The best load-balancing algorithm for an FC port channel with multiple LUNs is the per-exchange method, which uses the source FC ID (OXID) and destination FC ID (RXID). This algorithm distributes I/O at the exchange level, meaning each individual SCSI command and its associated data frames are sent across a different member link, even when all traffic originates from the same initiator and targets the same storage array. Because multiple LUNs under a single target generate many concurrent exchanges, this approach ensures that no single link becomes saturated while others remain idle. On the Cisco DCCOR 350-601 exam, this concept tests your understanding of Fibre Channel load-balancing granularity—many candidates mistakenly choose source/destination FC ID alone, which only hashes at the session level and fails to spread I/O across LUNs. Remember the trap: per-exchange (OXID/RXID) is the only method that breaks up traffic between the same initiator-target pair. Memory tip: think “OXID = per-exchange” as in “each exchange gets its own lane.”
350-601 Storage Network Practice Question
This 350-601 practice question tests your understanding of storage network. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. 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.
On a Cisco MDS 9700, an engineer configures an FC port channel with 4 member interfaces. The connected storage array also supports port channels. Which load-balancing algorithm provides the best distribution of I/O when the array uses multiple LUNs per target?
Clue words in this question
Noticing these words before you look at the options changes how you read each choice.
Clue: "best"
Why it matters: Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Source FC ID (OXID) and destination FC ID (RXID)
Option B is correct because per-exchange load balancing distributes I/Os between same initiator-target pair, ideal for multiple LUNs. Other options may not distribute well.
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
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Source ID (SID) and Destination ID (DID)
Why it's wrong here
This could cause polarization if single initiator to single target.
✗
Source and destination port ID
Why it's wrong here
Port ID load balancing is similar to SID/DID and may cause polarization.
✓
Source FC ID (OXID) and destination FC ID (RXID)
Why this is correct
Using exchange IDs (OXID/RXID) provides per-exchange load balancing, spreading I/O across LUNs better.
Clue confirmation
The clue word "best" in the question point toward this answer.
Related concept
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
✗
Source and destination WWPN
Why it's wrong here
WWPN load balancing treats all traffic between pair as single flow.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: NAT rules depend on direction and matching traffic
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.
Trap categories for this question
Similar concept trap
Port ID load balancing is similar to SID/DID and may cause polarization.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
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.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
PAT allows many inside hosts to share one public address using ports.
Inside local and inside global describe the private and translated addresses.
NAT ACLs identify traffic for translation, not always security filtering.
TExam Day Tips
→Identify inside and outside interfaces first.
→Check whether the scenario needs static NAT, dynamic NAT or PAT.
→Do not confuse NAT matching ACLs with normal packet-filtering intent.
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
How this comes up in practice
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
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
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.
Storage Network — This question tests Storage Network — Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: Source FC ID (OXID) and destination FC ID (RXID) — Option B is correct because per-exchange load balancing distributes I/Os between same initiator-target pair, ideal for multiple LUNs. Other options may not distribute well.
What should I do if I get this 350-601 question wrong?
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.
Are there clue words in this question I should notice?
Yes — watch for: "best". Signals that multiple options may be partially correct. Choose the option that most directly solves the exact problem described, not the one that sounds most complete.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Static NAT maps one inside address to one outside address.
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