The correct answer is to replace the SFP module on the switch port with a compatible Cisco SFP. This resolves the issue because Fibre Channel link flapping, especially when both ends are configured for the same speed, is most often caused by a faulty or incompatible SFP at the physical layer; a genuine Cisco SFP ensures proper signal integrity and protocol negotiation. On the Cisco DCCOR 350-601 exam, this question tests your ability to isolate Layer 1 problems in a storage network—a common trap is to waste time adjusting timers or administrative states, which only mask the symptom. Remember that link flapping at consistent intervals almost always points to a hardware fault, not a configuration error. Memory tip: “Flapping SFP? Flip the SFP.”
350-601 Storage Network Practice Question
This 350-601 practice question tests your understanding of storage network. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. 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.
A storage administrator notices that a Fiber Channel link between a server and a Cisco MDS switch is flapping every few minutes. The server's HBA and the switch port are both configured for 16 Gbps. Which action is most likely to resolve the issue?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "most likely"
Why it matters: Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Replace the SFP module on the switch port with a compatible Cisco SFP
Option C is correct because the most common cause of link flapping is an incompatible or faulty SFP. Replacing it with a compatible, genuine Cisco SFP resolves the issue. Option A is wrong because changing the admin state does not address the physical layer problem. Option B is wrong because increasing the timeout may mask the flapping but not fix it. Option D is wrong because setting auto-negotiation does not guarantee link stability if the SFP is faulty.
Key principle: Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Increase the link timeout interval on the switch port
Why it's wrong here
Temporary masking of the symptom.
✓
Replace the SFP module on the switch port with a compatible Cisco SFP
Why this is correct
Faulty SFP is a common cause of link flapping.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "most likely" in the question point toward this answer.
Auto-negotiation is not standard in FC and does not fix SFP issues.
✗
Change the admin state of the interface to shut and no shut
Why it's wrong here
This does not address the underlying physical issue.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: usable hosts are not the same as total addresses
Subnetting questions often tempt you into counting all addresses. In normal IPv4 subnets, the network and broadcast addresses are not usable host addresses.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Subnetting questions test whether you can identify the network, broadcast address, usable range, mask and correct subnet. Slow down enough to calculate the block size correctly.
KKey Concepts to Remember
CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
Block size helps identify subnet boundaries.
Network and broadcast addresses are not usable hosts in normal IPv4 subnets.
The required host count determines the smallest suitable subnet.
TExam Day Tips
→Write the block size before choosing the subnet.
→Check whether the question asks for hosts, subnets or a specific address range.
→Do not confuse /24, /25, /26 and /27 host counts.
Key takeaway
Count usable hosts — not total addresses — and remember that the network and broadcast addresses are not available to hosts in standard IPv4 subnets.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related 350-601 subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
Storage Network — This question tests Storage Network — CIDR notation defines the prefix length..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Replace the SFP module on the switch port with a compatible Cisco SFP — Option C is correct because the most common cause of link flapping is an incompatible or faulty SFP. Replacing it with a compatible, genuine Cisco SFP resolves the issue. Option A is wrong because changing the admin state does not address the physical layer problem. Option B is wrong because increasing the timeout may mask the flapping but not fix it. Option D is wrong because setting auto-negotiation does not guarantee link stability if the SFP is faulty.
What should I do if I get this 350-601 question wrong?
Review block sizes, usable host formulas (2^n − 2), and how to find network and broadcast addresses for /24 through /30. Then practise related 350-601 subnetting questions on CIDR, address ranges, and subnet selection.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "most likely". Probability qualifier — the question wants the most probable cause or outcome, not a guaranteed one. Eliminate low-probability options.
What is the key concept behind this question?
CIDR notation defines the prefix length.
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Question Discussion
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