Quick Answer
The answer is JSON-RPC over certificate-based TLS, which is the protocol used by the pxGrid controller in Cisco ISE for sharing contextual data. This is correct because pxGrid requires a secure, lightweight, and real-time communication channel that leverages JSON-RPC for structured data exchange, while certificate-based TLS ensures mutual authentication and encryption between ISE and the pxGrid controller. On the Cisco SCOR / CCNP Security Core 350-701 exam, this concept tests your understanding of how ISE integrates with other security tools—such as firewalls and endpoint detection systems—via the pxGrid framework. A common trap is confusing pxGrid with REST API integrations, but remember that pxGrid specifically uses JSON-RPC over TLS, not REST. Also, avoid mixing it with authentication protocols like RADIUS or TACACS+, which serve different purposes. Memory tip: think "JSON over TLS for context sharing" to distinguish pxGrid from other ISE communication methods.
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.
Which protocol does Cisco ISE use to communicate with the pxGrid controller for sharing contextual data?
JSON-RPC over certificate-based TLS
pxGrid uses JSON-RPC over TLS with mutual certificate authentication.
REST API over HTTPS
Why wrong: REST API is used for other ISE integrations, not pxGrid.
TACACS+
Why wrong: TACACS+ is for device administration, not pxGrid.
RADIUS
Why wrong: RADIUS is for authentication, not pxGrid.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
JSON-RPC over certificate-based TLS
Option D is correct. pxGrid uses JSON-RPC over certificate-based TLS for secure communication. Option A is incorrect because REST API is used for other integrations but not pxGrid. Options B and C are authentication protocols, not used for pxGrid.
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.
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.
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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: JSON-RPC over certificate-based TLS — Option D is correct. pxGrid uses JSON-RPC over certificate-based TLS for secure communication. Option A is incorrect because REST API is used for other integrations but not pxGrid. Options B and C are authentication protocols, not used for pxGrid.
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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