- A
VLAN: A logical segmentation of a network into separate broadcast domains at Layer 2.
An access port belongs to a single VLAN and carries traffic for that VLAN only. It is typically used to connect end devices like PCs or printers.
- B
Trunk: A link that carries traffic for multiple VLANs, typically using 802.1Q tagging.
This is incorrect because a trunk port carries traffic for multiple VLANs using 802.1Q tagging, not a single VLAN.
- C
Access port: A switch port assigned to a single VLAN, carrying untagged traffic.
This is incorrect because the native VLAN is used for untagged frames on a trunk, not for assigning a port to a single VLAN.
- D
802.1Q: The IEEE standard for VLAN tagging on Ethernet frames.
This is incorrect because the allowed VLAN list filters which VLANs are permitted on a trunk, not a port mode for a single VLAN.
CCNA Switching and Network Access Practice Question
This 200-301 practice question tests your understanding of switching and network access. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
Drag and drop the VLAN and trunking commands/concepts on the left to their correct descriptions on the right.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
VLAN: A logical segmentation of a network into separate broadcast domains at Layer 2.
These are fundamental VLAN/trunking concepts: VLAN segments, trunk carries multiple VLANs, access port is single VLAN, 802.1Q is tagging standard, VLAN ID is the identifier.
Key principle: A trunk being up does not mean the VLAN is allowed across it. Always verify the allowed VLAN list and whether the VLAN exists on both switches.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
VLAN: A logical segmentation of a network into separate broadcast domains at Layer 2.
Why this is correct
An access port belongs to a single VLAN and carries traffic for that VLAN only. It is typically used to connect end devices like PCs or printers.
Related concept
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
- ✓
Trunk: A link that carries traffic for multiple VLANs, typically using 802.1Q tagging.
Why this is correct
This is incorrect because a trunk port carries traffic for multiple VLANs using 802.1Q tagging, not a single VLAN.
Related concept
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
- ✓
Access port: A switch port assigned to a single VLAN, carrying untagged traffic.
Why this is correct
This is incorrect because the native VLAN is used for untagged frames on a trunk, not for assigning a port to a single VLAN.
Related concept
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
- ✓
802.1Q: The IEEE standard for VLAN tagging on Ethernet frames.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: an active trunk can still block the VLAN you need
A trunk being up does not prove every VLAN is crossing it. Check allowed VLAN lists, native VLAN mismatch, VLAN existence and access-port assignment.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
VLAN questions usually combine access-port and trunking clues. The key is to identify whether the issue is local to one switchport, caused by the trunk, or caused by the VLAN not existing where it needs to exist.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
- Trunk ports carry multiple VLANs between switches.
- Allowed VLAN lists decide which VLANs can cross a trunk.
- Native VLAN mismatch can create confusing symptoms.
TExam Day Tips
- Use show vlan brief to verify access VLANs.
- Use show interfaces trunk to verify trunk state and allowed VLANs.
- Do not treat every same-VLAN issue as a routing problem.
Key takeaway
A trunk being up does not mean the VLAN is allowed across it. Always verify the allowed VLAN list and whether the VLAN exists on both switches.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A help-desk technician troubleshoots why a newly connected PC cannot reach shared printers on the same floor. The cable is good, the switch port is active, but the PC is in VLAN 20 and the printers are in VLAN 10. The uplink trunk only allows VLAN 10. A trunk being up does not mean every VLAN crosses it.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review VLAN allowed lists, native VLAN mismatch detection, and how to verify VLAN membership with show vlan brief and show interfaces trunk. Then practise related 200-301 questions on switching, trunking, and access-port configuration.
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FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 200-301 question test?
Switching and Network Access — This question tests Switching and Network Access — Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: VLAN: A logical segmentation of a network into separate broadcast domains at Layer 2. — These are fundamental VLAN/trunking concepts: VLAN segments, trunk carries multiple VLANs, access port is single VLAN, 802.1Q is tagging standard, VLAN ID is the identifier.
What should I do if I get this 200-301 question wrong?
Review VLAN allowed lists, native VLAN mismatch detection, and how to verify VLAN membership with show vlan brief and show interfaces trunk. Then practise related 200-301 questions on switching, trunking, and access-port configuration.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
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Last reviewed: Jun 6, 2026
This 200-301 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 200-301 exam.
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