350-501 Architecture Practice Question
A service provider is implementing EVPN with MPLS data plane. Which encapsulation type is used in MPLS EVPN to carry Ethernet frames across the MPLS network?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between the EVPN control plane (RFC 7432) and the MPLS data-plane encapsulation (RFC 8214), leading candidates to incorrectly select 'EVPN encapsulation defined by IETF RFC 7432' as the encapsulation type.
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
✓
MPLS label stack with a control word for Ethernet frames
In MPLS EVPN, Ethernet frames are carried across the MPLS network using an MPLS label stack that includes a control word. The control word (4 bytes) is inserted between the MPLS label stack and the Ethernet frame to prevent misordering and to enable proper frame delineation. This encapsulation is defined in RFC 8214 (formerly RFC 7432) and is distinct from older EoMPLS or simple IP/MPLS tunneling.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Ethernet over MPLS (EoMPLS) with VLAN encapsulation
Why it's wrong here
EoMPLS is an older technology; EVPN uses MPLS labels with a control word.
- ✓
MPLS label stack with a control word for Ethernet frames
Why this is correct
The control word is used to preserve the Ethernet frame integrity.
- ✗
EVPN encapsulation defined by IETF RFC 7432
Why it's wrong here
RFC 7432 defines the control plane, not data plane encapsulation details.
- ✗
IP/MPLS tunnel with Ethernet frame inside
Why it's wrong here
EVPN over MPLS does not use IP tunnels; it uses MPLS label stacking.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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