Quick Answer
The answer is SXP (SGT Exchange Protocol), which is the correct protocol for propagating Security Group Tags between switches in a Cisco TrustSec deployment. SXP is specifically designed to carry SGT mappings from a tagging device, such as a switch or Cisco ISE, to downstream devices that do not support inline SGT tagging in the data plane, ensuring consistent segmentation enforcement across the network. On the Cisco SCOR / CCNP Security Core 350-701 exam, this question tests your understanding of TrustSec control-plane protocols, often appearing as a distractor where RADIUS (which carries SGTs in AV pairs for authentication) or CDP (a discovery protocol) are incorrectly chosen. A common trap is confusing SXP with inline tagging—remember that SXP is the out-of-band propagation method for legacy or non-TrustSec-capable hardware. Memory tip: SXP = SGT eXchange Protocol, and think “eXchange between switches” to keep it straight from RADIUS or CDP.
This 350-701 practice question tests your understanding of secure network access, visibility and enforcement. 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 company uses Cisco ISE for network access control. They have deployed TrustSec and want to enforce segmentation using Security Group Tags (SGTs). The network team reports that SGTs are not being propagated correctly. Which protocol is responsible for SGT propagation between switches?
NETCONF
Why wrong: NETCONF is a network management protocol, not for SGT propagation.
RADIUS
Why wrong: RADIUS can carry SGT in AV pairs but is not used for switch-to-switch propagation.
CDP
Why wrong: CDP is for discovering neighbor devices, not for SGT propagation.
SXP
SXP is the protocol designed to exchange SGT mappings between Cisco devices.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
SXP
Option A is correct because SXP (SGT Exchange Protocol) is used for SGT propagation between devices that do not support inline tagging. Option B is incorrect because RADIUS carries SGT in AV pairs but is not used for switch-to-switch propagation. Option C is incorrect because NETCONF is a management protocol. Option D is incorrect because CDP is for device discovery, not SGT propagation.
Key principle: Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
NETCONF
Why it's wrong here
NETCONF is a network management protocol, not for SGT propagation.
RADIUS
Why it's wrong here
RADIUS can carry SGT in AV pairs but is not used for switch-to-switch propagation.
CDP
Why it's wrong here
CDP is for discovering neighbor devices, not for SGT propagation.
SXP
Why this is correct
SXP is the protocol designed to exchange SGT mappings between Cisco devices.
Related concept
Authentication checks who the user is.
Common exam traps
Logging in proves the user can authenticate. It does not automatically mean the user is allowed to enter privileged or configuration mode. Watch for AAA authorization, privilege level and command authorization details.
Detailed technical explanation
This kind of question is testing the difference between identity and permission. A user may successfully log in to a router because authentication is working, but still fail to enter configuration mode because authorization is missing, misconfigured or mapped to a lower privilege level.
Key takeaway
Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
Real-world example
A junior network technician can log in to a core router but cannot reach the enable prompt or configuration mode. The AAA server is authenticating the login — but the authorisation policy only grants privilege level 1, not 15. Authentication (who you are) is working; authorisation (what you can do) is not.
What to study next
Review Cisco AAA concepts — authentication, authorization, and accounting. Study privilege levels (0–15), command authorization under TACACS+, and how RADIUS differs. Then practise related 350-701 questions on access control and AAA configuration.
Secure Network Access, Visibility and Enforcement — study guide chapter
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FAQ
Secure Network Access, Visibility and Enforcement — This question tests Secure Network Access, Visibility and Enforcement — Authentication checks who the user is..
The correct answer is: SXP — Option A is correct because SXP (SGT Exchange Protocol) is used for SGT propagation between devices that do not support inline tagging. Option B is incorrect because RADIUS carries SGT in AV pairs but is not used for switch-to-switch propagation. Option C is incorrect because NETCONF is a management protocol. Option D is incorrect because CDP is for device discovery, not SGT propagation.
Review Cisco AAA concepts — authentication, authorization, and accounting. Study privilege levels (0–15), command authorization under TACACS+, and how RADIUS differs. Then practise related 350-701 questions on access control and AAA configuration.
Authentication checks who the user is.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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