350-601 Network Practice Question
In a spine-leaf architecture using eBGP as the routing protocol, what is the primary purpose of using eBGP rather than iBGP between spine and leaf switches?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that eBGP is chosen for faster convergence or for EVPN support, but the real reason in a spine-leaf architecture is to eliminate the need for a separate IGP, simplifying the underlay design.
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 avoid the need for an IGP and simplify configuration
In a spine-leaf architecture using eBGP, the primary purpose is to avoid the need for an IGP (such as OSPF or IS-IS) and simplify configuration. eBGP between spine and leaf switches allows each leaf to be in a different private AS (e.g., 65001–650XX), and the spine can use the BGP AS_PATH to detect and prevent loops without requiring an underlying IGP. This eliminates the complexity of running a separate IGP for underlay routing, reducing operational overhead and configuration steps.
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 enable faster convergence than OSPF
Why it's wrong here
Convergence is not inherently faster with eBGP.
- ✓
To avoid the need for an IGP and simplify configuration
Why this is correct
eBGP in a spine-leaf eliminates the need for an IGP and provides simple, scalable routing.
- ✗
To support EVPN address families
Why it's wrong here
EVPN can run over iBGP as well; not the primary reason.
- ✗
To allow for unequal-cost load balancing
Why it's wrong here
eBGP does not support unequal-cost load balancing by default.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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