350-601 Storage Network Practice Question
A data center uses NPV to connect edge switches to a core Fibre Channel switch. The edge switches report that some servers cannot log in. What is a likely cause?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that trunking mode or VSAN mismatches are the primary cause of NPV login failures, but the critical requirement is NPIV on the core switch, as NPV relies on it to handle multiple virtual N_Port IDs over a single physical link.
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
✓
NPIV not enabled on the core switch
In an NPV environment, the edge switch (NPV mode) relies on the core Fibre Channel switch to handle fabric login (FLOGI) and name server registration. NPIV (N_Port ID Virtualization) must be enabled on the core switch to allow multiple N_Port IDs to be assigned to a single physical N_Port, which is essential for NPV to function. If NPIV is not enabled on the core, the core switch cannot accept FLOGI requests from the NPV edge switch, preventing servers from logging into the fabric.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Overlapping VSAN IDs between edge and core
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: Overlapping VSANs are allowed and do not prevent login.
- ✗
F port binding on the edge switch
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: Port binding is optional and does not affect NPV login.
- ✗
Trunking mode not enabled on the core switch
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect: Trunking is not required for basic NPV operation.
- ✓
NPIV not enabled on the core switch
Why this is correct
Correct: NPIV must be enabled on core switches to support NPV.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 350-601 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 350-601 exam.