The answer is 802.1Q tag (inline tagging), SXP (SGT Exchange Protocol), and VXLAN with group-based policy (GBP). These three methods propagate Security Group Tags across a network by embedding the SGT directly into the Layer 2 frame header, using a dedicated TCP-based protocol for non-TrustSec-capable devices, or encapsulating the tag within the VXLAN Group Policy ID field for overlay fabrics. On the Cisco DCCOR 350-601 exam, this question tests your understanding of how TrustSec enforces micro-segmentation in both traditional and fabric environments, often appearing as a multi-select item where candidates mistakenly choose CDP or LLDP. A common trap is assuming that only inline tagging or SXP are valid, but VXLAN GBP is explicitly supported for scalable policy propagation in ACI or VXLAN EVPN designs. Remember the mnemonic “S.I.V.”—SXP, Inline, VXLAN—to recall the three propagation methods quickly.
350-601 Security Practice Question
This 350-601 practice question tests your understanding of security. Match the stated requirement to the specific cloud service, access model, or configuration option — many options are valid in isolation but not for this scenario. 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.
Which THREE methods can be used to propagate Cisco TrustSec Security Group Tags (SGTs) across a network? (Choose three.)
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
VXLAN with group-based policy
VXLAN with group-based policy (GBP) is a valid method for propagating SGTs because it embeds the SGT into the VXLAN Group Policy ID (GPID) field within the VXLAN header. This allows the SGT to be carried across an overlay network, enabling scalable, policy-based segmentation in a fabric environment without requiring inline tagging or SXP.
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.
✓
VXLAN with group-based policy
Why this is correct
VXLAN can carry SGTs in the Group Policy ID (GPI) field.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✓
SXP (SGT Exchange Protocol)
Why this is correct
SXP is a widely used protocol for exchanging SGTs between TrustSec domains.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✓
802.1Q tag (inline tagging)
Why this is correct
SGTs can be embedded in the 802.1Q tag of Ethernet frames as inline tags.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
✗
CDP (Cisco Discovery Protocol)
Why it's wrong here
CDP does not support SGT propagation; it's used for device discovery.
✗
LLDP
Why it's wrong here
LLDP is a standard neighbor discovery protocol, not for SGT propagation.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Cisco often tests the distinction between discovery protocols (CDP/LLDP) and actual SGT propagation mechanisms; the trap here is assuming that any Cisco proprietary protocol can carry SGTs, when in fact only SXP, inline tagging, and VXLAN GBP are valid.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
Cisco TrustSec uses SGTs to enforce role-based access control. VXLAN GBP leverages the VXLAN Group Policy ID (24-bit field) to carry the SGT end-to-end across the overlay, which is particularly useful in ACI or SD-Access fabrics. SXP (RFC 5424-like) exports SGT-to-IP bindings over TCP (port 64999), while inline tagging (802.1Q) modifies the Ethernet frame to insert a Cisco-specific SGT tag (C-Tag or S-Tag) between the source MAC and the EtherType, requiring compatible hardware.
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 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
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.
Security — This question tests Security — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: VXLAN with group-based policy — VXLAN with group-based policy (GBP) is a valid method for propagating SGTs because it embeds the SGT into the VXLAN Group Policy ID (GPID) field within the VXLAN header. This allows the SGT to be carried across an overlay network, enabling scalable, policy-based segmentation in a fabric environment without requiring inline tagging or SXP.
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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