Question 1mediumdrag order
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Quick Answer
The correct order begins by entering global configuration mode, then enabling Rapid PVST+ with `spanning-tree mode rapid-pvst`, followed by designating the switch as the root bridge for VLAN 1 using `spanning-tree vlan 1 root primary`, applying PortFast to all access interfaces with `spanning-tree portfast default`, and finally enabling BPDU Guard globally with `spanning-tree portfast bpduguard default`. This sequence is correct because Rapid PVST+ must be active before root-bridge commands take effect under that mode, and BPDU Guard is applied last to secure all PortFast-enabled ports—if a BPDU is received, the port is immediately err-disabled, preventing loops. On the CCNA 200-301 v2 exam, this drag-and-drop task tests your ability to logically order STP configuration steps; a common trap is placing BPDU Guard before PortFast, which fails because the guard only protects ports already set to PortFast. Remember the mnemonic “Mode, Root, Fast, Guard”—each step builds on the prior one for a stable, loop-free topology.
CCNA Switching and Network Access Practice Question
This 200-301 practice question tests your understanding of switching and network access. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. 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 following steps into the correct order to configure Rapid PVST+ on SW1, make it the root bridge, and enable PortFast with BPDU Guard on all access ports.
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
✓
Enter global configuration mode on SW1 using the command configure terminal.
The correct order begins by entering global configuration mode, then enabling Rapid PVST+ so that subsequent spanning-tree commands operate under that mode. Next, the switch is designated as the root bridge for VLAN 1 using 'spanning-tree vlan 1 root primary', which sets a superior bridge priority. After the root election is influenced, PortFast is applied to all access interfaces to transition them directly into forwarding state. Finally, BPDU Guard is enabled globally to protect all PortFast-enabled ports; if a BPDU is received on such a port, it is immediately put into err-disabled state, preventing potential loops. Each step builds on the previous one: enabling Rapid PVST+ must precede root setup, root selection should be completed before any access-port optimization, and BPDU Guard is applied last to secure the already-accelerated ports.
Key principle: Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: authentication is not authorization
Logging in proves the user can authenticate. It does not automatically mean the user is allowed to enter privileged or configuration mode. Watch for AAA authorization, privilege level and command authorization details.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
This kind of question is testing the difference between identity and permission. A user may successfully log in to a router because authentication is working, but still fail to enter configuration mode because authorization is missing, misconfigured or mapped to a lower privilege level.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- Authentication checks who the user is.
- Authorization controls what the user is allowed to do after login.
- Privilege levels affect access to EXEC and configuration commands.
- AAA, TACACS+ and RADIUS can separate login success from command access.
TExam Day Tips
- Do not assume successful login means full administrative access.
- Look for words such as cannot enter configuration mode, privilege level, authorization or command access.
- Separate login problems from permission problems before choosing the answer.
Key takeaway
Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
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 Cisco AAA concepts — authentication, authorization, and accounting. Study privilege levels (0–15), command authorization under TACACS+, and how RADIUS differs. Then practise related 200-301 questions on access control and AAA configuration.
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Switching and Network Access — study guide chapter
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Switching and Network Access practice questions
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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 — Authentication checks who the user is..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Enter global configuration mode on SW1 using the command configure terminal. — The correct order begins by entering global configuration mode, then enabling Rapid PVST+ so that subsequent spanning-tree commands operate under that mode. Next, the switch is designated as the root bridge for VLAN 1 using 'spanning-tree vlan 1 root primary', which sets a superior bridge priority. After the root election is influenced, PortFast is applied to all access interfaces to transition them directly into forwarding state. Finally, BPDU Guard is enabled globally to protect all PortFast-enabled ports; if a BPDU is received on such a port, it is immediately put into err-disabled state, preventing potential loops. Each step builds on the previous one: enabling Rapid PVST+ must precede root setup, root selection should be completed before any access-port optimization, and BPDU Guard is applied last to secure the already-accelerated ports.
What should I do if I get this 200-301 question wrong?
Review Cisco AAA concepts — authentication, authorization, and accounting. Study privilege levels (0–15), command authorization under TACACS+, and how RADIUS differs. Then practise related 200-301 questions on access control and AAA configuration.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Authentication checks who the user is.
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Last reviewed: Jun 14, 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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