The answer is that the SGT classification is not applied to the correct VLAN. In a Cisco TrustSec environment using manual CTS with a static policy of SGT 10, the switch must explicitly map that SGT to the specific VLAN where the endpoints reside; if the classification is misapplied to a different VLAN, the switch will not properly tag the traffic, causing it to be denied by default under the security group access control list (SGACL). This scenario tests your understanding of TrustSec SGT classification and VLAN misconfiguration, a common pitfall on the Cisco SCOR 350-701 exam where candidates often confuse static SGT assignment with IP-to-SGT mapping or SGT propagation. A key trap is assuming that a static policy alone guarantees correct classification, but the VLAN association is the critical link. Memory tip: think of the VLAN as the “address” for the SGT label—if the address is wrong, the packet gets lost.
350-701 Practice Question: Secure Network Access, Visibility and Enforcement
This 350-701 practice question tests your understanding of secure network access, visibility and enforcement. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. 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.
In a Cisco TrustSec environment, a network administrator observes that traffic between two endpoints in the same SGT group is being denied. The relevant switch has CTS configured with 'cts manual' and 'policy static sgt 10'. What is the most probable cause?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
The SGT classification is not applied to the correct VLAN.
Option D is correct. If the SGT classification is not applied to the correct VLAN, the switch may not classify traffic correctly, leading to default denial. Option A is incorrect because with manual CTS, IP-to-SGT mapping is done via static configuration or RADIUS, and missing mapping would cause unknown SGT. Option B is irrelevant to traffic forwarding. Option C is incorrect because SGT propagation is not needed for same-switch communication.
Key principle: Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✓
The SGT classification is not applied to the correct VLAN.
Why this is correct
If the VLAN on the switchport is not mapped to the SGT, the endpoint may be classified incorrectly, causing denial.
Related concept
Authentication checks who the user is.
✗
The SGT is not propagated to the downstream switch.
Why it's wrong here
SGT propagation affects inter-switch traffic, not intra-switch traffic.
✗
The endpoint's NAC agent is not reporting posture.
Why it's wrong here
Posture is not directly related to SGT-based forwarding.
✗
The IP-to-SGT mapping is missing on the switch.
Why it's wrong here
Missing mapping would result in unknown SGT, not necessarily denial between same SGT hosts.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: authentication is not authorization
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
How to think about this question
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.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Authentication checks who the user is.
Authorization controls what the user is allowed to do after login.
Privilege levels affect access to EXEC and configuration commands.
AAA, TACACS+ and RADIUS can separate login success from command access.
TExam Day Tips
→Do not assume successful login means full administrative access.
→Look for words such as cannot enter configuration mode, privilege level, authorization or command access.
→Separate login problems from permission problems before choosing the answer.
Key takeaway
Authentication proves identity; authorization controls what that identity can do after login. Both must work for full privileged access.
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.
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 — This question tests Secure Network Access, Visibility and Enforcement — Authentication checks who the user is..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: The SGT classification is not applied to the correct VLAN. — Option D is correct. If the SGT classification is not applied to the correct VLAN, the switch may not classify traffic correctly, leading to default denial. Option A is incorrect because with manual CTS, IP-to-SGT mapping is done via static configuration or RADIUS, and missing mapping would cause unknown SGT. Option B is irrelevant to traffic forwarding. Option C is incorrect because SGT propagation is not needed for same-switch communication.
What should I do if I get this 350-701 question wrong?
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.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Authentication checks who the user is.
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Question Discussion
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