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350-701 Practice Question: Is configuring Cisco TrustSec on a switch to…
A network engineer is configuring Cisco TrustSec on a switch to enforce segmentation. Which THREE components are required for TrustSec to assign a Security Group Tag (SGT) to a user after successful authentication via ISE?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that SGT classification on the switch is a prerequisite for SGT assignment, when in fact classification is the downstream action that applies the tag after ISE has assigned it via RADIUS and CoA.
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
✓
802.1X authentication
B is correct because 802.1X authentication is the foundational mechanism that initiates the identity-based access control flow. When a user connects to the switch port, 802.1X (using EAP over LAN) authenticates the user against ISE, which then triggers the assignment of a Security Group Tag (SGT) via RADIUS attributes. Without 802.1X, the switch has no user identity to classify, and TrustSec cannot enforce segmentation at the user level.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
SGT classification on the switch
Why it's wrong here
SGT classification is the result, not a component; it is done after receiving the SGT.
- ✓
802.1X authentication
Why this is correct
802.1X is typically used to authenticate the user before SGT assignment.
- ✓
RADIUS communication between ISE and switch
Why this is correct
ISE uses RADIUS to send SGT information to the switch.
- ✓
Change of Authorization (CoA)
Why this is correct
CoA allows ISE to dynamically change the SGT after authentication.
- ✗
VLAN assignment
Why it's wrong here
VLAN is traditional but not required for TrustSec; SGT is used instead.
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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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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