easyMultiple ChoiceObjective-mapped
350-701 Practice Question: Implement network access control for IoT devices…
A company wants to implement network access control for IoT devices that do not support 802.1X. Which Cisco ISE feature can be used to grant these devices network access based on their MAC address?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that Profiling (Option C) can grant network access, but profiling is a classification tool, not an authentication method; candidates confuse the two because profiling results can influence authorization policies after MAB or 802.1X authentication has occurred.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
MAB
MAC Authentication Bypass (MAB) is the correct Cisco ISE feature because it allows network access for devices that cannot perform 802.1X, such as IoT devices. MAB works by using the device’s MAC address as the authentication credential; ISE checks the MAC address against an allowed list (e.g., endpoint identity store) and grants or denies access accordingly. This is the standard fallback mechanism for non-802.1X-capable endpoints in a wired or wireless network.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
MAB
Why this is correct
Correct. MAB uses MAC address for authentication.
- ✗
Guest access
Why it's wrong here
Guest access is for visitors, not for IoT devices.
- ✗
Profiling
Why it's wrong here
Profiling identifies device type, but does not grant access by itself.
- ✗
Posture assessment
Why it's wrong here
Posture assessment checks compliance, but requires an agent or 802.1X.
Quick reference
AAA Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Port(s) | Encryption | Transport | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RADIUS | 1812 / 1813 | Password only | UDP | Network access control |
| TACACS+ | 49 | Full packet | TCP | Device administration |
| Diameter | 3868 | Full session | TCP / SCTP | Carrier / mobile networks |
| 802.1X | — | EAP-based | Layer 2 | Port-based access control |
TACACS+ encrypts the entire packet; RADIUS only encrypts the password field — a key exam distinction.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This 350-701 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 350-701 exam.