350-501 Architecture Practice Question
In Segment Routing over IPv6 (SRv6), what is the function of the SRH (Segment Routing Header)?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between the SRH's core function (carrying the segment list) and ancillary features like OAM or flow label usage, so candidates may incorrectly associate the SRH with monitoring or encoding mechanisms that are separate from its primary role.
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
✓
It contains the segment list (ordered list of SIDs)
The Segment Routing Header (SRH) is a new IPv6 extension header defined in RFC 8754 that carries an ordered list of Segment Identifiers (SIDs). When a packet is forwarded along a segment-routed path, the SRH encodes the explicit path by listing each segment (node or adjacency SID) in sequence, and the active segment is updated as the packet traverses each hop. This allows the source node to steer packets through a specific path without intermediate nodes needing to maintain per-flow state.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
It replaces the IPv6 header to reduce overhead
Why it's wrong here
SRH is an extension header, not a replacement.
- ✓
It contains the segment list (ordered list of SIDs)
Why this is correct
SRH contains a list of SIDs that define the forwarding path.
- ✗
It provides OAM capabilities for path monitoring
Why it's wrong here
OAM can be carried but SRH's primary function is to list SIDs.
- ✗
It uses the IPv6 flow label to encode the path
Why it's wrong here
Flow label is used for load balancing, not segment list.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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