Quick Answer
The initiator, specifically the host HBA and multipath driver, is the component responsible for selecting the active path for I/O operations in a multipath Fibre Channel SAN. This is because the multipath driver, such as Linux DM-Multipath or Cisco’s N-Port Virtualization, resides on the host and applies path selection policies—like round-robin or active/passive—to decide which physical path each I/O request will take. The storage target, fabric switches, and name server only handle connectivity, discovery, or frame forwarding; they do not make per-I/O routing decisions. On the Cisco DCCOR 350-601 exam, this concept tests your understanding of the host’s role in multipathing versus the fabric’s role in transport. A common trap is assuming the switch or target selects the path, but remember: the initiator drives the I/O, so it chooses the road. Memory tip: “Initiator decides, fabric provides.”
This 350-601 practice question tests your understanding of storage network. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. 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 multipath Fibre Channel SAN, which component is responsible for selecting the active path for I/O operations?
The storage target
Why wrong: The target responds to I/O but does not select path.
The Fibre Channel switch
Why wrong: Switches forward frames; path selection is host-based.
The fabric name server
Why wrong: Name server provides device discovery, not path selection.
The initiator (host HBA and multipath driver)
Multipath software on the host decides which path to use.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
The initiator (host HBA and multipath driver)
In a multipath Fibre Channel SAN, the initiator (host HBA and multipath driver) is responsible for selecting the active path for I/O operations. The multipath driver, such as Cisco MDS N-Port Virtualization or native OS multipathing (e.g., Linux DM-Multipath), uses path selection policies (e.g., round-robin, least-queued, or active/passive) to choose the path for each I/O request. The storage target, switch, and fabric name server do not make per-I/O path decisions; they only provide connectivity or discovery services.
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.
The storage target
Why it's wrong here
The target responds to I/O but does not select path.
The Fibre Channel switch
Why it's wrong here
Switches forward frames; path selection is host-based.
The fabric name server
Why it's wrong here
Name server provides device discovery, not path selection.
The initiator (host HBA and multipath driver)
Why this is correct
Multipath software on the host decides which path to use.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
Cisco often tests the misconception that the Fibre Channel switch or storage array controls path selection, but in reality, the initiator's multipath driver is the sole decision-maker for active I/O paths.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, the multipath driver on the initiator maintains a path group for each LUN, tracking active/passive states and using algorithms like ALUA (Asymmetric Logical Unit Access) to determine preferred paths. In real-world scenarios, misconfigured path selection policies can cause I/O imbalances or failover delays, making it critical to align the driver's policy with the storage array's active/passive or active/active configuration. The initiator's HBA driver also interacts with the fabric via FLOGI and PLOGI to establish sessions, but the multipath layer above it makes the final path decision.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
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
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FAQ
Storage Network — This question tests Storage Network — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: The initiator (host HBA and multipath driver) — In a multipath Fibre Channel SAN, the initiator (host HBA and multipath driver) is responsible for selecting the active path for I/O operations. The multipath driver, such as Cisco MDS N-Port Virtualization or native OS multipathing (e.g., Linux DM-Multipath), uses path selection policies (e.g., round-robin, least-queued, or active/passive) to choose the path for each I/O request. The storage target, switch, and fabric name server do not make per-I/O path decisions; they only provide connectivity or discovery services.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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