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mediumDrag & DropObjective-mapped
CCNP Practice Question: Drag and drop the steps of MAB (MAC…
Drag and drop the steps of MAB (MAC Authentication Bypass) fallback flow into the correct order, from first to last.
Answer choices
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Correct answer & explanation
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Switch detects link up and no EAP response
MAB is used as a fallback when 802.1X fails; the switch detects the MAC, sends a RADIUS Access-Request, ISE checks the MAC database, returns an Access-Accept with a downloadable ACL, and the switch applies the ACL.
Visual reference
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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Variation 1. Drag and drop the steps of MAB (MAC Authentication Bypass) fallback flow into the correct order, from first to last.
medium- ✓ A.Host connects; switch detects link up
- ✓ B.802.1X times out; switch starts MAB
- ✓ C.Switch sends RADIUS Access-Request with MAC as credentials
- ✓ D.ISE validates MAC in endpoint database
- ✓ E.ISE returns Access-Accept; switch places port in authorized VLAN
Why A: MAB is a fallback method when 802.1X fails: the switch detects the host MAC, sends a RADIUS Access-Request with the MAC as username/password, ISE checks the MAC against its database, and then either grants access (placing the port in the authorized VLAN) or denies it.
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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.