350-601 Compute Practice Question
A UCS domain is experiencing intermittent storage connectivity. The storage admin confirms the SAN is properly zoned and the VSANs are configured. The UCS admin finds that the host interface (HBAs) are showing 'Link Down' intermittently. Which of the following is a likely cause?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between physical-layer issues (SFP/cable) and configuration or policy errors, tempting candidates to overthink with fabric failover or interface mode when the symptom is a simple link flap.
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
✓
Faulty SFP or cable
Intermittent 'Link Down' on HBAs, despite correct SAN zoning and VSAN configuration, strongly points to a physical-layer issue. Faulty SFPs or damaged cables cause intermittent link flaps, which manifest as sporadic HBA link-down events. This is the most common cause of such symptoms in UCS environments.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Incompatible HBA firmware
Why it's wrong here
Firmware incompatibility typically causes persistent errors or no link.
- ✗
Mismatched fabric failover policy
Why it's wrong here
Failover policy affects path selection, not physical link state.
- ✗
Incorrect Fibre Channel interface mode on the FI
Why it's wrong here
Mode mismatch usually causes persistent link failure, not intermittent.
- ✓
Faulty SFP or cable
Why this is correct
Physical layer issues often cause intermittent link flapping.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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