The answer is that the ability to manage the stack using a single IP address is a true characteristic of Cisco StackWise Virtual technology. This is correct because StackWise Virtual logically unifies the control and data planes of two physical switches into a single virtual domain, presenting them as one device to the network. As a result, management traffic, spanning-tree calculations, and routing protocols all operate through a unified control plane, allowing a single IP address to manage the entire virtual switch. On the ENCOR 350-401 exam, this question tests your understanding of how StackWise Virtual differs from traditional stacking—specifically that it uses a virtual switch link (VSL) for inter-chassis communication and supports active/active forwarding. A common trap is confusing this with VSS or traditional stacking; remember that StackWise Virtual is designed for two chassis only and requires identical hardware. Memory tip: think “One IP, Two Chassis, Unified Brain” to recall that a single management IP is a defining feature.
CCNP Architecture Practice Question
This 350-401 practice question tests your understanding of architecture. 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.
Which THREE characteristics are true about Cisco StackWise virtual technology? (Choose three.)
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
It allows multiple physical switches to operate as a single logical switch.
Cisco StackWise Virtual allows multiple physical switches to be interconnected and operate as a single logical entity, simplifying management and improving redundancy. This is achieved by creating a virtual switch domain where control and data planes are unified, so the stack appears as one device to the network.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✓
It allows multiple physical switches to operate as a single logical switch.
Why this is correct
StackWise virtual creates a single control plane across member switches.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
Each member switch must have the same hardware model.
Why it's wrong here
While recommended, it is not strictly required; however, mixing models may limit features.
✓
The stack can be managed using a single IP address.
Why this is correct
The entire stack is managed via a single management IP, typically on the active switch.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
It requires dedicated stacking cables for interconnectivity.
Why it's wrong here
StackWise virtual can use standard Ethernet interfaces for the stack links.
✗
It supports up to 9 member switches in a stack.
Why it's wrong here
The maximum number of members is typically 8 for StackWise virtual (e.g., Catalyst 9000 series).
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Cisco often tests the distinction between physical StackWise (cable-based, up to 9 switches, same model required) and StackWise Virtual (Ethernet-based, 2 switches, mixed models allowed), so candidates mistakenly apply the characteristics of physical stacking to StackWise Virtual.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
StackWise Virtual uses Virtual Switch Link (VSL) ports, which are standard Ethernet interfaces configured to carry both control and data traffic between the two member switches. It employs a dual-active detection mechanism (e.g., using enhanced PAgP or a dedicated link) to prevent split-brain scenarios if the VSL fails. In real-world deployments, this technology is critical for campus core/distribution layers where high availability and simplified management are needed without the physical cabling constraints of traditional stacking.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A practitioner preparing for the 350-401 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Architecture — This question tests Architecture — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: It allows multiple physical switches to operate as a single logical switch. — Cisco StackWise Virtual allows multiple physical switches to be interconnected and operate as a single logical entity, simplifying management and improving redundancy. This is achieved by creating a virtual switch domain where control and data planes are unified, so the stack appears as one device to the network.
What should I do if I get this 350-401 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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