CCNP Security Practice Question
A network administrator is configuring a Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) to secure wireless client traffic. The requirement is to encrypt all wireless traffic between the client and the access point using a pre-shared key, without requiring a separate authentication server. Which security policy should the administrator configure on the WLC?
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is assuming that Enterprise modes can be used without a server, or that open authentication provides encryption.
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
✓
WPA2 Personal with AES
WPA2 Personal with AES uses a pre-shared key for authentication and AES for encryption, providing strong security without the need for an external RADIUS server. This aligns with the requirement to encrypt traffic using a PSK and no separate authentication server. Enterprise modes require a server, and open authentication lacks encryption.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
WPA2 Enterprise with 802.1X
Why it's wrong here
WPA2 Enterprise requires an external authentication server, such as RADIUS, to authenticate users. The scenario specifies no separate authentication server, so this option does not meet the requirement. It provides strong security but adds infrastructure complexity that is not desired here.
- ✓
WPA2 Personal with AES
Why this is correct
WPA2 Personal uses a pre-shared key (PSK) for authentication and AES for encryption. It does not require an external authentication server, meeting the requirement. This is suitable for small to medium networks where a shared key is acceptable and simplifies deployment.
- ✗
Open authentication with Web Policy
Why it's wrong here
Open authentication provides no encryption and typically uses a web portal for authentication. It does not encrypt traffic with a pre-shared key. While it can be used for guest access, it does not meet the requirement of encrypting traffic with a PSK.
- ✗
WPA3 Enterprise with 192-bit mode
Why it's wrong here
WPA3 Enterprise also requires an authentication server and is designed for high-security environments. It does not use a pre-shared key. The scenario explicitly requires a pre-shared key and no separate server, so this option is incorrect despite being a more modern standard.
Quick reference
AAA Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Port(s) | Encryption | Transport | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RADIUS | 1812 / 1813 | Password only | UDP | Network access control |
| TACACS+ | 49 | Full packet | TCP | Device administration |
| Diameter | 3868 | Full session | TCP / SCTP | Carrier / mobile networks |
| 802.1X | — | EAP-based | Layer 2 | Port-based access control |
TACACS+ encrypts the entire packet; RADIUS only encrypts the password field — a key exam distinction.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official Cisco exam blueprint
This 350-401 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 350-401 exam.