Quick Answer
The correct method to reset a CIMC password without physical access is the CIMC XML API. This API provides a programmatic, network-accessible interface to the Cisco Integrated Management Controller, allowing authenticated XML requests sent over HTTPS to remotely execute administrative functions, including password resets, without requiring console or KVM access. On the Cisco DCCOR 350-601 exam, this scenario tests your understanding of out-of-band management protocols and the distinction between physical and remote administrative methods; a common trap is confusing the XML API with IPMI or the CIMC web GUI, both of which may require initial physical setup or local credentials. Remember the memory tip: “XML API, no hands-on key”—if the question emphasizes “no physical access” and “remote reset,” the XML API is the only correct choice because it operates purely over the network via structured data exchange.
This 350-601 practice question tests your understanding of compute. 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.
An administrator needs to reset the CIMC password on a Cisco UCS C-Series server without physical access. Which method can be used?
Use the front panel reset button
Why wrong: Requires physical presence, not remote.
Use UCS Manager
Why wrong: UCS Manager manages UCS blades, not C-Series rack servers.
Use the CIMC XML API
Allows remote management commands, including password change.
Connect via serial console during boot
Why wrong: Requires physical serial connection.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Use the CIMC XML API
The CIMC XML API allows remote management of Cisco UCS C-Series servers, including password resets, without physical access. This API provides a programmatic interface to CIMC functions, enabling administrators to send authenticated XML requests over HTTPS to reset the CIMC password. Physical access is not required because the API operates over the network, making it the correct method for this scenario.
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.
Use the front panel reset button
Why it's wrong here
Requires physical presence, not remote.
Use UCS Manager
Why it's wrong here
UCS Manager manages UCS blades, not C-Series rack servers.
Use the CIMC XML API
Why this is correct
Allows remote management commands, including password change.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Connect via serial console during boot
Why it's wrong here
Requires physical serial connection.
Common exam traps
Cisco often tests the distinction between UCS Manager (for B-Series and integrated environments) and CIMC (for C-Series standalone servers), leading candidates to incorrectly assume UCS Manager can manage C-Series servers directly.
Detailed technical explanation
The CIMC XML API uses a REST-like interface over HTTPS, where commands are encapsulated in XML payloads and authenticated via session cookies or API keys. For password resets, the API sends a POST request to the /api/ endpoint with an XML document containing the new password hash, which CIMC applies to the local user database. This method is commonly used in automated provisioning and remote management scripts, especially in data centers where servers are deployed without direct console access.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the 350-601 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
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FAQ
Compute — This question tests Compute — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Use the CIMC XML API — The CIMC XML API allows remote management of Cisco UCS C-Series servers, including password resets, without physical access. This API provides a programmatic interface to CIMC functions, enabling administrators to send authenticated XML requests over HTTPS to reset the CIMC password. Physical access is not required because the API operates over the network, making it the correct method for this scenario.
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
This 350-601 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 350-601 exam.
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