Quick Answer
The answer is to verify that the new host’s controller VM firmware version matches the cluster’s version. This is correct because a firmware mismatch prevents the controller VMs from synchronizing storage operations, directly causing the cluster health status to show 'Degraded' after adding an ESXi host. On the Cisco DCCOR / CCNP Data Center Core 350-601 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of HyperFlex cluster lifecycle management and the critical role of CVM firmware alignment—a common trap is to check network connectivity or storage policies first, but the mismatch is the root cause. A useful memory tip is "CVM version first, or the cluster is cursed"—always confirm firmware parity before troubleshooting other components.
This 350-601 practice question tests your understanding of compute. 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.
In a Cisco HyperFlex cluster, a new ESXi host is being added. The host is discovered, but the cluster health status shows 'Degraded'. What should be the first troubleshooting step?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "first"
Why it matters: Order matters here. You are being tested on which action comes before the others — not which action is generally useful.
Reboot the new ESXi host.
Why wrong: Rebooting without diagnosis may not resolve the issue.
Verify that the new host's controller VM has the same firmware version as the cluster.
Firmware consistency is critical for cluster stability.
Check if the vCenter Server is in maintenance mode.
Why wrong: vCenter maintenance is not directly related to host addition.
Delete and re-create the cluster.
Why wrong: Too drastic and will cause downtime.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Verify that the new host's controller VM has the same firmware version as the cluster.
When adding a new ESXi host to a Cisco HyperFlex cluster, the controller VM (CVM) firmware version must match the cluster's version. A mismatch causes the cluster health status to show 'Degraded' because the CVMs cannot properly synchronize storage operations. Verifying and aligning the firmware version is the first troubleshooting step, as it directly impacts cluster stability.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Reboot the new ESXi host.
Why it's wrong here
Rebooting without diagnosis may not resolve the issue.
Verify that the new host's controller VM has the same firmware version as the cluster.
Why this is correct
Firmware consistency is critical for cluster stability.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "first" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Check if the vCenter Server is in maintenance mode.
Why it's wrong here
vCenter maintenance is not directly related to host addition.
Delete and re-create the cluster.
Why it's wrong here
Too drastic and will cause downtime.
Common exam traps
Cisco often tests the misconception that a 'Degraded' cluster health status is due to network or vCenter issues, when in fact it frequently stems from firmware or software version mismatches in the HyperFlex storage layer.
Detailed technical explanation
HyperFlex uses a distributed storage architecture where each ESXi host runs a CVM that participates in the cluster's storage fabric. Firmware version consistency ensures compatibility of the storage controller and HX Data Platform components; a mismatch can cause the CVM to fail joining the storage cluster, leading to degraded health. In practice, the 'hxcli' or Intersight UI can be used to check and upgrade the CVM firmware to match the cluster baseline.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the 350-601 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
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
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FAQ
Compute — This question tests Compute — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Verify that the new host's controller VM has the same firmware version as the cluster. — When adding a new ESXi host to a Cisco HyperFlex cluster, the controller VM (CVM) firmware version must match the cluster's version. A mismatch causes the cluster health status to show 'Degraded' because the CVMs cannot properly synchronize storage operations. Verifying and aligning the firmware version is the first troubleshooting step, as it directly impacts cluster stability.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Yes — watch for: "first". Order matters here. You are being tested on which action comes before the others — not which action is generally useful.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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