a fully specified IPv6 default route via R2. Then, verify that the IPv4 static route to 203.0.113.0/24 is correctly installed by checking the routing table. The current configuration has an incorrect next-hop causing recursive routing failure for the IPv4 static route.

Network Topology
G0/010.0.0.1/30G0/010.0.0.2/30linkG0/12001:db8:acad:2::1/64G0/12001:db8:acad:2::2/64linkR2R1R3

Hints

  • Check the next-hop IP of the IPv4 static route; it should not be the router's own interface.
  • IPv6 static routes cannot use an IPv4 next-hop; they require an IPv6 next-hop or an exit interface.
  • After correcting the recursive route, the floating default route will become active.
A.Change the IPv4 static route next-hop from 10.0.0.1 to 10.0.0.2, change the IPv6 static route next-hop from 10.0.0.2 to 2001:db8:acad:2::2, and change the IPv6 default route to use next-hop 2001:db8:acad:2::2.
B.Change the IPv4 static route next-hop from 10.0.0.1 to 10.0.0.2, and change the IPv6 static route to use exit interface G0/0 instead of a next-hop.
C.Change the IPv4 static route next-hop from 10.0.0.1 to 10.0.0.2, and change the IPv4 default route administrative distance to 1.
D.Change the IPv4 static route next-hop from 10.0.0.1 to 10.0.0.2, and change the IPv6 default route to use exit interface G0/0.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
no ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.1
ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 10.0.0.2
no ipv6 route 2001:db8:acad:1::/64 10.0.0.2
ipv6 route 2001:db8:acad:1::/64 2001:db8:acad:2::2
no ipv6 route ::/0 10.0.0.2
ipv6 route ::/0 2001:db8:acad:2::2

Why this answer

The IPv4 static route to 203.0.113.0/24 incorrectly uses next-hop 10.0.0.1 (R1's own interface) instead of 10.0.0.2 (R2), causing recursive routing failure because R1 tries to reach itself. To fix, change the next-hop to 10.0.0.2. The IPv6 static route to 2001:db8:acad:1::/64 also incorrectly uses an IPv4 next-hop; it must be a fully specified IPv6 next-hop (2001:db8:acad:2::2) or an exit interface.

The IPv4 default route has AD 200 which is correct for a floating route, but it is not shown in the routing table because there is no route to the next-hop; after fixing the recursive route, the default route will appear. The IPv6 default route uses an IPv4 next-hop which is invalid; it should be a fully specified IPv6 route (e.g., ipv6 route ::/0 2001:db8:acad:2::2).

Exam trap

A common trap is using the local interface IP as the next-hop for a static route, which causes recursive routing failure. Also, remember that IPv6 static routes require IPv6 next-hop addresses; using an IPv4 address is invalid. Floating static routes must have a higher AD than the primary route.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The IPv6 static route should use a fully specified next-hop (IPv6 address) rather than just an exit interface to avoid recursive routing failures.

C

Floating static routes require a higher administrative distance (e.g., 200) so they are only used when the primary route is unavailable.

D

A fully specified IPv6 static route includes both the exit interface and the next-hop IPv6 address to ensure proper routing.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates may think using an exit interface is simpler, but for IPv6 static routes, a fully specified route (next-hop and exit interface) is often required for reliability.

C

Candidates might think a lower AD is always better, but floating routes specifically need a higher AD to serve as backup.

D

Candidates may recall that for directly connected networks, an exit interface alone works, but for default routes, a next-hop is required to avoid recursive lookup failures.

181
MCQmedium

Which ACL type can filter using source and destination IP addresses as well as TCP or UDP port numbers?

A.Standard IPv4 ACL
B.Extended IPv4 ACL
C.Prefix list
D.Native VLAN ACL
AnswerB

Extended IPv4 ACLs, identified with a number in the range 100–199 or 2000–2699 (or by name), are designed to filter based on multiple criteria, including both the source and destination IP addresses. Additionally, they can match protocol (such as TCP, UDP, ICMP) and port numbers, providing granular traffic control. Thus, extended ACLs exactly satisfy the requirement of filtering using both source and destination IP.

Why this answer

Extended ACLs provide more granular matching, including source, destination, protocol, and Layer 4 port information.

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is assuming that standard IPv4 ACLs can filter traffic based on destination IP addresses or TCP/UDP port numbers. Standard ACLs only match the source IP address, so relying on them for detailed filtering leads to incorrect answers. Another pitfall is confusing prefix lists or native VLAN ACLs with extended ACLs; prefix lists are for route filtering, and native VLAN ACLs do not provide the same level of granularity.

This misunderstanding can cause candidates to select incorrect options that seem plausible but do not meet the question’s requirements for filtering by source, destination, and port numbers.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Standard IPv4 ACLs only filter traffic based on the source IP address and cannot filter by destination IP or TCP/UDP port numbers, making this option incorrect for the question's requirements.

C

Prefix lists are used primarily for route filtering in routing protocols and do not filter traffic based on Layer 4 port numbers or destination IP addresses, so this option is incorrect.

D

Native VLAN ACLs apply to traffic within a VLAN but do not provide the granular filtering capabilities involving source/destination IP and port numbers, so this option is not correct.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question asked which ACL type can filter traffic solely based on source IP addresses without considering destination IPs or port numbers, then a Standard IPv4 ACL would be the correct answer.

C

If the question asked about filtering routes in a routing protocol, such as OSPF or BGP, and specified the need to match IP prefixes rather than specific IP addresses or ports, then a prefix list would be the correct answer.

D

If the exam question asked about controlling traffic on a specific VLAN or managing VLAN membership based on certain criteria, then a Native VLAN ACL could be the correct answer, as it would pertain to the configuration of VLANs and their associated access controls.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students may confuse standard ACLs with extended ACLs because both are used for traffic filtering, but standard ACLs are simpler and often taught first, leading to the misconception that they can filter on more criteria.

C

The term 'prefix' might be associated with IP addresses, and students may think prefix lists can filter traffic like ACLs, but their purpose is entirely different—route advertisement control rather than packet filtering.

D

The term 'Native VLAN' is familiar from trunking concepts, and students might incorrectly assume there is a special ACL for the native VLAN, but no such ACL type exists in the CCNA curriculum.

182
MCQhard

A technician is troubleshooting an OSPF adjacency problem: R1 and R2 are not forming a neighbor relationship. R1's OSPF configuration includes the command 'network 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 area 0'. R2's GigabitEthernet0/0 is configured with IP address 10.1.1.1/30 and is participating in OSPF area 0. The engineer verifies that physical connectivity is fine and OSPF is enabled on R2. What is the most likely cause?

A.The OSPF network type on R1's interface differs from the network type on R2's interface.
B.R1's network statement does not include the subnet of the link connecting R1 and R2.
C.R1's router ID is not manually set and duplicates the router ID of R2.
D.Mismatched OSPF hello and dead intervals between the routers.
AnswerB

The command 'network 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 area 0' only enables OSPF on interfaces with an IP address in the 192.168.1.0/24 range. The link uses the 10.1.1.0/30 subnet, so R1's interface (e.g., 10.1.1.2/30) is not matched. Consequently, OSPF is inactive on that interface, and no neighbor relationship can form.

Why this answer

R1's network statement 'network 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 area 0' only enables OSPF on interfaces whose IP addresses fall within the 192.168.1.0/24 range. The link between R1 and R2 uses the 10.1.1.0/30 subnet (R2's GigabitEthernet0/0 is 10.1.1.1/30), so R1's interface on that link is not covered by the network statement. Without OSPF enabled on the connecting interface, R1 cannot send or receive OSPF hello packets, preventing neighbor adjacency formation.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the concept that the OSPF network statement must match the exact subnet of the interface connecting the routers, not just any subnet in the router's routing table, to ensure OSPF is enabled on the correct interface.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Candidates assume that OSPF adjacency failures on Ethernet links are often due to network type mismatches, without considering that the default settings match.

C

Candidates may remember that duplicate router‑IDs break OSPF and jump to this conclusion without first analyzing the simpler configuration issue.

D

Many students learn that timer mismatches are a common OSPF problem and may incorrectly assume they are the cause when the real issue is a basic configuration oversight.

183
MCQhard

A network engineer configures an EtherChannel between two Cisco switches SW1 and SW2 using LACP. After configuration, hosts connected to SW1 report intermittent connectivity to hosts on SW2. The engineer checks the EtherChannel status and sees that the trunk is up but only allows VLAN 1, while the hosts communicate across VLANs 10 and 20. Which command should the engineer apply to both switches to resolve the issue?

A.channel-group 1 mode active
B.switchport trunk allowed vlan 1,10,20
C.lacp rate fast
D.switchport mode trunk
AnswerB

This command ensures that all member ports of the EtherChannel have the same VLAN list. Inconsistent allowed VLANs across member ports can cause traffic to be dropped intermittently. Applying this to all member interfaces on both switches resolves the issue.

Why this answer

The output shows the EtherChannel is up but only VLAN 1 is allowed on the trunk, while the hosts on SW1 and SW2 communicate across VLANs 10 and 20. Applying 'switchport trunk allowed vlan 1,10,20' on both switches ensures all necessary VLANs are permitted over the EtherChannel, resolving the intermittent connectivity caused by dropped traffic for VLANs 10 and 20.

Exam trap

The trap here is that candidates assume the EtherChannel is fully functional once it shows as up/up, overlooking that the trunk's VLAN allowed list must match on both sides to pass traffic for all required VLANs.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The ports are already configured with LACP active mode, as indicated by the protocol being LACP and the ports being bundled. Reapplying this command does not address the root cause of intermittent connectivity, which is likely due to VLAN mismatch.

C

The 'lacp rate fast' command changes the LACP packet transmission rate to every second, which is used for faster failure detection. It does not affect VLAN consistency or cause intermittent connectivity; the issue is likely due to VLAN mismatch, not LACP rate.

D

The ports are already configured as trunk ports (the Po1 is Layer2 and trunking is implied). Reapplying 'switchport mode trunk' does not address the VLAN inconsistency that causes intermittent connectivity.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might think that changing the LACP mode could fix the issue, but the mode is already correct. They may confuse mode active with other modes like passive or desirable.

C

Students might associate 'fast' with improving performance or resolving connectivity issues, but this command is unrelated to VLAN configuration and would not fix the problem.

D

Students might think that ensuring trunk mode is set correctly could resolve the issue, but the problem is not about trunking mode; it's about inconsistent allowed VLANs across member ports.

184
MCQhard

R1 and R2 are directly connected. Both are configured in OSPF area 0, and they can successfully ping each other. However, OSPF neighbor adjacency fails. R1's interface is configured with `ip ospf authentication message-digest` and a valid key, while R2's interface has no OSPF authentication configured. What is the most likely cause?

A.The routers are in different OSPF areas.
B.The OSPF authentication settings do not match.
C.The routers need identical hostnames before adjacency can form.
D.The subnet mask prevents OSPF multicast traffic.
AnswerB

R1 has OSPF MD5 authentication configured for the interface, while R2 does not have matching `ip ospf authentication message-digest` configuration. As a result, R1's authenticated Hello packets are silently discarded by R2, so no neighbor adjacency forms despite the fact that the routers can ping each other. OSPF authentication requires identical types, key IDs, and passwords on both ends; any mismatch causes the Hellos to be ignored.

Why this answer

The most likely cause is an OSPF authentication mismatch. Although the routers have IP connectivity and are in the same OSPF area, OSPF adjacency requires matching security parameters. R1 uses message-digest authentication whereas R2 has none configured, preventing neighbor formation.

The other options are incorrect: the stem confirms they are in the same area (A), OSPF does not require identical hostnames (C), and successful pings prove the subnet mask does not block multicast traffic (D).

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is assuming that successful ping and matching OSPF areas guarantee neighbor adjacency. Candidates often overlook OSPF authentication mismatches, especially when one router uses message-digest authentication and the other does not. This leads to confusion because the link appears operational at Layer 3, but OSPF packets are discarded silently.

The trap exploits the misconception that IP connectivity alone is sufficient for OSPF adjacency, ignoring the protocol’s security requirements.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Both routers are explicitly in OSPF area 0, so they are not in different areas.

C

OSPF neighbor formation does not depend on matching hostnames; router IDs and interface parameters are what matter.

D

Since the routers can ping each other, IP reachability exists, indicating the subnet mask is not preventing OSPF multicast packets from being delivered.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different scenario, if the question indicated that R1 and R2 were configured in different OSPF areas, such as Area 0 for R1 and Area 1 for R2, then this option would be correct as routers in different areas cannot form OSPF adjacencies.

C

In a different scenario where the question specifies that OSPF adjacency is failing due to a requirement for routers to have matching hostnames for a proprietary implementation or a specific vendor's OSPF configuration, this option would be correct.

D

In a scenario where two routers are configured with different subnet masks on their directly connected interfaces, and the question specifically asks about OSPF adjacency issues related to subnet configurations, this option would be correct. For example, if one router is configured with a /24 mask and the other with a /30 mask, OSPF would fail to form an adjacency.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often confuse OSPF area mismatch as a common cause of adjacency failure, and if they misread the exhibit, they might think the areas differ.

C

Some students might confuse OSPF with protocols like EIGRP where the router ID must be unique, but hostnames are not a factor in OSPF adjacency formation.

D

Students might think that a non-default subnet mask could affect multicast delivery, but OSPF uses link-local multicast addresses that are not filtered by the subnet mask.

185
MCQhard

A router has both an OSPF route and a static route to the same destination. The static route has an administrative distance of 200. What is the expected behavior while the OSPF route remains available?

A.The static route remains a backup and is used only if the OSPF route is lost.
B.The static route overrides OSPF immediately because static routes always win.
C.Both routes must be installed simultaneously because they point to the same destination.
D.The router removes the OSPF route because the static route has a manually configured distance.
AnswerA

The OSPF route has an administrative distance of 110, while the static route's distance is explicitly configured higher (e.g., 125) to create a floating static route. Because the router always prefers the lowest administrative distance, OSPF is installed in the routing table and used for forwarding; the static route is held in reserve. If the OSPF neighbor adjacency fails or the route is withdrawn from the routing table, the router then installs the static route to maintain reachability.

Why this answer

The static route with an administrative distance of 200 behaves as a floating backup. In plain language, the router keeps it in reserve and prefers the OSPF route while OSPF is healthy, because OSPF’s default administrative distance of 110 is lower and therefore more trusted. The static route does not disappear from the configuration, but it stays out of the active routing table unless the better route is lost.

This is a very common CCNA concept because it shows how routing preference works between different route sources. The higher-distance static route is not useless; it is intentionally configured so that it becomes active only during a failure. That design provides backup routing without interfering with the normal dynamic path. The correct answer is the one describing the static route as a standby or floating route rather than as the preferred path.

Exam trap

Remember that lower administrative distance means higher preference, regardless of whether a route is static or dynamic.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Static routes do not always override dynamic routes; route selection is based on administrative distance. OSPF has a default AD of 110, which is lower than 200, so the OSPF route is preferred. The statement that static routes always win is incorrect because AD values determine preference.

C

Routers install only the best route (lowest AD) for a given destination in the routing table, unless equal-cost multipath (ECMP) is configured with identical metrics. Since OSPF and static routes have different ADs, they are not installed simultaneously; only the OSPF route is used.

D

The router does not remove the OSPF route because the static route has a manually configured distance. The OSPF route has a lower AD (110) than the static route's AD (200), so OSPF remains the preferred route and stays in the routing table.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a different scenario where a static route has a lower administrative distance than OSPF (e.g., a static route with a distance of 90), the static route would immediately override OSPF, making this option correct. The question would need to specify that the static route has a lower administrative distance.

C

In a different scenario where both routes have the same administrative distance, such as if the static route were configured with an administrative distance of 110 (the same as OSPF), the router would install both routes and use equal-cost multipath routing to forward packets.

D

In a different scenario where the static route has a lower administrative distance than the OSPF route, the router would remove the OSPF route from the routing table, making this option correct. For example, if the static route had an administrative distance of 110, it would take precedence over the OSPF route.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students often mistakenly believe that static routes are inherently preferred over dynamic routes due to their manual configuration. However, AD is the decisive factor, and a static route with a higher AD is less preferred.

C

Some students think that multiple routes to the same destination are always installed together for load balancing. However, load balancing requires equal AD and metric; otherwise, only the best route is installed.

D

Students may think that a manually configured distance on a static route gives it some special priority. However, the AD value is compared numerically; a higher AD means lower preference, so OSPF is not removed.

186
MCQhard

An administrator configured a floating static default route on R1 as a backup to reach 10.10.10.0/24. The primary path is learned via OSPF, and the floating static route uses an administrative distance of 130. After the primary OSPF neighbor fails, traffic to 10.10.10.0/24 is dropped. According to the exhibit, why is the backup default route not being used?

A.The static route specifies an outgoing interface that is down; the next‑hop must be reachable for the route to be used.
B.The administrative distance of 130 is still less than the OSPF default of 110, so it will never be installed.
C.The static route is missing the permanent keyword, which is required for backup routes.
D.The metric of the static route is too high; it should be reduced to 0.
AnswerA

Because the static route uses only the outgoing interface (Serial0/0/0) without a next‑hop IP, the interface must be up/up for the route to be placed in the RIB. Since Serial0/0/0 is down, the entry is invalid.

Why this answer

The floating static default route is not used because the outgoing interface specified in the static route is down. For a static route with an outgoing interface to be considered valid and installed in the routing table, the interface must be in an up/up state. When the primary OSPF neighbor fails, the backup static route cannot be used because its next-hop is unreachable due to the interface being down, causing traffic to be dropped.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction between static routes with an outgoing interface versus a next-hop IP address, where candidates mistakenly assume a floating static route will automatically become active when the primary route fails, without considering the interface state.

Why the other options are wrong

B

This misinterprets AD: after the primary route is gone, any route with a higher AD (i.e., lower numeric value) is no longer present, so the floating static route should be installed if reachable.

C

Permanent is rarely needed and does not make a route usable when the interface is down; it only keeps the routing table entry present, but traffic cannot be forwarded.

D

Changing a static route metric is not possible, and even if it were, it would not change the fact that the specified interface is down.

187
PBQhard

You are connected to R1. The network uses 192.168.1.0/24 for internal hosts and 203.0.113.0/29 for the public IP pool (203.0.113.2 is the outside interface). Configure PAT so that inside hosts can reach the Internet using the pool address 203.0.113.2. Also configure static NAT to map internal server 192.168.1.10 to 203.0.113.3. The initial config has errors; identify and fix them.

Hints

  • Check the ACL used by the PAT command — does it match the inside subnet?
  • The inside hosts are on 192.168.1.0/24, not 10.0.0.0/8.
  • Only the ACL needs correction; the static NAT and interface NAT designations are correct.
A.Change ACL 10 to permit 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 and ensure the NAT pool and PAT are correctly configured.
B.Change the NAT pool to use a different public IP address and update the static NAT mapping.
C.Remove the static NAT and use PAT for the server as well.
D.Change the inside interface IP address to match the ACL.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
configure terminal
no access-list 10
access-list 10 permit 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255
end

Why this answer

The ACL 10 permits 10.0.0.0/8, but inside hosts are on 192.168.1.0/24 — this ACL does not match the inside subnet, so PAT fails. The static NAT is correct. To fix: change ACL 10 to permit 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255.

Also ensure the PAT references the correct ACL; currently it uses list 10, so after fixing the ACL, PAT will work. No other changes needed.

Exam trap

Candidates often overlook the ACL used in NAT and assume the NAT configuration is complete. Always verify that the ACL matches the inside network exactly. Also, remember that static NAT and PAT can coexist; do not remove static NAT if it is required.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The specific factual error is that the pool address 203.0.113.2 and static mapping to 203.0.113.3 are valid and do not need changing.

C

The specific factual error is that PAT does not allow inbound connections initiated from outside; static NAT is required for that purpose.

D

The specific factual error is that the inside interface IP is part of the 192.168.1.0/24 network and should not be changed; the ACL should be adjusted instead.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think the pool or static mapping is wrong because they misread the requirements or assume a conflict, but the problem is solely the ACL.

C

Candidates might think PAT can handle all traffic, but static NAT is necessary for servers that need to be reachable from the Internet.

D

Candidates might think the ACL is correct and the network should be changed to match, but that is not practical and would break connectivity.

188
MCQmedium

Exhibit: R1 shows an OSPF neighbor stuck in EXSTART with R2 on a serial link. What is the most likely cause?

A.An OSPF area mismatch
B.A duplicate router ID on R1 and R2
C.An interface MTU mismatch between the routers
D.A missing default route on R2
AnswerC

When the MTU on the connecting interfaces differs, the routers negotiate Database Descriptor (DBD) packet sizes during the EXSTART/EXCHANGE handshake. R1 may send a DBD packet that exceeds R2's interface MTU, causing R2 to silently drop it, so the adjacency never advances past EXSTART. The router with the larger MTU will repeatedly fail to receive acknowledgment for its DBD, leaving both neighbors stuck in the EXSTART state while the OSPF process waits for a response.

Why this answer

When two OSPF routers stay in EXSTART, the first thing to suspect is an MTU mismatch. They can discover each other, but database exchange does not complete because the DBD packets do not agree on interface MTU.

Exam trap

Be aware that MTU mismatches cause EXSTART issues, while other mismatches prevent adjacency formation.

Why the other options are wrong

A

An OSPF area mismatch prevents routers from forming a full adjacency; they typically remain in the INIT or 2-WAY state, not EXSTART. The EXSTART state indicates that the routers have already exchanged Hello packets and are attempting to negotiate the master/slave relationship, which requires matching area IDs.

B

Duplicate router IDs cause OSPF to behave unpredictably, often resulting in flapping adjacencies or multiple neighbors with the same ID, but they do not typically cause a stuck EXSTART state on a single link. The routers would still progress through the states, but the adjacency may be unstable.

D

A missing default route on R2 does not affect OSPF adjacency formation. OSPF neighbors exchange routing information using multicast Hello and DD packets, which do not require a default route. The adjacency process is independent of the routing table content.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different question setup where the focus is on OSPF neighbor relationships failing completely, an area mismatch could be presented as a potential cause for neighbors not forming at all. For example, if the question described routers in different OSPF areas trying to establish a neighbor relationship, this option would be correct.

B

If the question were about OSPF neighbor relationships failing to establish due to configuration issues, and it explicitly mentioned that both routers have the same router ID, then option B would be the correct answer. This could occur in a scenario where both routers are configured with identical router IDs, leading to OSPF not forming any adjacency.

D

In a different scenario, if the question specified that R2 was unable to route packets to R1 due to a lack of a default route, and the context involved troubleshooting routing issues rather than OSPF adjacency, then this option could be correct.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often associate OSPF neighbor issues with area mismatches because it is a common configuration error. However, the specific state (EXSTART) points to a different problem, such as MTU mismatch, rather than area mismatch.

B

Duplicate router ID is a well-known OSPF issue, and test-takers may assume it can cause any neighbor problem. However, the EXSTART state is specifically related to the Database Description (DD) packet exchange, which is not directly affected by duplicate IDs.

D

Students may confuse the need for a default route for general network connectivity with the specific requirements for OSPF neighbor establishment. Since OSPF is a dynamic routing protocol, it does not rely on default routes to form adjacencies.

189
MCQmedium

A network administrator is troubleshooting a Windows 10 client that cannot access a web server at 192.168.1.100. The client has an IP address of 192.168.1.50/24 and can ping its default gateway (192.168.1.1) successfully, but ping to 192.168.1.100 fails. Which command should the administrator run next to verify the client's current network connections and identify potential issues with active sessions?

A.ipconfig /all
B.netstat -a
C.tracert 192.168.1.100
D.ping -t 192.168.1.100
AnswerB

This command shows all active TCP connections and listening ports on the client, allowing the administrator to see if there are any established sessions to the web server or if the web server's port is being blocked or not responding.

Why this answer

The `netstat -a` command displays all active TCP/UDP connections and listening ports, which is the most direct way to verify current network sessions and identify issues such as blocked ports, half-open connections, or failed connection attempts. While ping failure could result from network-layer filtering (e.g., ACLs blocking ICMP), `netstat -a` reveals whether the client has initiated a TCP connection to 192.168.1.100 and its current state (e.g., SYN_SENT, ESTABLISHED, TIME_WAIT), helping to isolate transport-layer or application-layer problems.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction between Layer 3 connectivity (ping/tracert) and Layer 4 session verification (netstat), trapping candidates who assume that successful ping implies full application-layer connectivity.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The ipconfig /all command displays detailed IP configuration, including DNS servers and MAC addresses, but does not show active network connections or sessions. Since the client can ping the gateway, IP configuration is likely correct, and this command does not help identify issues with active sessions to the web server.

C

The tracert command performs a route trace to the destination, which requires Layer 3 reachability. Since ping to 192.168.1.100 already failed, tracert will likely also fail and does not provide information about active connections or listening ports. It is useful for identifying where packets are dropped along the path, but not for verifying active sessions.

D

The ping -t command sends continuous ICMP echo requests to test reachability over time, but it does not reveal connection states or listening ports. Since ping already failed, continuous pings will also fail and do not help identify issues with active TCP sessions to the web server.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often use ipconfig /all as a first step in troubleshooting network issues because it provides a comprehensive view of the client's network settings. However, it does not reveal connection states or listening ports, which are needed to diagnose why a specific web server is unreachable.

C

Students may think tracert is the next logical step after a failed ping to see where the failure occurs. However, the question specifically asks about verifying current network connections and active sessions, which tracert does not show.

D

Students might use continuous ping to monitor if the server becomes reachable later, but this does not provide information about active connections or sessions. The question asks for a command to verify current network connections, which ping does not do.

190
PBQhard

You are connected to R1. The network requires HSRP for default gateway redundancy on subnet 192.168.1.0/24. R2 should be the active router, and R1 the standby. Currently, both routers show as active. Configure R1 with priority 90, enable preempt, ensure the virtual IP is 192.168.1.254, and configure tracking of interface GigabitEthernet0/1 (subnet 203.0.113.0/30) so that if R1's tracked interface goes down, its priority decreases by 20. Verify the final state with 'show standby brief'.

Network Topology
G0/0192.168.1.1/24G0/0192.168.1.2/24G0/1203.0.113.1/30R2switchR1ISP

Hints

  • Both routers show active; check priority values and preempt configuration.
  • The virtual IP must match on both routers; verify it's 192.168.1.254.
  • Use 'standby 1 track' with the correct interface and decrement value.
A.interface GigabitEthernet0/0 standby version 2 standby 1 ip 192.168.1.254 standby 1 priority 90 standby 1 preempt standby 1 track GigabitEthernet0/1 20
B.interface GigabitEthernet0/0 standby version 2 standby 1 ip 192.168.1.254 standby 1 priority 110 standby 1 preempt standby 1 track GigabitEthernet0/1 20
C.interface GigabitEthernet0/0 standby version 2 standby 1 ip 192.168.1.254 standby 1 priority 90 standby 1 preempt standby 1 track GigabitEthernet0/1 30
D.interface GigabitEthernet0/0 standby version 2 standby 1 ip 192.168.1.254 standby 1 priority 90 standby 1 preempt standby 1 track GigabitEthernet0/0 20
AnswerA
solution
! R1
interface GigabitEthernet0/0
standby 1 priority 90
standby 1 preempt
standby 1 track GigabitEthernet0/1 20
end

Why this answer

The scenario requires R2 to be the HSRP active router. By default, both routers have priority 100, and HSRP election would select the router with the higher IP address as active if priorities are equal. To ensure R2 becomes active, R1's priority must be lowered to 90.

Additionally, tracking interface GigabitEthernet0/1 with a decrement of 20 is configured so that if R1's uplink fails, its priority drops to 70, further preventing it from becoming active. The correct configuration on R1 sets priority 90, enables preempt, and tracks the correct interface with decrement 20. Options B, C, and D are wrong because: B sets a higher priority (110) which would make R1 active; C uses an incorrect decrement of 30; and D tracks the wrong interface (Gig0/0 instead of Gig0/1).

Exam trap

Trap: Candidates may think that increasing priority ensures redundancy, but the requirement specifies R2 as active, so R1's priority must be lower. Also, ensure the tracked interface is the correct one (Gig0/1) and the decrement value matches exactly.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The priority value is higher than the default, which would make R1 active instead of standby.

C

The decrement value does not match the required 20; it is 30.

D

The tracked interface is wrong; it should be GigabitEthernet0/1, not GigabitEthernet0/0.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates may think increasing priority ensures redundancy, but the requirement specifies R2 as active, so R1's priority must be lower.

C

Candidates may confuse the decrement value or think a larger decrement provides better failover, but the exact value must match the requirement.

D

Candidates may mistakenly track the HSRP interface thinking it monitors the HSRP state, but tracking should be on an upstream interface to detect connectivity loss.

191
MCQmedium

Which WAN technology is most closely associated with establishing a direct point-to-point data-link connection between two routers over a serial link?

A.PPP
B.CAPWAP
C.SNMP
D.STP
AnswerA

PPP (Point-to-Point Protocol) is a data-link layer WAN encapsulation specifically designed for establishing and maintaining point-to-point connections over serial links. It provides essential features such as authentication (PAP/CHAP), error detection, and optional multilink bundling, making it the standard for legacy serial WAN interfaces. This directly aligns with the question's focus on WAN technologies, confirming PPP as the correct answer.

Why this answer

PPP is the WAN technology most closely associated with point-to-point serial connections between routers. In practical terms, it is a Layer 2 WAN encapsulation method commonly discussed in traditional serial WAN contexts. It supports features such as authentication and link negotiation that make it more flexible than older basic encapsulations.

This is one of the classic CCNA WAN topics.

Exam trap

Don't confuse general WAN technologies like Frame Relay and MPLS with protocols specifically designed for point-to-point serial links.

Why the other options are wrong

B

CAPWAP is a control and provisioning protocol for wireless access points and controllers, not a WAN encapsulation for serial links. It operates at the application layer and is used in wireless LAN architectures, not for point-to-point data-link connections.

C

SNMP is an application-layer protocol for network management and monitoring, used to collect statistics and configure devices. It does not provide data-link layer encapsulation or establish point-to-point connections over serial links.

D

STP is a Layer 2 protocol that prevents loops in Ethernet switched networks by blocking redundant paths. It has no role in WAN serial links, which are point-to-point and inherently loop-free.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

If the exam question asked about protocols used for managing wireless networks or controlling access points in a WLAN environment, CAPWAP would be the correct answer, as it specifically addresses the management of multiple access points in a centralized manner.

C

If the exam question were to ask about the protocol used for network management and monitoring of devices in a WAN environment, SNMP would be the correct answer. For instance, a question could specify the management of network devices and their performance metrics.

D

If the exam question asked about protocols used to manage network topology and prevent loops in a switched network, STP would be the correct answer, as it is specifically designed for that purpose.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students might confuse CAPWAP with PPP because both are used in networking and have acronyms starting with 'P', but CAPWAP is specific to wireless, not serial WAN links.

C

Since SNMP is widely used in network operations, a student might think it is involved in WAN connectivity, but it is a management tool, not a WAN encapsulation protocol.

D

The acronym STP is similar to PPP, and both are Layer 2 protocols, leading students to mistakenly associate STP with WAN encapsulation instead of its actual function in switching.

192
MCQhard

A REST API call uses the GET method against a device inventory endpoint. What is the most likely intent of the call?

A.To retrieve information from the endpoint.
B.To delete the endpoint from the controller.
C.To replace the endpoint with a new resource.
D.To force the device into PPP mode.
AnswerA

The HTTP GET method is used to retrieve a representation of a resource from the server without causing side effects. In RESTful APIs, GET is a safe and idempotent operation, meaning it only reads data and does not modify the server state. Therefore, calling GET against a device inventory returns the current inventory information.

Why this answer

The most likely intent is to retrieve information, not to create or delete it. In practical terms, GET is commonly used when a client wants to read state or inventory data from an API endpoint. This is one of the most basic REST-style concepts in network automation.

The key is to associate method semantics with likely operational intent.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is confusing the GET method with other HTTP methods like DELETE or PUT. Candidates might incorrectly assume GET can modify or delete resources because they associate API calls with configuration changes. However, GET is strictly for retrieving information and does not alter device state.

Misreading this can lead to selecting options that imply deletion or replacement, which are handled by DELETE and PUT respectively. Recognizing the safe, read-only nature of GET prevents this mistake and aligns with REST API best practices in Cisco automation.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Incorrect because DELETE is the HTTP method used to remove resources. GET does not delete or alter the endpoint or its data, so this option misrepresents REST API semantics.

C

Incorrect because replacing or updating a resource is typically done with the PUT method. GET does not modify or replace resources, so this option confuses method purposes.

D

Incorrect because forcing a device into PPP mode is a configuration action unrelated to REST API method semantics. GET calls do not trigger operational mode changes.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

If the question asked about a DELETE method call against a device inventory endpoint, then option B would be correct, as it would indicate the intent to remove that endpoint from the controller.

C

If the exam question asked about the intent of a PUT request against a device inventory endpoint, option C would be correct, as PUT is used to replace an existing resource with a new representation.

D

If the question were framed to ask about the intent of a POST or PUT method call targeting a device's configuration endpoint, where the action involves changing the device's operational mode, then option D could be correct.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

A student might confuse GET with DELETE if they think 'getting rid of' something is similar to 'getting' it, but in HTTP, GET is strictly for retrieval, not removal.

C

Some might think GET can replace because they associate 'get' with 'obtain a new version', but HTTP methods have distinct semantics: PUT for replacement, GET for retrieval.

D

A student might incorrectly link 'GET' with 'getting a device into a mode' due to the word 'get', but in networking, mode changes are typically done via configuration commands, not HTTP GET requests.

193
MCQmedium

A router is configured for NAT overload, but translations never appear when inside users browse the internet. Which issue is most likely?

A.The outside interface is missing the ip nat outside command
B.The ACL used by NAT must deny inside addresses
C.PAT requires DHCP on the inside interface
D.NAT overload works only with OSPF-learned routes
AnswerA

Without inside and outside roles, overload translations will not build correctly.

Why this answer

NAT needs the inside and outside interfaces marked correctly. If those roles are missing or reversed, the router has no context for translating traffic and the NAT table stays empty.

Exam trap

Ensure inside and outside interfaces are correctly set for NAT; misconfigurations here are a common oversight.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The ACL used by NAT should match the inside local addresses that need to be translated, typically using a permit statement. If the ACL denies inside addresses, no traffic will be matched for translation, causing NAT to fail. The correct ACL should permit the inside network.

C

PAT (Port Address Translation) does not require DHCP on any interface. PAT translates multiple private IP addresses to a single public IP using different port numbers, and it works independently of how IP addresses are assigned. DHCP is only needed if the interface needs to obtain an IP address dynamically.

D

NAT overload (PAT) is independent of the routing protocol used. It works with static routes, OSPF, EIGRP, or any other routing protocol. The routing protocol only affects how packets are forwarded, not how NAT translates addresses.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

If the question were about restricting NAT to only certain inside hosts (e.g., 'Which ACL configuration would prevent inside users from being translated?'), then an ACL that denies those addresses would be correct.

C

If the question asked 'Which feature is required on the inside interface for NAT overload to translate private addresses when using dynamic addressing?', then DHCP would be correct because inside hosts need IP addresses from a DHCP server to communicate through NAT.

D

In a scenario where the question specifies that NAT overload must only translate traffic for routes learned via OSPF (e.g., to restrict translation to specific destinations), then an ACL or route-map referencing OSPF-learned routes could be required. For example: 'A router must perform NAT overload only for traffic destined to networks learned via OSPF. Which configuration is needed?'

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students might think that NAT should deny private addresses to prevent them from being translated, but in reality, NAT translates private addresses to public ones. The confusion arises from the idea of filtering traffic, but NAT ACLs are used to identify which addresses to translate, not to block them.

C

Some students may associate NAT with DHCP because both are often used together in home networks to provide internet access. However, they are separate functions; DHCP assigns IP addresses, while NAT translates them. PAT can work with static IPs or DHCP-assigned IPs.

D

Students might think that because OSPF is a common protocol in enterprise networks, NAT might depend on it. However, NAT operates at Layer 3 and is not tied to any specific routing protocol. The confusion may come from the fact that NAT often works with routing to ensure return traffic reaches the correct inside host.

194
MCQmedium

What is version control primarily used for in network automation workflows?

A.To replace authentication for API clients
B.To track changes and maintain history for code and templates
C.To automatically assign switchport VLANs in real time
D.To discover neighboring devices at Layer 2
AnswerB

The core purpose of version control is to record every change made to code, scripts, and configuration templates, creating a full audit trail. In network automation, tools like Git enable engineers to roll back to previous states, compare revisions, and collaborate through branching and merging. This history ensures changes to network infrastructure are reproducible, testable, and compliant with change-management processes.

Why this answer

Version control tracks changes to code and configuration artifacts, enabling rollback, collaboration, and auditability.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is mistaking version control for a live network function like VLAN assignment or device discovery. Some candidates incorrectly believe version control directly manages network devices in real time, such as automatically assigning VLANs or discovering neighbors. However, version control only manages the files that define these actions, not the actions themselves.

Confusing these roles leads to selecting incorrect options that describe operational network tasks rather than the management and tracking of automation code and templates.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Option A is incorrect because version control systems do not replace authentication for API clients. Authentication is handled by security protocols and credentials, not by version control.

C

Option C is incorrect because version control does not assign VLANs or perform any real-time network configuration tasks; it only manages the files that define such configurations.

D

Option D is incorrect because discovering neighboring devices at Layer 2 is a network function performed by protocols like CDP or LLDP, not by version control systems.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the exam question asked about methods for securing API access in a network automation context, then this option could be correct. For example, a question might ask how to ensure that only authorized users can interact with an API, where replacing authentication methods would be relevant.

C

If the exam question were to ask about tools or methods specifically designed for real-time network configuration management, such as automating VLAN assignments based on network policies, then option C could be correct in that context.

D

If the exam question asked about the primary purpose of network protocols in managing device connectivity and topology, then option D could be correct, as it would pertain to the role of Layer 2 discovery protocols in identifying neighboring devices.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might confuse version control's role in managing configuration files with authentication, as both are part of secure network automation workflows.

C

Students may think version control can automate network tasks because it is often used in conjunction with automation tools, but it only manages the files, not the execution.

D

Students might associate version control with network discovery because both are used in network automation, but they serve entirely different purposes.

195
MCQmedium

A switch port connected to an end host should forward traffic for one VLAN only and should not negotiate trunking. Which configuration approach best fits that requirement?

A.Configure the interface with `switchport mode access`
B.Configure the interface with `switchport mode trunk`
C.Configure the interface with `switchport mode dynamic desirable`
D.Configure the interface with `no switchport`
AnswerA

Configuring 'switchport mode access' forces the interface to operate in permanent access mode, disabling Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) and ensuring the port carries untagged traffic for only one VLAN—usually VLAN 1 by default unless reassigned with 'switchport access vlan'. This deterministic, secure configuration is exactly what an end host expects, because most host NICs send untagged frames and rely on the switch to place them in the proper broadcast domain. It is the industry-standard best practice for connecting PCs, printers, and other typical end devices.

Why this answer

The best approach is to configure the interface as an access port. In plain language, this tells the switch that the interface is for a normal endpoint and should belong to one VLAN rather than carry multiple VLANs like a trunk. It also avoids reliance on dynamic trunk negotiation, which is usually unnecessary and potentially confusing for a user-facing connection.

This is a standard access-layer design principle. End hosts such as PCs and printers usually connect to access ports, not trunks. That is why the correct answer is the one centered on explicit access-port behavior.

Exam trap

Avoid confusing trunking features with access port requirements. Remember, end devices typically connect via access ports.

Why the other options are wrong

B

A trunk port is designed to carry traffic for multiple VLANs between switches, not for a single end host. Using switchport mode trunk on an access port would allow multiple VLANs and enable trunk negotiation, violating the requirement.

C

The dynamic desirable mode actively attempts to form a trunk with the connected device using DTP. This allows trunk negotiation, which contradicts the requirement to not negotiate trunking and to forward traffic for only one VLAN.

D

The no switchport command converts the Layer 2 switch port into a Layer 3 routed port, which does not operate as a switch port and cannot be assigned to a VLAN. This is used for routing between VLANs, not for connecting an end host to a single VLAN.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a scenario where the question specifies that a switch port needs to support multiple VLANs for inter-VLAN routing or to connect to another switch that requires trunking, then `switchport mode trunk` would be the correct configuration.

C

In a scenario where the question specifies that the switch port should support dynamic trunking negotiation to allow for flexibility in VLAN assignments, `switchport mode dynamic desirable` would be the correct answer. This would apply in environments where multiple VLANs are expected and trunking is acceptable.

D

In a scenario where the question specifies that the switch port should be used for routing between different subnets without VLAN tagging, `no switchport` would be the correct configuration to enable Layer 3 routing functionality on that interface.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students may confuse trunking with the ability to carry VLAN traffic, but they might not realize that trunk ports are for inter-switch links, not end-host connections.

C

Students might think 'dynamic' implies automatic configuration for a single VLAN, but dynamic desirable actually initiates trunk negotiation, making it unsuitable for an end host.

D

Students may think removing switchport functionality simplifies the port, but they overlook that it changes the port to a routed interface, which is not appropriate for a standard end-host connection.

196
Multi-Selectmedium

Which TWO symptoms are most likely to appear in the output of 'show interfaces' when a duplex mismatch exists between a switch port and a connected host?

Select 2 answers
A.Excessive collisions and CRC errors on the interface
B.Runts and frame errors on the interface
C.Auto-negotiation failed message in the interface output
D.High input rate on the interface
E.Line protocol is down
AnswersA, B

In a duplex mismatch, the side forced to half-duplex continues to use CSMA/CD and expects to transmit only when the medium is clear. Because the full-duplex peer transmits without first performing carrier sense, the half-duplex side experiences collisions on nearly every frame. These collisions are reported as excessive collisions in the interface output, and the frames that are truncated or otherwise corrupted during the collisions fail the FCS, resulting in CRC errors. Thus, excessive collisions and CRC errors are the hallmark symptoms on the half-duplex side of a mismatch.

Why this answer

A duplex mismatch causes collisions on the half-duplex side, resulting in excessive collisions and CRC errors (option A). On the full-duplex side, the host receives truncated frames from the half-duplex side's collisions, leading to runts and frame errors (option B). Option C is incorrect because 'Auto-negotiation failed' would appear only if negotiation itself failed, not from a mismatch after successful negotiation.

Option D is wrong because a duplex mismatch typically reduces throughput and causes errors, not a high input rate. Option E is incorrect because the line protocol remains up; duplex mismatch does not bring the line protocol down.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction that 'runts' and 'frame errors' are symptoms of duplex mismatch on the full-duplex side, while 'excessive collisions' and 'CRC errors' appear on the half-duplex side, and candidates may incorrectly assume both symptoms appear on the same interface.

Why the other options are wrong

C

A duplex mismatch occurs after auto-negotiation completes; no 'auto-negotiation failed' message appears on the interface.

D

Duplex mismatch causes errors and retransmissions, usually reducing the effective input rate, not increasing it.

E

Duplex mismatch keeps the line protocol up; it affects data integrity but not the Layer 1/2 link state.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

C

Students may think that a duplex mismatch always results from auto-negotiation failure, but mismatches can occur even with successful auto-negotiation when manual configuration overrides it. The 'show interfaces' output does not explicitly indicate negotiation failure.

D

Some might assume that errors lead to retransmissions, increasing the input rate. However, in practice, the interface counters show errors, not high throughput, and the input rate is often normal or low.

E

Students may confuse duplex mismatch with other issues that cause the line protocol to go down, such as a cable fault or misconfiguration. However, duplex mismatch only affects data integrity, not the line protocol state.

197
MCQhard

A packet destined for 10.1.1.130 arrives at the router. Based on the routing table, which route will be used?

A.The static route to 10.1.1.128/25
B.The default route
C.The OSPF route to 10.1.1.0/24
D.The OSPF route to 10.1.0.0/16
AnswerA

The static route to 10.1.1.128/25 is chosen because the router performs a longest prefix match (LPM) on the destination address. 10.1.1.130 falls within the range 10.1.1.128–10.1.1.255, and the /25 prefix length (25 bits) is the most specific match among all routes in the routing table. Even though other routes exist, this one has the greatest number of bits matching the destination, so it is preferred regardless of administrative distance or metric.

Why this answer

Routers do not choose the route with the lowest administrative distance first when several routes match a destination. They begin with the most specific matching prefix. In practical terms, the router looks for the narrowest route that still contains the destination address. The packet is going to 10.1.1.130. That address fits inside 10.1.1.128/25, and it also fits inside 10.1.1.0/24 and 10.1.0.0/16. But /25 is the most specific of those matches, so the router uses it.

Only after determining that two routes have the same prefix length would the router consider administrative distance and metric. The default route is ignored because more specific matches exist.

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is to mistakenly select the default route or a less specific OSPF route because they appear in the routing table. Candidates often overlook that routers prioritize the longest prefix match before considering administrative distance or route type. This leads to choosing the default route or a broader subnet like 10.1.1.0/24 or 10.1.0.0/16 instead of the more specific static route 10.1.1.128/25.

Misunderstanding this can cause incorrect answers and confusion about how Cisco routers forward packets.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The default route is incorrect because it is the least specific route and only used when no other matching routes exist; here, more specific routes are available.

C

The OSPF route to 10.1.1.0/24 is less specific than the /25 static route, so it is not selected despite matching the destination IP address.

D

The OSPF route to 10.1.0.0/16 is the least specific among the options and will not be chosen when more specific routes like /24 or /25 exist.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

If the question specified that there were no specific routes for 10.1.1.130 and only a default route was configured, then the default route would be the correct answer. For example, if the routing table only contained a default route and no other specific routes, this option would apply.

C

If the question specified that the router was configured to use OSPF as the primary routing protocol and that the static route was not present or had a lower administrative distance, then the OSPF route to 10.1.1.0/24 would be the correct answer for routing the packet to 10.1.1.130.

D

In a different question scenario where the routing table only contains the OSPF route to 10.1.0.0/16 and no more specific routes, a packet destined for any address within that subnet, including 10.1.1.130, would correctly use this route as the best match.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students might think the default route is always used as a catch-all, but it is only a last resort. Without understanding longest prefix match, they may incorrectly assume the default route applies.

C

A student might see that the destination is within the /24 range and think it matches, but forget that a more specific route (like /25) takes precedence. This is a common confusion between prefix length and route selection.

D

Students might think that a larger network (like /16) is more likely to be used, but in routing, specificity (longer prefix) is key. They may confuse network size with route preference.

198
PBQhard

You are connected to R1 via the console. R1 has two directly connected routers: R2 and R3. Currently, R1 cannot reach R2's loopback interface (203.0.113.1/32). Additionally, R3 is IPv6-only and must be reachable from R1 using a statically assigned global unicast address. Configure R1's interfaces and static routes so that: (1) R1 can ping R2's loopback, (2) R1 can ping R3's IPv6 address 2001:db8:acad:2::1/64, and (3) R1's IPv6 address on the link to R3 is derived using EUI-64.

Hints

  • Check the subnet of the IPv6 address on R1's G0/1; it should match R3's subnet.
  • R2's loopback is not directly connected; a static route is needed.
  • EUI-64 uses the MAC address; ensure the prefix is correct.
A.Configure R1's G0/0 with IP 192.168.1.1/24 and add a static route to 203.0.113.1/32 via 192.168.1.2. Configure R1's G0/1 with IPv6 address 2001:db8:acad:2::/64 eui-64.
B.Configure R1's G0/0 with IP 192.168.1.1/24 and add a static route to 203.0.113.0/24 via 192.168.1.2. Configure R1's G0/1 with IPv6 address 2001:db8:acad:1::/64 eui-64.
C.Configure R1's G0/0 with IP 192.168.1.1/24 and add a static route to 203.0.113.1/32 via 192.168.1.2. Configure R1's G0/1 with IPv6 address 2001:db8:acad:2::1/64.
D.Configure R1's G0/0 with IP 192.168.1.1/24 and add a static route to 203.0.113.1/32 via 192.168.1.2. Configure R1's G0/1 with IPv6 address 2001:db8:acad:1::/64 eui-64.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
interface GigabitEthernet0/1
ipv6 address 2001:db8:acad:2::/64 eui-64
exit
ip route 203.0.113.1 255.255.255.255 192.168.1.2

Why this answer

The ping to R2's loopback fails because R1's G0/0 is configured with a /24 mask, but the network should be /24 (which is correct), but the loopback is on a different subnet (203.0.113.0/24 vs 192.168.1.0/24). Actually the issue is that R1 has no route to 203.0.113.1. The solution is to add a static route on R1 pointing to R2's G0/0 IP.

For IPv6, R1's EUI-64 address is on the wrong subnet (2001:db8:acad:1::/64) but R3 is on 2001:db8:acad:2::/64. The fix is to change the IPv6 address on R1's G0/1 to 2001:db8:acad:2::/64 eui-64. Then add an IPv6 static route if needed (but R1 and R3 are directly connected, so after fixing the subnet, ping should work).

Exam trap

Watch out for subnet mismatches in IPv6 and the requirement to use EUI-64. Many candidates forget that EUI-64 requires the 'eui-64' keyword, not a manual interface ID. Also, ensure static routes point to the exact host (/32) when the destination is a loopback.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The IPv6 subnet mismatch prevents direct connectivity; R1 and R3 must be on the same subnet for a ping to work without additional routing.

C

The requirement explicitly states that the IPv6 address must be derived using EUI-64; a manually specified interface ID violates this.

D

The IPv6 subnet must be the same as R3's for direct connectivity; using a different subnet requires additional routing, which is not configured.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think any /64 subnet works or that the static route to the loopback should match the network prefix rather than the host address.

C

Candidates may think that any valid IPv6 address on the correct subnet satisfies the requirement, overlooking the EUI-64 specification.

D

Candidates might confuse the subnet for R1's link to R3 with another subnet or think EUI-64 automatically ensures reachability regardless of subnet.

199
MCQhard

A switch has DHCP snooping enabled and Dynamic ARP Inspection enabled on VLAN 30. A printer with a static IP on VLAN 30 cannot communicate because its ARP packets are being dropped. What is the best fix?

A.Disable DAI on all VLANs globally.
B.Configure a static ARP inspection entry or ARP ACL for the printer.
C.Trust the user-facing printer access port for DHCP snooping and DAI.
D.Change the printer to use a larger MTU.
AnswerB

A printer with a static IP never generates a DHCP lease, so DAI finds no matching binding entry and discards its ARP packets. By configuring a static ARP access-list entry or a static DHCP snooping binding, you give the switch an explicit IP-to-MAC mapping to validate the printer's ARP traffic. This targeted fix resolves the issue without reducing security for other hosts.

Why this answer

DAI relies on trusted bindings. Static-IP devices that are not learned through DHCP often require a static ARP ACL or equivalent trusted binding mechanism.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is to disable Dynamic ARP Inspection entirely or trust the user-facing access port to fix ARP packet drops from static IP devices. Disabling DAI weakens the network’s ARP spoofing protection, which is against best practices and exam expectations. Trusting access ports is too broad and can allow malicious ARP traffic, defeating the purpose of DAI.

The trap is that these options seem easier but compromise security, whereas the correct approach is to configure static ARP inspection entries or ARP ACLs for static IP devices to maintain security and functionality.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Disabling DAI on all VLANs globally removes ARP spoofing protection network-wide, which is excessive and reduces security unnecessarily. The question requires a targeted fix, so this option is incorrect.

C

Trusting the user-facing printer access port for DHCP snooping and DAI is too permissive and can allow malicious ARP packets, weakening security. It is not recommended as a best practice or exam answer.

D

Changing the printer to use a larger MTU does not affect ARP packet validation or DAI behavior. MTU size is unrelated to ARP inspection, so this option is irrelevant and incorrect.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a scenario where a network administrator is troubleshooting a network-wide ARP spoofing issue and determines that DAI is overly restrictive across all VLANs, they may decide to disable DAI globally to restore normal ARP functionality for all devices, including printers.

C

In a scenario where a network is configured with multiple VLANs and DAI is enabled, but a specific port for a trusted device (like a server) needs to bypass DAI for legitimate traffic, trusting that port would be the correct answer. This would allow ARP packets from that trusted device to pass through without being inspected.

D

In a different scenario where a network is experiencing fragmentation issues due to mismatched MTU settings, a question could ask for a solution to improve communication between devices. In that case, suggesting a larger MTU for the printer could be the correct answer to resolve packet fragmentation.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

A student might think disabling DAI is a quick fix to stop ARP drops, but they overlook that DAI is a valuable security feature that should be selectively bypassed for static devices rather than disabled entirely.

C

A student might confuse 'trusting' a port with allowing a static device to communicate, but trust is typically applied to uplink ports (e.g., to routers or other switches), not to access ports where end devices connect.

D

A student might think that increasing MTU could help if packets are being dropped, but they confuse DAI's ARP validation with MTU-related fragmentation issues, which are unrelated.

200
PBQhard

You are connected to R1. The network consists of three routers: R1, R2, and R3. R1 must reach the loopback network 203.0.113.0/24 on R3 via two paths: a primary static route through R2's G0/0 (192.0.2.2) and a floating static route through R2's G0/1 (198.51.100.2) with an administrative distance of 150. Additionally, R1 already has a default route pointing to 192.0.2.2. Configure the two static routes to 203.0.113.0/24 on R1 as described. The default route does not need to be changed. Verify that the primary route is active and the floating route is used only if the primary fails.

Network Topology
G0/0192.0.2.1/30G0/0192.0.2.2/30G0/0192.0.2.2/30Lo0203.0.113.1/24R2R1R3

Hints

  • Check the administrative distance of the floating static route; it should be higher than the primary route's AD.
  • Verify that both next-hop addresses are directly connected to R1.
  • Ensure the default route is present and pointing to the correct next-hop.
A.Configure ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 192.0.2.2 and ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 198.51.100.2 150. The default route is already configured. No further changes needed.
B.Configure ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 192.0.2.2 and ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 198.51.100.2 150. Also, remove the existing default route and re-add it with a higher administrative distance.
C.Configure ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 192.0.2.2 150 and ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 198.51.100.2. The default route is already configured.
D.Configure ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 192.0.2.2 and ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 198.51.100.2. The default route is already configured. No administrative distance is needed because the router will automatically prefer the route with the lower metric.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
configure terminal
no ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 198.51.100.2 150
ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 198.51.100.2 150
end
show ip route 203.0.113.0

Why this answer

Option A because it correctly configures the primary static route to 203.0.113.0/24 via 192.0.2.2 (default AD 1) and the floating static route via 198.51.100.2 with AD 150, ensuring the primary route is preferred. The default route to 192.0.2.2 is already configured and does not need modification. Options B, C, and D are incorrect: B wrongly adds a higher AD to the default route, C inverts the ADs on the two routes, and D omits the required AD on the floating route, causing both routes to have equal AD and potential load balancing or conflict.

Exam trap

A common trap is confusing which route gets the higher administrative distance. Remember: the floating (backup) route gets the higher AD, so it is only used when the primary route fails. Also, do not modify the default route unless specified.

Always verify that the next-hop addresses are directly connected to avoid recursive routing issues.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The specific factual error is that the default route configuration is correct as given; there is no need to modify it. Changing the AD of the default route could cause routing issues.

C

The specific factual error is swapping the administrative distances: the primary route should have a lower AD than the floating route. Here, the primary route has AD 150 and the floating route has AD 1, causing the backup to be preferred.

D

The specific factual error is that static routes without an AD default to 1, so both routes would have equal AD. The floating route must have a higher AD (e.g., 150) to act as a backup.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think that the default route needs adjustment to avoid conflict with the floating static route, but the floating route has a higher AD and does not interfere.

C

Candidates might confuse which route should have the higher AD, thinking the floating route should have the default AD and the primary a higher one, but that is incorrect.

D

Candidates might think that the router automatically distinguishes between primary and backup routes, but without different AD values, both routes are considered equal.

201
Multi-Selectmedium

Which TWO statements about 802.1Q trunking, native VLANs, and inter-VLAN routing are correct? (Choose two.)

Select 2 answers
A.802.1Q trunking is a Cisco-proprietary protocol that uses a 4-byte tag to identify VLAN membership.
B.By default, frames belonging to the native VLAN are sent untagged across an 802.1Q trunk.
C.Inter-VLAN routing can be accomplished using a Layer 2 switch configured with VLAN access maps.
D.The native VLAN must be identical on both ends of an 802.1Q trunk to avoid native VLAN mismatch errors.
E.Switches strip the 802.1Q tag from all frames before forwarding them out of a trunk port.
AnswersB, D

On an 802.1Q trunk, the native VLAN is deliberately transmitted without any VLAN tag. The receiving switch assumes that any untagged frame arriving on the trunk belongs to its configured native VLAN, which is why the administrator must ensure the native VLAN matches on both ends. This untagged behavior permits interoperability with devices that do not understand 802.1Q tagging and is enforced by default.

Why this answer

By default, 802.1Q trunking treats the native VLAN (typically VLAN 1) as untagged. Frames in the native VLAN are sent without an 802.1Q tag, allowing interoperability with devices that do not understand trunking. This behavior is defined in IEEE 802.1Q and is essential for backward compatibility.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the misconception that all frames on a trunk are tagged, but the trap here is that the native VLAN is sent untagged by default, and candidates may incorrectly assume that inter-VLAN routing can be done with a Layer 2 switch alone.

Why the other options are wrong

A

802.1Q is an open IEEE standard. Cisco-proprietary trunking is Inter-Switch Link (ISL).

C

Layer 2 switches cannot route between VLANs. Inter-VLAN routing requires a Layer 3 device such as a router or a Layer 3 switch with SVIs.

E

Trunk ports forward tagged frames so the receiving switch can distinguish VLANs. Removing tags from all frames would defeat the purpose of trunking.

202
MCQhard

Refer to the exhibit. An administrator has configured NAT on router R1 to allow hosts on the 192.168.1.0/24 LAN to access the Internet. However, users report that they cannot reach external websites. The administrator runs the show ip nat translations command. What is the most likely reason for the problem?

A.The access list used for dynamic NAT does not match the LAN subnet.
B.The ip nat outside command is missing from the WAN interface.
C.The ip nat inside source static commands have incorrect IP addresses.
D.The ip nat inside command is missing from the LAN-facing interface.
AnswerD

The output reveals that only static NAT translations are active; no dynamic entries exist. For the router to process packets from the LAN under NAT, the interface connected to the LAN must be configured with ip nat inside. Its absence stops all dynamic address translation, leaving only the manually configured static entries.

Why this answer

The output of 'show ip nat translations' shows no translations, which indicates that NAT is not being applied to traffic from the LAN. The most common cause is that the 'ip nat inside' command is missing from the LAN-facing interface (e.g., GigabitEthernet0/0). Without this command, the router does not identify the interface as the inside NAT domain, so it never translates the source addresses of packets arriving from the 192.168.1.0/24 subnet.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the fact that NAT requires both 'ip nat inside' and 'ip nat outside' interface commands, and candidates mistakenly assume that configuring the ACL and NAT pool alone is sufficient for translation to occur.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Candidates think any absence of dynamic entries is due to ACL mismatch, overlooking the prerequisite that the inside interface must be configured with ip nat inside for NAT to function at all.

B

The presence of static NAT translations in the output indicates that the ip nat outside command is already applied on the WAN interface.

C

Candidates may focus on the static entries, but the symptom is missing dynamic translations; bad static mappings would not prevent dynamic translations from appearing.

203
PBQhard

You are connected to R1 via the console. The network operations center (NOC) has asked you to configure R1 as an NTP client of the NTP server at 192.0.2.10 (reachable via VLAN 100, SVI 192.168.1.1/24). They also need all system messages of level 'debug' (level 7) and higher forwarded to the syslog server at 203.0.113.50. The current configuration shows that NTP is not working (stratum 16) and syslog is only sending critical and higher messages. Fix both issues.

Network Topology
G0/010.0.0.1/30G0/010.0.0.2/30linkR2R1switchNTP serverSyslog server

Hints

  • Check the source IP of NTP packets; the server may require a specific source address.
  • NTP synchronization fails if the router does not have a route to the NTP server; verify connectivity.
  • The logging trap level controls which severity messages are sent; 'critical' only sends levels 0-2.
A.Configure 'ntp source Vlan100' and 'logging trap debugging'.
B.Configure 'ntp server 192.0.2.10' and 'logging trap 7'.
C.Configure 'ntp source Vlan100' and 'logging trap warnings'.
D.Configure 'ntp update-calendar' and 'logging trap informational'.
AnswerA
solution
! R1
ntp source Vlan100
logging trap debugging

Why this answer

The NTP client is not synchronizing because there is no source interface specified; the NTP packets may be sourced from an unexpected interface and the server may ignore them. The solution is to configure 'ntp source Vlan100' to ensure NTP packets use the correct source IP. Additionally, the syslog trap level is set to 'critical', which filters out messages with severity lower than critical (like warnings, errors, etc.).

The NOC requires all messages up to debug level; therefore, change the logging trap level to 'debugging' with 'logging trap debugging'.

Exam trap

Do not confuse the NTP server command with the source interface command. The server command specifies the server, but the source interface ensures the correct source IP. For syslog, remember that 'debugging' is the keyword for the lowest severity level; using 'warnings' or 'informational' will exclude debug messages.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The specific factual error: 'logging trap 7' is not a valid Cisco IOS command; the correct command uses the keyword 'debugging'. Also, the NTP server command alone does not fix the source interface issue.

C

The specific factual error: 'logging trap warnings' only sends messages with severity 0-4, missing severity 5-7 (notifications, informational, debug).

D

The specific factual error: 'ntp update-calendar' is not needed for NTP synchronization; the source interface is the key missing piece. 'logging trap informational' does not include debug messages.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think adding the NTP server command again will fix synchronization, or they may incorrectly use the numeric severity level without the keyword.

C

Candidates may confuse 'warnings' with a higher severity level, not realizing that debug is the lowest severity and requires the 'debugging' keyword.

D

Candidates may think updating the calendar is necessary for NTP to work, or they may believe informational is the lowest level, not realizing debug is lower.

204
Drag & Dropmedium

Drag and drop the following steps into the correct order to describe the encapsulation of data as it passes down the TCP/IP stack for transmission.

Drag steps to the numbered slots on the right, or tap a step then tap a slot.

Steps
Order
1Step 1
2Step 2
3Step 3
4Step 4
5Step 5

Why this order

The encapsulation process starts with the application layer generating data. The transport layer packages data into segments (TCP) or datagrams (UDP). The network layer adds an IP header, creating a packet.

The data link layer adds a frame header and trailer (frame). Finally, the physical layer converts the frame into bits for transmission.

205
PBQhard

You are troubleshooting connectivity from R1 to the 203.0.113.0/24 network. R1 is a multilayer switch running routed ports. Currently, R1 has two paths to reach that network: one via R2 (192.0.2.2) and one via R3 (198.51.100.2). The path via R2 is preferred, but after a link failure between R1 and R2, traffic should automatically fail over to the R3 path. However, after the failure, traffic is still being sent to R2. Examine the routing table and configuration, then fix the issue so that the floating static route takes over correctly when the primary route is lost.

Hints

  • The primary static route does not have an exit interface specified, so it relies on recursive lookup. When the next-hop becomes unreachable, the route may still be present if there is another route to the next-hop.
  • Check if the static route is using the 'permanent' keyword (not shown in config, but possible).
  • To make the route interface-dependent, specify the exit interface in the static route command.
A.Replace the primary static route with one that uses an exit interface: ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 GigabitEthernet1/0/1 192.0.2.2
B.Increase the administrative distance of the floating static route to 255
C.Add the permanent keyword to the floating static route
D.Change the administrative distance of the primary static route to 200 and the floating static route to 1
AnswerA
solution
! R1
no ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 192.0.2.2
ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 GigabitEthernet1/0/1 192.0.2.2

Why this answer

The issue is that the primary static route to 203.0.113.0/24 via 192.0.2.2 has an administrative distance of 1 (default), and the backup floating static route via 198.51.100.2 has an AD of 200. When the next-hop interface (Gi1/0/1) goes down, the route via 192.0.2.2 should be removed from the routing table because its next-hop is unreachable. However, the show output indicates that the route remains, which suggests that the static route is configured with the 'permanent' keyword or that the next-hop is still considered reachable via some other mechanism (e.g., a recursive lookup to a still-active route).

In this case, the most common fix is to add the 'track' option or to remove the static route and re-add it without the 'permanent' keyword, or to ensure that the static route uses an interface instead of just an IP address. The correct solution is to replace the primary static route with one that uses an exit interface, so that the route is automatically removed when the interface goes down. For example: 'ip route 203.0.113.0 255.255.255.0 GigabitEthernet1/0/1 192.0.2.2'.

This causes the route to be directly dependent on the interface state.

Exam trap

Be careful: static routes with only a next-hop IP address may remain in the routing table if the next-hop is still reachable via a recursive route. Always consider using an exit interface or a track object to ensure proper failover. Also, the 'permanent' keyword prevents route removal even if the next-hop is unreachable.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The specific factual error: An administrative distance of 255 is reserved for routes that are not considered valid; they are not installed in the routing table.

C

The specific factual error: The permanent keyword forces the route to stay in the routing table regardless of reachability, which is the opposite of what is needed.

D

The specific factual error: The AD values determine route preference; swapping them changes which route is preferred but does not address the removal of the route when the next-hop is unreachable.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think that increasing the AD further ensures the backup route is only used when the primary is gone, but 255 makes it unusable.

C

Candidates may confuse 'permanent' with 'persistent' or think it ensures the route is always available, but it actually prevents failover.

D

Candidates might think that adjusting AD is the only way to control route selection, but they overlook the need for the route to be removed when the interface goes down.

206
MCQhard

A host address is 192.168.22.145/28. Which subnet contains that host?

A.192.168.22.128/28
B.192.168.22.144/28
C.192.168.22.160/28
D.192.168.22.148/28
AnswerB

A /28 prefix length uses subnet mask 255.255.255.240, which creates blocks of 16 addresses. Dividing the fourth octet 145 by 16 gives 9.0625, so the network boundary is 9 × 16 = 144. Therefore, the subnet containing 192.168.22.145 is 192.168.22.144/28, which spans usable hosts .145 through .158 and has a broadcast address of .159. This matches the host being the first usable address in that range.

Why this answer

A /28 prefix creates address blocks of 16. In practical terms, the fourth-octet ranges are 0–15, 16–31, 32–47, and so on. Because 145 falls inside the 144–159 range, the network address of the containing subnet is 192.168.22.144/28.

This type of question checks whether you can move from prefix length to block size and then place a host into the correct interval. The common mistake is choosing a nearby familiar number instead of calculating the actual block boundary.

Exam trap

Avoid assuming a host belongs to a subnet without calculating the exact range. Always verify the block size and boundaries.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The subnet 192.168.22.128/28 includes addresses 192.168.22.128 to 192.168.22.143. The host address 192.168.22.145 is outside this range, so it does not belong to this subnet.

C

The subnet 192.168.22.160/28 includes addresses 192.168.22.160 to 192.168.22.175. The host address 192.168.22.145 is below this range, so it cannot be in this subnet.

D

The subnet 192.168.22.148/28 is not a valid subnet because the network address must be a multiple of the subnet size (16). Valid network addresses for /28 are 0, 16, 32, 48, etc. 148 is not a multiple of 16, so this is not a valid subnet.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question asked for the subnet containing the address 192.168.22.128/28, then option A would be correct, as it directly represents the subnet range from 192.168.22.128 to 192.168.22.143.

C

If the question asked for the subnet that contains a host address of 192.168.22.160 with a subnet mask of /28, then option C would be the correct answer. This scenario would involve identifying the subnet for a host at the upper end of the range.

D

If the question were to ask for a specific host address within the subnet 192.168.22.144/28, then option D (192.168.22.148/28) would be correct as it is a valid host address within that subnet.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might mistakenly think that any address starting with 192.168.22.1xx could be in the .128 subnet, not realizing that the /28 mask creates a block of 16 addresses ending at .143.

C

A student might confuse the subnet boundaries and think that .145 is close to .160, or they might incorrectly calculate the subnet size and assume .145 falls into the next subnet.

D

Students might think that any address can be a network address, or they might incorrectly calculate the subnet boundaries and assume .148 is a valid starting point because it is close to .145.

207
MCQhard

A host is configured with 10.10.10.130/25. What is the network address of its subnet?

A.10.10.10.0
B.10.10.10.64
C.10.10.10.128
D.10.10.10.255
AnswerC

A /25 mask (255.255.255.128) partitions the last octet into two equal blocks of 128 addresses: .0–.127 and .128–.255. The address 10.10.10.130 falls in the upper block because its last octet binary begins with a 1 (10000010). Therefore, the network address is the first address of that block, 10.10.10.128, and this is the correct answer.

Why this answer

A /25 divides the address space into two blocks of 128 addresses. In plain language, the ranges are 0–127 and 128–255. Since the host ends in 130, it belongs to the 128–255 half. That means the network address is 10.10.10.128.

This is a common subnet-boundary question because it tests whether you can map a host address into the correct prefix block quickly and confidently.

Exam trap

Be careful not to confuse the subnet mask with /24 or mistake the broadcast address for the network address.

Why the other options are wrong

A

10.10.10.0 is the network address of the 10.10.10.0/25 subnet (range 0-127), but the host IP 10.10.10.130 is not in that range. The /25 mask creates two subnets: 10.10.10.0/25 and 10.10.10.128/25, and .130 belongs to the latter.

B

10.10.10.64 is not a valid network address for any /25 subnet derived from 10.10.10.0/24. A /25 subnet has a block size of 128, so the network addresses are multiples of 128: 0 and 128. 64 is a multiple of 64, which would be a /26 boundary, not /25.

D

10.10.10.255 is the broadcast address for the 10.10.10.128/25 subnet, not the network address. The broadcast address is the last address in the subnet (all host bits set to 1), while the network address is the first address (all host bits set to 0).

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question asked for the network address of a host configured with 10.10.10.130/24, then 10.10.10.0 would be the correct answer, as it represents the network address for that subnet mask.

B

If the question asked for the first usable IP address of the subnet 10.10.10.64/26, then option B would be correct, as 10.10.10.64 would be the network address for that subnet.

D

If the question asked for the broadcast address of the subnet 10.10.10.128/25, then 10.10.10.255 would be the correct answer, as it is the last address in that subnet range.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might assume that any IP starting with 10.10.10.x belongs to the 10.10.10.0 network, forgetting that the subnet mask determines the boundary. The .0 address is a common network address for /24, but with /25, the network address changes.

B

Students often confuse subnet boundaries for different prefix lengths. For example, a /26 has boundaries at multiples of 64, so 10.10.10.64 is a valid network for /26. This option tempts those who misapply the /26 boundary to a /25 question.

D

Students often confuse the broadcast address with the network address because both are special addresses in a subnet. The .255 address is a common broadcast address for /24 subnets, but for a /25, the broadcast is 10.10.10.255 only if the subnet is 10.10.10.0/25; here the subnet is 10.10.10.128/25.

208
MCQmedium

What is a northbound API in a controller-based network architecture?

A.An interface used by the controller to program forwarding tables on switches
B.An interface used by applications to communicate with the controller
C.A dedicated out-of-band management port on the controller
D.A wireless uplink between access points and the controller
AnswerB

Correct. A northbound API is the programmatic interface that applications use to communicate with the controller, allowing them to request network policies, retrieve telemetry, or adjust network behavior without dealing with underlying device specifics. This abstraction is what makes controller-based architectures agile for software-defined networking.

Why this answer

Northbound APIs allow external applications, dashboards, and automation tools to interact with the controller. Southbound APIs are used by the controller to communicate with the network devices it manages.

Exam trap

Confusing northbound and southbound APIs is a common pitfall. Northbound APIs enable applications to communicate with the controller, while southbound APIs allow the controller to program network devices like switches and routers. Selecting an option that describes device programming or physical ports misses the architectural directionality of these APIs.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Incorrect because programming forwarding tables on switches is a southbound API function, not northbound.

C

Incorrect because a physical management port does not define API direction and is unrelated to northbound or southbound APIs.

D

Incorrect because wireless uplinks are physical connections and do not represent API communication directions.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question were to ask about the role of a southbound API in a controller-based network architecture, then option A would be correct, as it would accurately describe the interface used for programming forwarding tables on switches.

C

If the question were to ask about the components of a controller's architecture specifically related to management interfaces or ports, then option C could be correct. For example, a question might ask, 'What is the purpose of the dedicated out-of-band management port on a controller?'

D

If the exam question asked about the types of connections used in a controller-based network architecture, specifically focusing on physical connections or uplink methods, then option D could be correct. For example, a question might ask, 'What type of connection facilitates communication between access points and the controller in a wireless network?'

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often confuse the direction of APIs in SDN architectures. The term 'northbound' might be misinterpreted as 'toward the network,' but it actually refers to communication from the controller to higher-level applications.

C

The term 'northbound' might be associated with 'management' or 'control,' leading some to think it refers to a management port. However, northbound APIs are software interfaces, not hardware ports.

D

The word 'uplink' might suggest a direction 'up' to the controller, similar to 'northbound.' However, northbound APIs are about control and management communication, not data forwarding.

209
MCQhard

A client can join a corporate SSID and authenticate successfully, but it consistently loses connectivity when moving between floors. Which area is most strongly suggested for deeper investigation?

A.Roaming and RF behavior between AP coverage areas
B.Whether the SSID is visible at all
C.Whether the host has a BGP autonomous system number
D.Whether the switch uses a smaller wildcard mask
AnswerA

The key clue is that the client joins and authenticates successfully at the start, but the failure occurs during movement—this is classic roaming behavior. In 802.11 wireless, roaming requires the client to perform reassociation with a new AP, and issues like coverage gaps, channel overlap, neighbor AP signal strength, or lack of 802.11r fast transition can cause traffic loss. Because the problem manifests only after moving between AP coverage areas, roaming and RF behavior are the correct focus.

Why this answer

The strongest area for deeper investigation is wireless mobility and RF behavior between the AP coverage areas involved. In practical terms, the client can already authenticate and use the WLAN initially, so the issue is more likely tied to movement, signal transition, channel behavior, or roaming-related operation rather than basic SSID existence or initial authentication alone.

This is a mobility-troubleshooting question, not a simple association problem.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is assuming that connectivity loss during movement is caused by SSID visibility or initial authentication failure. Since the client can join and authenticate successfully, the problem is not with the SSID broadcast or basic network access. Another tempting mistake is to consider unrelated network configurations such as BGP autonomous system numbers or ACL wildcard masks, which do not affect wireless roaming.

The key is to focus on roaming and RF behavior between AP coverage areas, as these directly impact client mobility and session continuity in a wireless environment.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Incorrect because the client already successfully joins and authenticates to the SSID, so SSID visibility is not the issue.

C

Incorrect because BGP autonomous system numbers relate to routing protocols and have no impact on wireless client roaming or connectivity.

D

Incorrect because ACL wildcard masks affect packet filtering rules and do not influence wireless roaming or client mobility between access points.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a different scenario where a user reports being unable to connect to a corporate SSID at all, the question could ask about potential causes for this issue. In that case, investigating whether the SSID is visible would be crucial to determine if the client can see and attempt to connect.

C

In a question focused on routing protocols and their configuration in a multi-site corporate environment, a scenario might ask about the importance of BGP in ensuring optimal routing paths. Here, understanding the role of autonomous system numbers would be crucial for correct routing decisions.

D

If the exam question were focused on routing issues within a network where a switch's configuration impacts the routing of traffic, then investigating the use of a smaller wildcard mask could be relevant. For example, if the question involved troubleshooting routing issues in a multi-VLAN environment, this option could be correct.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students might think that if the client loses connectivity, the SSID might be hidden or not broadcasting on other floors, but the client's successful initial join indicates the SSID is visible at least in the starting area.

C

A test-taker might confuse BGP with other protocols or think that any connectivity issue could be related to routing, but BGP is not involved in wireless client roaming.

D

Students might associate wildcard masks with network troubleshooting or think that a misconfigured ACL could cause connectivity loss, but the specific symptom of losing connectivity when moving floors points to RF/roaming issues, not ACLs.

210
Multi-Selectmedium

Which three of the following are characteristics of DHCP snooping? (Choose three.)

Select 3 answers
.It filters untrusted DHCP messages on trusted ports.
.It builds and maintains a DHCP snooping binding database.
.It prevents DHCP starvation attacks by rate-limiting DHCP messages.
.It allows DHCP server messages from untrusted ports if the source MAC matches.
.It can validate DHCP client MAC addresses against the source MAC in the Ethernet frame.
.It automatically enables IP source guard when configured globally.

Why this answer

DHCP snooping is a security feature that filters untrusted DHCP messages and builds a DHCP snooping binding database to track valid IP-to-MAC address assignments. It prevents DHCP starvation attacks by rate-limiting DHCP messages on untrusted ports, and it validates DHCP client MAC addresses against the source MAC in the Ethernet frame to prevent MAC spoofing. These three functions directly correspond to the correct answer options.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction between trusted and untrusted ports, leading candidates to incorrectly assume that DHCP snooping filters messages on trusted ports or allows server messages from untrusted ports under certain conditions.

211
Multi-Selectmedium

Which three of the following are key benefits of integrating AI into network operations? (Choose three.)

Select 3 answers
.Automated detection and correlation of anomalies across the network
.Real-time traffic classification and policy enforcement using machine learning models
.Predictive maintenance by analyzing historical performance data to forecast failures
.Complete elimination of the need for human network administrators
.Guaranteed 100% network uptime through self-healing algorithms
.Automatic reconfiguration of physical cabling without manual intervention

Why this answer

The three correct answers highlight practical AI benefits: anomaly detection correlates diverse telemetry (NetFlow, SNMP) to identify issues faster; real-time traffic classification uses ML models for dynamic policy enforcement without manual rule updates; predictive maintenance analyzes historical data to forecast failures, enabling proactive intervention. The wrong options are unrealistic: AI cannot eliminate all human administrators (complex troubleshooting still needs humans), cannot guarantee 100% uptime (failures still occur), and cannot automatically reconfigure physical cabling (that requires physical access).

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction between AI as an augmentation tool versus a replacement for human administrators, and the trap here is assuming AI can guarantee 100% uptime or eliminate all manual tasks, which contradicts real-world network reliability principles.

212
MCQhard

A network administrator configured dynamic NAT on a Cisco router to allow internal hosts to access the internet. After the configuration, users report that they can access some websites but not others. The administrator checks the router and discovers that the NAT translation table is full, and new connection attempts are being dropped. What is the most likely cause of this issue?

A.The inside local addresses are not properly defined in the access list.
B.The NAT pool is exhausted; configure PAT to allow multiple hosts to share a single public IP.
C.The outside interface is not configured with the ip nat outside command.
D.The inside interface is not configured with the ip nat inside command.
AnswerB

The NAT pool contains only 10 inside-global addresses, so a one-to-one dynamic NAT translation consumes an entire public IP for each internal host. Once all 10 addresses are in use, additional translations fail until an entry ages out or is cleared. Configuring PAT (with the overload keyword, e.g., ip nat inside source list 1 pool MY-POOL overload) lets many internal hosts share a single public IP by multiplexing on unique Layer 4 port numbers, eliminating pool exhaustion.

Why this answer

When the NAT pool is exhausted, no new translations can be created, so only hosts that already have established translations can continue to communicate, causing intermittent connectivity. A full NAT table means the pool of public IP addresses is completely allocated, preventing new sessions. Implementing PAT allows multiple inside hosts to share a single public IP by multiplexing port numbers, resolving the pool exhaustion.

Exam trap

Cisco often tests the distinction between dynamic NAT (one-to-one pool) and PAT (many-to-one), leading candidates to overlook pool exhaustion when symptoms show partial connectivity rather than total failure.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The access list is used to define which inside local addresses are eligible for NAT. If the access list were misconfigured, the router would not create translations for those hosts. However, the scenario states that translations are present, indicating that the access list is correctly matching the internal hosts.

C

If the outside interface were missing the 'ip nat outside' command, the router would not perform NAT on outbound traffic at all, resulting in no translations being created. Since translations are present, this command is correctly configured.

D

Similar to option C, if the inside interface were missing the 'ip nat inside' command, no translations would be created. The presence of translations indicates that the inside interface is correctly configured.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often confuse the role of the access list in NAT with other ACL functions. They might think that an incomplete translation is due to the ACL not permitting certain traffic, but the presence of translations shows the ACL is working.

C

Students may think that an incomplete translation could be due to a missing 'ip nat outside' command, but that would prevent any translation from being created, not just incomplete ones.

D

Students might incorrectly attribute incomplete translations to a missing 'ip nat inside' command, but that would cause a complete failure of NAT, not partial functionality.

213
MCQmedium

A router learns 10.10.10.0/24 from OSPF and EIGRP at the same time. OSPF reports a metric of 20, and EIGRP reports a metric of 30720. Which route is installed in the routing table by default?

A.The OSPF route, because 20 is lower than 30720
B.The EIGRP route, because its administrative distance is lower
C.Both routes, because they point to the same prefix
D.Neither route, because the metrics are not comparable
AnswerB

Routers prioritise routes for the same destination using administrative distance (AD) before considering protocol metrics. EIGRP has a default administrative distance of 90, which is lower than OSPF's default of 110. Consequently, even though OSPF reports a numerically lower metric, the router will install the EIGRP route for 10.10.10.0/24 into its routing table because its superior administrative distance takes precedence.

Why this answer

When the same prefix is learned from different routing protocols, the router compares administrative distance first. EIGRP internal routes use AD 90, while OSPF uses AD 110, so the EIGRP route is preferred.

Exam trap

Remember, administrative distance is the first criterion for route selection between different protocols, not the metric.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Metrics from different routing protocols are not comparable because each protocol uses its own metric calculation (e.g., OSPF uses cost based on bandwidth, EIGRP uses composite metric based on bandwidth and delay). The router uses administrative distance to choose between routes from different protocols, not metric values.

C

A router installs only the best route to a destination in the routing table, unless equal-cost load balancing is configured. Since OSPF and EIGRP have different administrative distances, only the route with the lower AD is installed. Both routes cannot be installed simultaneously for the same prefix.

D

The router does compare routes from different protocols using administrative distance, not metrics. Since the metrics are from different protocols, they are not directly comparable, but the router still selects one route based on AD. Therefore, one route will be installed.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different scenario where the question specifies that both OSPF and EIGRP routes have the same administrative distance, and the metrics are the only factor considered, then the OSPF route would be chosen due to its lower metric of 20 compared to EIGRP's 30720.

C

In a different scenario where the question states that the router is configured to support equal-cost multi-path (ECMP) routing, both OSPF and EIGRP routes could be installed in the routing table, allowing for load balancing across the same prefix.

D

In a scenario where a question states that both OSPF and EIGRP routes are being considered but specifies that the routing protocols are configured to ignore metrics due to a policy or misconfiguration, then it could be correct to say neither route is installed because the metrics are not comparable.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students often mistakenly think that the route with the lower metric is always preferred, regardless of protocol. Since 20 is much smaller than 30720, it seems logical to choose the OSPF route, but this ignores the administrative distance tie-breaking rule.

C

Students may think that if two routes point to the same network, they can both be used for load balancing. However, load balancing requires equal metrics from the same routing protocol or equal administrative distances, which is not the case here.

D

The statement that metrics are not comparable is true, but it leads to the incorrect conclusion that no route is selected. Students may forget that administrative distance is the tie-breaker when metrics are incomparable.

214
MCQmedium

A switchport is configured as an access port for VLAN 20, but users connected to it cannot reach the default gateway. The switch shows the interface as up/up. Which switch misconfiguration is the most likely cause?

A.The access port is missing a speed command
B.VLAN 20 has not been created on the switch
C.The switch has not enabled VTP transparent mode
D.The port should use DTP desirable mode
AnswerB

When a switchport is configured as an access port in a VLAN that does not exist in the switch's VLAN database, the port will not become active in that VLAN. The switch will not forward traffic for the nonexistent VLAN; the port typically remains in a down or inactive state until the VLAN is created. Creating the VLAN with 'vlan 20' in global configuration mode and assigning it a name is required before the access port can pass traffic for VLAN 20. Even though the port configuration may be accepted, the port will not operate correctly until the VLAN exists.

Why this answer

If the access port is assigned to VLAN 20 but VLAN 20 does not exist in the VLAN database, traffic is not placed into a usable VLAN and hosts lose connectivity. The port can still appear physically up while forwarding fails at Layer 2.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is assuming that an interface showing up/up means the port is fully functional and correctly forwarding traffic. Candidates may overlook the necessity of creating the VLAN in the switch’s VLAN database. Without VLAN 20 existing, the switch cannot forward traffic for that VLAN, even though the physical link is active.

This leads to confusion because the interface status does not reflect VLAN misconfiguration, causing users to lose connectivity to the default gateway despite the port appearing operational.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The absence of a speed command on the access port does not prevent VLAN forwarding or connectivity to the default gateway. Speed settings affect physical link parameters but not VLAN membership or Layer 2 forwarding.

C

VTP transparent mode controls VLAN propagation between switches but does not affect whether a VLAN exists locally. Missing VLANs must be created manually regardless of VTP mode.

D

DTP desirable mode is used to negotiate trunk links and is irrelevant for access ports, which do not trunk and only carry untagged frames for a single VLAN.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different scenario, if a question specified that a switchport is operational but experiencing performance issues or intermittent connectivity, and the configuration lacks a speed command, then this option could be correct as speed mismatches can cause such problems.

C

In a scenario where a question asks about VLAN propagation issues in a network using VTP, and the context specifies that VLANs must be created on a VTP server for clients to access them, this option would be correct if the switch was not configured to propagate VLAN information properly.

D

In a scenario where the question specifies that the switchport is intended to be a trunk port and needs to negotiate trunking with a connected device, selecting D would be correct if the port was incorrectly set to access mode instead of trunk mode using DTP.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might think that a missing speed command could cause connectivity issues, but speed mismatches typically cause the interface to be down/down, not up/up. Since the interface is up/up, speed is not the issue.

C

Students may confuse VTP transparent mode with the requirement for VLANs to be propagated via VTP. However, in a network without VTP or with VTP transparent mode, VLANs must be created manually. The absence of VTP transparent mode does not prevent VLAN creation.

D

Students might think that DTP desirable helps with VLAN negotiation, but it is for trunking, not access VLAN assignment. The correct configuration for an access port is to set it to access mode, not to use DTP.

215
Drag & Dropmedium

Drag and drop the following steps into the correct order to isolate CRC errors, duplex mismatches, and flapping on a Cisco IOS-XE interface.

Drag steps to the numbered slots on the right, or tap a step then tap a slot.

Steps
Order
1Step 1
2Step 2
3Step 3
4Step 4

Why this order

First enter configuration mode, then enable debugs to capture errors, monitor logs, analyze the data, and finally apply fixes and verify.

Exam trap

Do not confuse the order of enabling debugs and monitoring logs. Debuffs must be enabled before you can monitor the debug output. Also, configuration mode is typically entered first to set up logging parameters or debug conditions.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might think debugging is the first step, but configuration mode is needed to enable debugs properly.

C

Candidates might think monitoring logs is the first step, but debugs must be enabled first to generate the relevant log entries.

D

Candidates might think monitoring logs is a passive step that can be done anytime, but without debugs, critical error details may be missing.

216
PBQmedium

You are connected to R1 via the console. R1 connects two networks: GigabitEthernet0/0 (192.168.1.1/24) and GigabitEthernet0/1 (192.168.2.1/24). Create an extended ACL named BLOCK_HTTP that denies HTTP traffic (tcp port 80) from the 192.168.1.0/24 network to the 192.168.2.0/24 network, but permits all other IP traffic. Apply this ACL inbound on GigabitEthernet0/0.

Network Topology
G0/0192.168.1.1/24G0/1192.168.2.1/24HostsLAN AR1LAN BWeb servers

Hints

  • Use the 'ip access-list extended' command to create a named ACL.
  • The deny statement must specify source, destination, and protocol.
  • Apply the ACL to the interface where traffic enters.
A.ip access-list extended BLOCK_HTTP deny tcp 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 eq 80 permit ip any any interface GigabitEthernet0/0 ip access-group BLOCK_HTTP in
B.ip access-list extended BLOCK_HTTP deny tcp 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 eq 80 permit ip any any interface GigabitEthernet0/1 ip access-group BLOCK_HTTP in
C.ip access-list extended BLOCK_HTTP deny tcp 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 eq 80 permit ip any any interface GigabitEthernet0/0 ip access-group BLOCK_HTTP out
D.ip access-list extended BLOCK_HTTP deny tcp 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 eq 80 permit ip any any interface GigabitEthernet0/0 ip access-group BLOCK_HTTP in interface GigabitEthernet0/1 ip access-group BLOCK_HTTP in
AnswerA
solution
! R1
ip access-list extended BLOCK_HTTP
deny tcp 192.168.1.0 0.0.0.255 192.168.2.0 0.0.0.255 eq 80
permit ip any any
interface GigabitEthernet0/0
ip access-group BLOCK_HTTP in

Why this answer

The named extended ACL BLOCK_HTTP denies TCP port 80 from 192.168.1.0/24 to 192.168.2.0/24, then permits all other traffic. Applying it inbound on G0/0 filters traffic from LAN A before routing.

Exam trap

Pay close attention to the interface and direction specified in the question. Inbound ACLs filter traffic entering the interface, while outbound ACLs filter traffic leaving. Also, ensure the ACL is applied only on the required interface.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The ACL is applied on the wrong interface; it should be applied inbound on G0/0, not G0/1.

C

The ACL is applied in the wrong direction; it should be inbound, not outbound.

D

The ACL is applied on an extra interface (G0/1) that is not required, which may block legitimate traffic.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Candidates might confuse the direction or interface, thinking that applying the ACL on the destination interface is equivalent, but inbound on the source interface is more efficient and matches the requirement.

C

Candidates might think outbound on the source interface is equivalent to inbound, but outbound filters traffic leaving the interface, which is after routing decisions are made.

D

Candidates might think applying the ACL on both interfaces provides better security, but it is redundant and can cause issues.

217
MCQhard

R1 has the following routes installed: O 10.10.10.0/24 via 192.0.2.2 S 10.10.10.128/25 via 198.51.100.2 S* 0.0.0.0/0 via 203.0.113.1 A packet destined for 10.10.10.200 arrives at R1. Which route is used?

A.The OSPF route to 10.10.10.0/24 via 192.0.2.2
B.The static route to 10.10.10.128/25 via 198.51.100.2
C.The default route via 203.0.113.1
D.The packet is dropped because OSPF routes cannot overlap with static routes.
AnswerB

Routers prioritise routes based on the longest prefix match principle. For the destination 10.10.10.200, all three listed routes are potential matches. However, the static route to 10.10.10.128/25 offers a 25-bit prefix, which is longer and therefore more specific than the 24-bit prefix of 10.10.10.0/24 or the 0-bit prefix of the default route. This ensures the packet is forwarded via 198.51.100.2, satisfying the requirement for the most precise route.

Why this answer

Routers forward using longest prefix match first. Even though the OSPF /24 exists, the static /25 is more specific and covers 10.10.10.200, so the packet is sent via 198.51.100.2. The default route is used only when nothing more specific matches.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is assuming that the router will always prefer OSPF routes over static routes because OSPF is a dynamic routing protocol. Candidates may also mistakenly believe that overlapping routes are invalid or cause routing conflicts. In reality, Cisco routers allow overlapping routes and use the longest prefix match rule first, regardless of the routing protocol or administrative distance.

This leads to confusion when a static route with a longer prefix exists alongside an OSPF route with a shorter prefix. Misunderstanding this can cause incorrect answers about which route will be used for forwarding packets.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The OSPF route to 10.10.10.0/24 matches the destination IP but has a shorter prefix length (/24) than the static route (/25). Since longest prefix match is the primary rule, this route is not used.

C

The default route 0.0.0.0/0 is the least specific and is only used when no other route matches the destination IP. Since more specific routes exist, the default route is not selected.

D

It is incorrect that packets are dropped due to overlapping routes. Cisco routers allow overlapping static and OSPF routes and forward packets based on the most specific prefix match, so the packet is not dropped.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question stated that the packet was destined for an IP address within the 10.10.10.0/24 subnet, such as 10.10.10.50, then the OSPF route would be the correct answer as it matches the destination IP.

C

This option would be correct if the question specified that there were no more specific routes available for the destination address, making the default route the only viable option for routing the packet.

D

In a scenario where the question specifies that OSPF routes are configured to prevent overlapping with static routes, and the routing table is set to drop packets if such overlap occurs, this option would be correct.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students may think that OSPF routes are preferred over static routes due to administrative distance, but in this case the static route has a longer prefix, which takes precedence regardless of routing protocol.

C

Students may assume that a default route is always used as a last resort, but they forget that the longest prefix match rule overrides the default route when a more specific match exists.

D

Some students might think that overlapping routes cause conflicts or errors, but routers handle overlapping prefixes by using the longest prefix match. The statement about OSPF and static routes being incompatible is incorrect.

218
MCQhard

A security team wants device administrators to log in with individual named accounts instead of sharing one generic admin account. Which security objective does that most directly improve?

A.Accountability for administrative actions
B.Automatic VLAN assignment for management traffic
C.Route summarization efficiency
D.Wireless roaming performance
AnswerA

Creating individual accounts for device administrators directly supports accountability because each admin can be uniquely identified in audit logs. Commands, configuration changes, and login events get attributed to a specific user, making it possible to hold that individual responsible. This also enables non-repudiation and assists in forensic investigations after a security incident.

Why this answer

It most directly improves accountability. In practical terms, when each administrator has an individual account, the organization can tie actions to specific people rather than to one shared identity. That makes investigation, auditing, and operational review much more meaningful.

This also supports better access-control hygiene overall, but the clearest direct benefit is being able to identify who actually performed an administrative action.

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is selecting options unrelated to user identity and accountability, such as VLAN assignment or routing efficiency, because they sound like valid network improvements. However, these options do not address the core security goal of tracking who performed administrative actions. Candidates might also confuse accountability with performance or configuration optimization objectives, which are important but distinct.

The key is to focus on the security principle that individual named accounts enable precise attribution of actions, which shared accounts cannot provide. This distinction is critical for Cisco’s security fundamentals domain and the CCNA exam.

Why the other options are wrong

B

Incorrect because automatic VLAN assignment for management traffic is unrelated to user identity or accountability; it concerns network segmentation, not administrative tracking.

C

Incorrect because route summarization efficiency deals with optimizing routing tables and has no connection to user account management or security accountability.

D

Incorrect because wireless roaming performance relates to client mobility and access point behavior, which does not involve administrative account design or accountability.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

If the exam question asked about improving network management efficiency or optimizing traffic for management devices, then automatic VLAN assignment could be the correct answer, as it directly relates to managing network resources effectively.

C

In a question asking about the benefits of route summarization in a network design scenario, where multiple subnets are being aggregated to improve routing efficiency, this option would be correct. For example, a question might ask how to minimize routing table size in a large enterprise network.

D

In a question focused on optimizing wireless networks, if it asked about improving user experience during mobility across multiple access points, then enhancing wireless roaming performance could be the correct answer, especially in a scenario involving a large campus network.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students might confuse the concept of individual accounts with user-based VLAN assignment in 802.1X, where individual users are assigned to specific VLANs. However, the question is about administrative login accounts, not end-user network access.

C

A test-taker might think that 'summarization' relates to logging or summarizing actions, but in networking, summarization specifically refers to route aggregation, not audit logs.

D

Students might associate 'individual accounts' with 'individual user profiles' in wireless networks, but the question is about device administrators, not wireless clients. The context is administrative access, not wireless performance.

219
MCQhard

A router has a static default route with administrative distance 250 and also learns a default route through OSPF. What is the main design purpose of the static default route?

A.To serve as a backup default route if the OSPF default is lost.
B.To override the OSPF default route immediately.
C.To make the router ignore all default routes.
D.To turn the default route into a host route.
AnswerA

This is a classic floating static route configuration. By setting the administrative distance to 250, the static default route is less preferred than the OSPF default (AD 110), so it remains in the background. If OSPF fails and its default route is withdrawn from the routing table, the router then installs the static backup, ensuring continued default connectivity.

Why this answer

The main purpose is to act as a backup route of last resort if the OSPF-learned default route disappears. In practical terms, the very high administrative distance keeps the static default out of the active table while the OSPF default is available. It remains in reserve only for failure conditions.

This is a classic floating-static-default design. It provides resilience without replacing the primary dynamic path.

Exam trap

A common exam trap is assuming that a static default route with a high administrative distance will override the OSPF default route immediately. Candidates might think the static route takes precedence because it is manually configured, but in reality, the administrative distance value controls route preference. Since 250 is much higher than OSPF’s 110, the static route remains inactive while OSPF’s route is available.

This misunderstanding can lead to incorrect answers about route selection and failover behavior in Cisco routing exams.

Why the other options are wrong

B

This option is incorrect because a static route with an administrative distance of 250 does not override the OSPF default route, which has a lower AD of 110. The high AD prevents immediate override.

C

This option is incorrect because the static default route does not cause the router to ignore all default routes. Instead, it remains as a backup and only becomes active if the OSPF route disappears.

D

This option is incorrect because administrative distance does not change the route prefix or convert a default route into a host route. It only influences route preference and selection.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a different scenario where a static default route has an administrative distance lower than that of OSPF, a question might ask about the purpose of the static route in a network where immediate route preference is required. In that case, the static route would indeed override the OSPF default route.

C

In a different question scenario where a router is configured to ignore all dynamic routes and only use static routes, a static default route with an administrative distance of 250 could be used to signify that no default routes should be accepted, effectively ignoring them.

D

In a question where the context involves configuring a router to explicitly define a route to a specific host IP address, a static route could be described as turning a default route into a host route if the default route is redefined to point to a specific host rather than a network.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students may confuse administrative distance with metric or assume that a static route always takes precedence over dynamic routes, forgetting that a higher AD means lower preference.

C

A test-taker might think that a high AD causes the route to be ignored entirely, but in reality, the route is present in the configuration and becomes active only when the preferred route is removed.

D

Some students may mistakenly believe that changing AD can alter the subnet mask or convert a network route into a host route, which is incorrect.

220
MCQmedium

An administrator wants an access-layer interface to shut down immediately if another switch is connected accidentally. Which feature best meets that requirement?

A.Root Guard
B.PortFast
C.BPDU Guard
D.Loop Guard
AnswerC

BPDU Guard is the correct feature because it is specifically configured on access ports to protect the spanning-tree topology from unauthorized devices. When a port with BPDU Guard enabled receives any BPDU, it immediately puts the interface into an err-disabled state, effectively shutting it down. This behavior matches the administrator's goal of having the access layer interface shut down upon unexpected BPDU reception.

Why this answer

BPDU Guard is designed for edge ports. If the port receives a BPDU, the switch treats that as a sign that another switch has been connected and places the interface into an err-disabled state to protect the spanning-tree topology.

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is selecting Root Guard or Loop Guard instead of BPDU Guard. Root Guard only blocks a port from becoming a root port but does not disable the port immediately upon receiving BPDUs. Loop Guard protects against unidirectional link failures by preventing a port from transitioning to forwarding when BPDUs are lost but does not shut down the port.

Candidates may also confuse PortFast as it is related to edge ports but it only speeds up STP convergence and does not disable ports. Understanding that BPDU Guard uniquely disables the port immediately upon receiving BPDUs on an edge port is essential to avoid this trap.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Root Guard prevents a port from becoming a root port by blocking superior BPDUs but does not shut down the port immediately. It is designed to maintain the root bridge position, not to disable ports upon accidental switch connections.

B

PortFast allows a port to transition quickly to the forwarding state, reducing STP convergence time. However, it does not disable the port if a BPDU is received, so it does not meet the requirement to shut down the port immediately.

D

Loop Guard prevents a port from transitioning to forwarding if BPDUs are lost, protecting against unidirectional link failures. It does not disable the port upon receiving BPDUs and therefore does not meet the requirement.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question asked for a feature that prevents a switch from becoming the root bridge in a spanning tree topology, Root Guard would be the correct answer. It would be applicable in a situation where maintaining a specific switch as the root bridge is critical.

B

In a scenario where the question asks for a feature that allows a switch port to transition quickly to forwarding mode without waiting for Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) timers, PortFast would be the correct answer. This would apply in a situation where the administrator wants to optimize the connection time for end devices like PCs or printers.

D

In a scenario where a question asks for a feature that maintains network stability by preventing loops while still allowing ports to function normally, Loop Guard would be the correct answer. For instance, if the question focused on preventing broadcast storms due to misconfigured switches, Loop Guard would apply.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students may confuse Root Guard with BPDU Guard because both are STP security features. The name 'Guard' might imply protection against unauthorized switches, but Root Guard's purpose is different.

B

PortFast is often associated with access ports, and students might think it provides protection against switch connections. However, PortFast alone does not prevent loops or shut down the port.

D

The name 'Loop Guard' suggests it prevents loops, and students might think it would shut down a port to prevent loops caused by connecting a switch. However, its mechanism is different and does not involve immediate shutdown upon switch connection.

221
MCQmedium

A switch interface connects to a user PC and should belong only to VLAN 30. Which command assigns that VLAN after the interface is in access mode?

A.switchport access vlan 30
B.switchport trunk allowed vlan 30
C.encapsulation dot1Q 30
D.ip helper-address 30
AnswerA

This is the correct command to place an interface into VLAN 30 as an access port. When configured on a switchport that is set to access mode, it assigns that single VLAN to the port, allowing the user PC to communicate with other devices in VLAN 30 while isolating it from other VLANs. This is the standard method for connecting end devices like PCs, printers, and IP phones to a switch.

Why this answer

After an interface is placed into access mode, the command used to assign its VLAN is `switchport access vlan 30`. In plain language, this tells the switch which VLAN the endpoint traffic on that access port belongs to. Access mode defines the role of the interface, and the access VLAN command defines the specific VLAN membership for that role.

This distinction matters because some commands change the port’s behavior while others set the VLAN it uses. The correct answer is the one that directly assigns VLAN 30 to the access port rather than modifying a trunk or a native VLAN setting.

Exam trap

Be careful not to confuse commands for trunk ports with those for access ports. Ensure you understand the difference between setting a port mode and assigning a VLAN.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The command 'switchport trunk allowed vlan 30' is used on trunk ports to specify which VLANs are allowed to traverse the trunk link. It does not assign a VLAN to an access port; instead, it filters VLANs on a trunk, which is not appropriate for a port connected to a single PC.

C

The command 'encapsulation dot1Q 30' is used on a router subinterface to enable 802.1Q trunking and specify the VLAN for that subinterface. It is not a valid command on a switch access port, and switch ports do not use encapsulation commands for VLAN assignment.

D

The command 'ip helper-address 30' is used to configure DHCP relay on a router or Layer 3 switch interface, forwarding DHCP broadcasts to a DHCP server. It has nothing to do with VLAN assignment on a switch port.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a scenario where the question asks how to configure a trunk port to allow only VLAN 30 traffic while excluding other VLANs, this command would be appropriate. For example, if the question specifies that the interface is in trunk mode and requires VLAN filtering, this command would be correct.

C

In a different exam scenario where the question asks about configuring a trunk interface to support multiple VLANs, 'encapsulation dot1Q 30' would be correct if the question specified that the trunk should allow VLAN 30 using 802.1Q encapsulation.

D

In a question asking for the configuration of a router to enable DHCP relay for clients on VLAN 30, where the router needs to forward requests to a DHCP server with the address '30', this command would be appropriate.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

A student might confuse the concept of allowing VLANs on a trunk with assigning a VLAN to an access port, especially if they are familiar with trunk configuration but not clear on the distinction between access and trunk modes.

C

Students might associate 'dot1Q' with VLANs and think that specifying a VLAN number with this command would assign the VLAN to the port, not realizing that encapsulation is for trunking and not for access port configuration.

D

A student might mistakenly think that 'helper-address' is related to VLAN assignment because both involve IP addressing and VLANs, but this command serves a completely different purpose in DHCP relay.

222
MCQhard

A router learns 10.0.0.0/8 from OSPF and 10.10.0.0/16 from a static route. Which route is used for traffic to 10.10.20.1?

A.The OSPF 10.0.0.0/8 route
B.The static 10.10.0.0/16 route
C.The default route if present
D.Neither route, because the networks overlap
AnswerB

This is correct because it is the more specific matching route.

Why this answer

The static /16 route is used because it is more specific than the OSPF /8 route. In practical terms, even though both routes match the destination, the router chooses the one that narrows the destination range more precisely. Since 10.10.20.1 belongs to 10.10.0.0/16, that entry wins.

This question reinforces that longest-prefix match comes first. The broader OSPF route still matters for other destinations inside 10.0.0.0/8, but not for this one.

Exam trap

A frequent mistake is to assume that the OSPF route will be used simply because it is dynamically learned, or because it covers a larger network range. Candidates often overlook that the router applies longest-prefix match first, which means the more specific static route with a /16 mask takes precedence over the broader /8 OSPF route. This misunderstanding leads to incorrect answers, as the router does not ignore static routes in favor of OSPF when the static route is more specific.

Remember, overlapping routes are common, and the router always chooses the route with the most specific subnet mask matching the destination.

Why the other options are wrong

A

The OSPF 10.0.0.0/8 route is less specific than the static 10.10.0.0/16 route. Since the router uses longest-prefix match, the broader /8 route is not selected for traffic destined to 10.10.20.1.

C

The default route would only be used if no more specific matching routes exist. Since both OSPF and static routes match, and the static route is more specific, the default route is not used here.

D

Overlapping networks are common in routing tables and do not prevent route selection. The router resolves overlapping prefixes by choosing the longest-prefix match, so this option is incorrect.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different scenario where the OSPF route 10.0.0.0/8 is the only available route and no more specific routes exist for 10.10.20.1, the OSPF route would be used. For example, if a question stated that the static route was removed or invalidated, then the OSPF route would be the correct answer.

C

If the question stated that the router has no specific routes for 10.10.20.1 and only a default route configured, then the default route would be used for traffic to that destination. This would occur in a scenario where the static and OSPF routes were not present.

D

In a different scenario, if the question stated that both routes were configured with conflicting subnet masks or if the OSPF route was incorrectly configured to include the 10.10.0.0/16 range, then this option could be correct, indicating that neither route is usable due to overlap.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might think that OSPF, as a dynamic routing protocol, is preferred over a static route, or they might confuse administrative distance with prefix length. They may also incorrectly assume that a larger network range (like /8) automatically takes precedence.

C

Students may think that a default route is always used as a last resort, but they might forget that it only applies when no other route matches. They might also confuse the concept of 'default' with 'most preferred' or assume it overrides other routes.

D

Students might think that overlapping routes cause a conflict or error, similar to overlapping IP addresses on interfaces. They may not understand that routing tables can have multiple overlapping entries and that the longest match resolves the ambiguity.

223
MCQhard

PCs in VLAN 30 on SwitchA cannot reach PCs in VLAN 30 on SwitchB. VLAN 30 exists on both switches and all other VLANs work across the same link. Based on the exhibit, what is the most likely cause?

A.VLAN 30 is not allowed on the trunk from SwitchA.
B.The native VLAN is mismatched.
C.The trunk must use ISL instead of 802.1Q.
D.VLAN 30 must be configured as the native VLAN.
AnswerA

VLAN 30 is not included in SwitchA's trunk allowed list, so frames from VLAN 30 are not forwarded over the trunk to SwitchB. Unlike the native VLAN, which is untagged, VLAN 30 must be explicitly permitted with the switchport trunk allowed vlan command on both ends. Without this entry, all VLAN 30 traffic remains isolated to the local switch, preventing PCs on SwitchB from reaching those on SwitchA.

Why this answer

The trunk is up, but VLAN 30 is missing from the allowed list on SwitchA. In plain language, the hallway between the switches is open, but one side is refusing to carry that specific VLAN through the hallway. Since the other VLANs are working, the failure is selective rather than total. That strongly points to an allowed-VLAN problem rather than a broader trunk outage.

This is a classic CCNA switching scenario because it tests whether you can separate trunk health from per-VLAN forwarding. A trunk can be operational and still block one VLAN if that VLAN is not permitted on one side. The native VLAN and encapsulation are not the issue shown here — the mismatch in the allowed list is.

Exam trap

Be careful not to confuse general trunk issues with specific VLAN forwarding problems. Always check the allowed VLAN list when specific VLANs fail to pass.

Why the other options are wrong

B

The exhibit shows both switches have native VLAN 1 configured, so there is no mismatch. A native VLAN mismatch would cause all VLAN traffic to fail or be misdirected, not just a single VLAN.

C

Since other VLANs are working across the same trunk, the trunk encapsulation (802.1Q) is functioning correctly. Changing to ISL would not fix the issue and would break connectivity for all VLANs.

D

A VLAN does not need to be the native VLAN to traverse a trunk; native VLAN is only for untagged traffic. Making VLAN 30 the native VLAN would not solve the problem and could introduce other issues.

When would these options actually be correct?

B

In a scenario where a question specifies that PCs in VLAN 30 cannot communicate due to a native VLAN mismatch, and both switches are configured to use different native VLANs, this option would correctly identify the cause of the issue.

C

In a different scenario, if the question specified that the switches were configured to use ISL and that VLAN 30 was not configured to use ISL, then this option would be correct. For example, if the question stated that VLAN 30 was only configured for 802.1Q on both switches, this could lead to a failure in communication.

D

In a different scenario, if the question stated that PCs in VLAN 30 were unable to communicate due to untagged traffic being misrouted, then configuring VLAN 30 as the native VLAN could resolve the issue, making this option correct.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

B

Students often confuse native VLAN issues with VLAN pruning or allowed lists, and may assume that a single VLAN problem is due to native VLAN mismatch, especially if they have seen such issues in labs.

C

Some test-takers might think that ISL is required for certain VLANs or that 802.1Q has limitations, but in modern networks 802.1Q is the standard and ISL is obsolete.

D

Students may confuse the concept of native VLAN with the idea that a VLAN must be 'allowed' or 'special' to pass over a trunk, leading them to think that changing the native VLAN would help.

224
MCQmedium

Exhibit: A controller returns an authentication token after a successful API login. Why does the client include that token in later requests?

A.To replace the need for an IP address on the client
B.To prove identity and authorization on later API calls
C.To encrypt every packet at Layer 1
D.To change HTTP from a stateless protocol to a routing protocol
AnswerB

A bearer or session token is issued after an initial authentication exchange, such as an OAuth2 access token or a login-created session ID. On subsequent API requests, the client presents that token in the Authorization header, allowing the server to validate that the principal has already been authenticated and is authorized for the requested scope. This avoids re-sending usernames and passwords on every call, as the token itself is a proof of identity and granted permissions.

Why this answer

The token proves the client already authenticated and is authorized to use the API. It saves the client from resending credentials on every request and lets the server validate session or access scope.

Exam trap

A frequent exam trap is assuming that the authentication token replaces the client’s IP address or provides encryption at the physical layer. Some candidates mistakenly believe tokens function like network identifiers or encryption keys, but tokens solely serve as proof of identity and authorization within API sessions. This confusion can lead to selecting incorrect answers that describe unrelated network functions such as IP addressing or Layer 1 encryption.

Understanding that tokens are application-layer credentials, not network-layer or physical-layer features, is critical to avoid this trap.

Why the other options are wrong

A

Option A incorrectly suggests that tokens replace the need for an IP address on the client. IP addresses are fundamental for network communication and routing, and tokens do not substitute for them. This misunderstanding confuses network-layer addressing with application-layer authentication.

C

Option C incorrectly claims that tokens encrypt every packet at Layer 1. Tokens are not encryption mechanisms and do not operate at the physical layer. Encryption is handled by separate protocols such as TLS or IPsec.

D

Option D falsely asserts that tokens change HTTP from a stateless protocol to a routing protocol. HTTP remains stateless, and tokens enable session continuity without altering the protocol’s fundamental nature. Routing protocols are unrelated to token use.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

In a different context where the question asks about methods to identify clients in a network without relying on IP addresses, option A could be correct if discussing alternative identification mechanisms like tokens or unique identifiers.

C

In a question focused on network security protocols, where the context involves securing data transmission over a physical medium, option C could be correct if discussing how Layer 1 encryption methods protect data packets, making it relevant to secure communications.

D

In a different question context, if the question asked about a protocol that manages stateful connections, such as a custom application layer protocol designed for routing, this option could be correct. For instance, if the question involved a scenario where a token was used to maintain session state in a routing protocol, it would be valid.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might think that since the token identifies the client, it could replace the IP address, but they serve different purposes in the OSI model.

C

Students may confuse the security aspect of tokens (e.g., signed tokens) with encryption, but tokens do not encrypt packets; they are just credentials.

D

The term 'token' might be associated with routing tokens in some contexts, but in API authentication, it has no relation to routing.

225
MCQeasy

A user types www.example.com into a browser. Which service is used first to resolve that name into an IP address?

A.DHCP
B.DNS
C.NTP
D.Syslog
AnswerB

The Domain Name System resolves human-readable hostnames like www.example.com to routable IP addresses. When a user types a URL, the browser first queries a DNS resolver (often via recursive lookup) to obtain the destination's A/AAAA record before establishing a TCP connection. Without DNS, the browser would need the literal numeric IP address, so this service is essential at the start of web navigation.

Why this answer

DNS maps hostnames to IP addresses, which is the first step when a user enters a URL. DHCP assigns IP addresses, NTP synchronizes time, and Syslog handles logging—none of these services resolve domain names to IP addresses. The web session itself uses HTTP or HTTPS later, but name resolution happens first.

Exam trap

Don't confuse the role of DNS with HTTP, ARP, or DHCP. Remember, DNS is specifically for domain name resolution.

Why the other options are wrong

A

DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) assigns IP addresses, subnet masks, default gateways, and other network configuration parameters to clients. It does not perform name resolution; DNS is required for that.

C

NTP (Network Time Protocol) is used to synchronize clocks between network devices, not to resolve hostnames to IP addresses. It operates on UDP port 123 and has no role in DNS resolution.

D

Syslog is a protocol for logging system messages and events from network devices. It has no function in name resolution; it is used for monitoring and troubleshooting.

When would these options actually be correct?

A

If the question were about which service is responsible for providing IP addresses to devices on a local network, then DHCP would be the correct answer. For example, a question asking, 'Which service assigns IP addresses to clients in a network?' would make this option valid.

C

In a question asking about time synchronization protocols and their role in network services, such as 'Which protocol is used to synchronize time across devices in a network?', NTP would be the correct answer, as it directly relates to time management rather than name resolution.

D

If the exam question asked about which service is responsible for logging network events related to domain name resolution, then Syslog would be the correct answer. In this scenario, the focus would be on monitoring and logging rather than name resolution.

Why candidates pick the wrong answer

A

Students might think DHCP is involved because it can provide DNS server addresses to clients, but the actual resolution of a domain name to an IP address is done by DNS, not DHCP.

C

Students may confuse NTP with DNS because both are network services that involve translation or synchronization, but NTP deals with time, not names.

D

Syslog might be confused with DNS because both are network services that involve sending messages, but their purposes are entirely different.

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