Quick Answer
The correct answer is N_Port ID Virtualization (NPIV). This technique allows multiple initiators to share a single physical Fibre Channel port by assigning multiple N-port IDs, each with its own unique FCID, effectively virtualizing the port for separate host connections. On the Cisco DCCOR / CCNP Data Center Core 350-601 exam, NPIV is frequently tested as a key SAN virtualization feature, often appearing in questions that contrast it with NPV (N_Port Virtualization), which reduces domain IDs but does not allocate multiple N-port IDs per port. A common trap is confusing NPIV with FCoE-only technologies, but NPIV works on native Fibre Channel as well, and it is supported on both switches and HBAs. To remember, think "NPIV = multiple IDs per physical port," while "NPV = proxy switching to reduce domains."
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 Fibre Channel SAN, a technique is used to allow multiple initiators to share a single physical FC port by assigning multiple N-port IDs. What is this technique called?
N_Port ID Virtualization (NPIV)
NPIV allows multiple FCIDs per physical port.
NPIV is exclusive to FCoE environments
Why wrong: NPIV is used in native FC as well.
NPIV is only available on initiator HBAs
Why wrong: NPIV is supported on both initiators and switches.
N_Port Virtualization (NPV)
Why wrong: NPV reduces the number of domain IDs, not multiple N-port IDs.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
N_Port ID Virtualization (NPIV)
Option B is correct: NPIV (N_Port ID Virtualization) assigns multiple FCIDs per physical port, enabling virtualized initiators. Option A is wrong because NPV (N_Port Virtualization) reduces domain IDs but does not allocate multiple N-port IDs per port. Option C is wrong because NPIV works on native FC, not just FCoE. Option D is wrong because NPIV is supported on both switches and HBAs.
Key principle: NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
N_Port ID Virtualization (NPIV)
Why this is correct
NPIV allows multiple FCIDs per physical port.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
NPIV is exclusive to FCoE environments
Why it's wrong here
NPIV is used in native FC as well.
NPIV is only available on initiator HBAs
Why it's wrong here
NPIV is supported on both initiators and switches.
N_Port Virtualization (NPV)
Why it's wrong here
NPV reduces the number of domain IDs, not multiple N-port IDs.
Common exam traps
NAT is not only about the public address. The inside/outside interface roles and the ACL or rule that matches traffic are just as important.
Detailed technical explanation
NAT questions usually test address translation, overload/PAT behaviour, static mappings and whether the right traffic is being translated. Read the interface direction and address terms carefully.
Key takeaway
NAT direction and interface roles matter as much as the IP address mapping. Inside/outside designation controls which traffic is translated.
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
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related 350-601 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
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FAQ
Storage Network — This question tests Storage Network — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
The correct answer is: N_Port ID Virtualization (NPIV) — Option B is correct: NPIV (N_Port ID Virtualization) assigns multiple FCIDs per physical port, enabling virtualized initiators. Option A is wrong because NPV (N_Port Virtualization) reduces domain IDs but does not allocate multiple N-port IDs per port. Option C is wrong because NPIV works on native FC, not just FCoE. Option D is wrong because NPIV is supported on both switches and HBAs.
Review the four NAT address types (inside local, inside global, outside local, outside global), PAT port overload, and static vs dynamic NAT use cases. Then practise related 350-601 NAT questions on configuration and troubleshooting.
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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Same concept, more angles
These questions test the same concept from different angles. Work through them to make sure you can recognise it however the exam phrases it.
Variation 1. Which feature allows a single Fibre Channel port to log in with multiple N-port IDs, enabling a host to connect to multiple targets through one port?
easyWhy C: NPIV (N_Port ID Virtualization) allows a single physical FC port to have multiple N_Port IDs, each with its own WWPN. This is used for virtualization. Option A is wrong because NPV is for switch-to-switch. Option B is wrong because VSANs are for segmentation. Option D is wrong because FCoE is a different protocol.
Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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