350-601 Storage Network Practice Question
In a multipath Fibre Channel SAN, which component is responsible for selecting the active path for I/O operations?
⚠ Common exam trap
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.
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
✓
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.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
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.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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