CCNP Architecture Practice Question
A network engineer is configuring a new Cisco Wireless LAN Controller (WLC) and needs to ensure that the WLC can be managed remotely from a different subnet. The WLC is connected to a switch port that is configured as a trunk. Which interface on the WLC must be configured with an IP address to allow remote management?
⚠ Common exam trap
Test-takers frequently confuse the service port with the management interface, as both can be used for management, but only the management interface supports in-band remote management from a different subnet.
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
✓
Management interface
The management interface on a Cisco WLC is the correct interface for remote management. It is configured with an IP address and default gateway, allowing access from different subnets. It is also used for AP communication and other services. The service port is for out-of-band management, the virtual interface is for internal functions, and dynamic interfaces are for user traffic.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
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Virtual interface
Why it's wrong here
The virtual interface is used for mobility management, DHCP relay, and other internal functions. It is not used for remote management of the WLC. It is always up and is not tied to a physical port or VLAN. Remote management traffic does not reach the virtual interface because it is not advertised or routed. The virtual interface IP is typically a private address not used for management access.
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Dynamic interface
Why it's wrong here
Dynamic interfaces are used to map VLANs to WLANs for user traffic. They are not used for management of the WLC itself. While a dynamic interface can have an IP address, it is not the interface used for remote management. Management traffic is handled by the management interface. Dynamic interfaces are for client data and are not intended for administrative access.
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Service port
Why it's wrong here
The service port is an out-of-band management port used for initial configuration and troubleshooting. It does not support remote management from a different subnet because it is typically isolated and not routed. While it can be used for management, it is not the primary interface for in-band remote management. The service port is not mapped to a VLAN on the trunk.
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Management interface
Why this is correct
The management interface on a Cisco WLC is used for in-band management. It must be configured with an IP address, subnet mask, and default gateway to allow remote management from a different subnet. This interface is also used for communication with access points, DHCP, and other services. It is typically mapped to a VLAN on the trunk port.
Visual reference
About these practice questions
This 350-401 question is part of Courseiva's 1,923-question bank — original exam-style content with full explanations and wrong-answer analysis, never real exam questions or exam dumps. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
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.