The correct answer is that the Fabric Interconnect learns server MAC addresses on the server-facing ports. This is true because in end-host mode, the UCS Fabric Interconnect behaves as a Layer-2 forwarding device that builds its forwarding table solely through MAC learning on the server-facing ports, rather than relying on Spanning Tree Protocol. Since STP is disabled on these ports to avoid blocking redundant links, the FI must dynamically learn server MAC addresses to correctly forward server-side traffic between the servers and the upstream network. On the Cisco DCCOR and CCNP Data Center Core 350-601 exam, this concept tests your understanding of how end-host mode differs from switching mode, where STP would be used. A common trap is assuming the FI uses STP on server ports or that it learns MAC addresses from the upstream network; remember, the FI only learns server MACs on the host side. Memory tip: “End-host mode = MAC learn on host ports, no STP.”
350-601 Compute Practice Question
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.
A UCS domain has two Fabric Interconnects in end-host mode. Which statement about server-side traffic is true?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
The Fabric Interconnect learns server MAC addresses on the server-facing ports.
In end-host mode, the Fabric Interconnect (FI) acts as a Layer-2 forwarding device that learns server MAC addresses on the server-facing ports to build its forwarding table. This is required because the FI does not run Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) on those ports; instead, it relies on MAC learning to forward traffic correctly between servers and the upstream network.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
Fabric Interconnects run IEEE 802.1D STP on the server-facing ports.
Each Fabric Interconnect independently forwards frames to the upstream switches using the same uplink.
Why it's wrong here
FIs coordinate; only one FI forwards traffic for a given source.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
The trap here is that candidates confuse end-host mode with switching mode, assuming STP is required on server ports, when in fact end-host mode disables STP and relies on MAC learning to maintain a loop-free topology.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Under the hood, end-host mode configures the FI as a transparent Layer-2 switch that learns MAC addresses from server traffic and pins each server's traffic to a specific uplink based on the server's MAC address. This design eliminates the need for STP on server ports and prevents loops by design, as the FI does not bridge traffic between its own uplinks. In a real-world scenario, if a server sends traffic with a new source MAC, the FI updates its MAC table and may re-pin the server to a different uplink, ensuring upstream switches see a consistent path.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
TExam Day Tips
→Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
→Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A help-desk technician troubleshoots why a newly connected PC cannot reach shared printers on the same floor. The cable is good, the switch port is active, but the PC is in VLAN 20 and the printers are in VLAN 10. The uplink trunk only allows VLAN 10. A trunk being up does not mean every VLAN crosses it.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Compute — This question tests Compute — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: The Fabric Interconnect learns server MAC addresses on the server-facing ports. — In end-host mode, the Fabric Interconnect (FI) acts as a Layer-2 forwarding device that learns server MAC addresses on the server-facing ports to build its forwarding table. This is required because the FI does not run Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) on those ports; instead, it relies on MAC learning to forward traffic correctly between servers and the upstream network.
What should I do if I get this 350-601 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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