350-601 Compute Practice Question
In a HyperFlex cluster, what is the function of the witness VM?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that the witness VM is used for backup or management, but its sole purpose is to provide a quorum vote in split-brain scenarios, not to store data or offload processing.
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
✓
To act as a tie-breaker for cluster quorum
The witness VM in a HyperFlex cluster is a lightweight virtual machine that participates in the cluster's quorum process. It provides a tie-breaking vote when the cluster experiences a split-brain scenario, ensuring that only one side of the cluster remains operational and data integrity is maintained. Without the witness, the cluster could become unavailable if an even number of nodes lose connectivity.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
To store backup copies of all cluster data
Why it's wrong here
The witness does not store data; it only maintains quorum state.
- ✗
To offload data replication processing
Why it's wrong here
Data replication is handled by the HXDP across storage nodes.
- ✗
To provide a centralized management interface
Why it's wrong here
Management is done via HX Connect or vCenter plugin, not the witness.
- ✓
To act as a tie-breaker for cluster quorum
Why this is correct
The witness ensures cluster availability by voting in the event of a failure.
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