350-501 Networking Practice Question
In an MPLS network, a PE router receives a VPNv4 route from a route reflector. The route is not being installed in the VRF table. Which condition could cause this?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between the Route Distinguisher (which makes prefixes unique) and the Route Target (which controls import/export), leading candidates to incorrectly blame the RD when the RT is the actual filter.
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
✓
The route target does not match the VRF import map.
A VPNv4 route is installed into a VRF table only if its Route Target (RT) matches an import statement in the VRF's route-target import list or import map. If the RT does not match, the PE router will not import the route into the VRF, even though the route is valid in the BGP VPNv4 table. This is the most common cause for a VPNv4 route being present in BGP but missing from the VRF.
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 route target does not match the VRF import map.
Why this is correct
VRF import filters based on route targets; if mismatch, the route is not installed.
- ✗
The MPLS label is missing.
Why it's wrong here
Missing label would prevent forwarding but the route can still be installed.
- ✗
The route distinguisher is incorrect.
Why it's wrong here
RD is used to make routes unique, not for import filtering.
- ✗
The next-hop is unreachable.
Why it's wrong here
While unreachable next-hop prevents forwarding, the route may still be installed in the VRF table if the import is successful.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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