The answer is that LDP distributes labels for all IGP routes in the routing table, making it the correct choice alongside the fact that TDP is deprecated. LDP, or Label Distribution Protocol, automatically assigns labels to every route learned via an Interior Gateway Protocol like OSPF or IS-IS, using the IGP next-hop to build its label forwarding table. On the Cisco SPCOR 350-501 exam, this concept tests your understanding of how MPLS label distribution mechanisms differ: LDP handles dynamic label assignment for standard IP forwarding, while RSVP-TE reserves labels specifically for traffic-engineered paths. A common trap is confusing TDP, Cisco’s proprietary predecessor to LDP, which is now deprecated and not used in modern MPLS networks. Remember the memory tip: LDP labels all IGP routes, RSVP-TE labels only TE tunnels, and TDP is history.
350-501 MPLS and Segment Routing Practice Question
This 350-501 practice question tests your understanding of mpls and segment routing. 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 two statements about MPLS label distribution are correct? (Choose two)
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
LDP can establish sessions with non-directly connected neighbors using targeted LDP.
LDP distributes labels for IGP routes and supports targeted sessions for non-directly connected neighbors. TDP is deprecated, RSVP-TE allocates labels for TE, and LDP uses IGP next-hop.
Key principle: OSPF neighbour adjacency depends on matching area, hello/dead timers, network type, and authentication — IP reachability alone is not enough.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
RSVP-TE allocates labels based on LDP.
Why it's wrong here
RSVP-TE allocates labels for TE tunnels independently of LDP.
✓
LDP can establish sessions with non-directly connected neighbors using targeted LDP.
Why this is correct
Targeted LDP allows LDP sessions between non-adjacent routers.
TDP was proprietary but is now deprecated; LDP is the standard.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: OSPF can fail even when IP connectivity looks correct
OSPF neighbour formation depends on matching areas, timers, network type, authentication and passive-interface behaviour. Do not choose an answer only because the devices can ping.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
OSPF questions usually test the details that control adjacency and route selection. Read the neighbour state, area, router ID and interface configuration before deciding what is wrong.
KKey Concepts to Remember
OSPF neighbours must agree on key parameters.
Router ID selection can affect neighbour relationships and LSDB output.
OSPF cost influences the preferred path.
A route can appear in OSPF information but not become the installed route.
TExam Day Tips
→Check area mismatch first when OSPF adjacency fails.
→Review passive interfaces when a network is advertised but no neighbour forms.
→Use show ip ospf neighbor and show ip route clues carefully.
Key takeaway
OSPF neighbour adjacency depends on matching area, hello/dead timers, network type, and authentication — IP reachability alone is not enough.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A network engineer at a university connects two campus buildings via a fibre link. Both routers run OSPF, but no adjacency forms — even though both routers can ping each other. The engineer finds one router is in area 0 and the other in area 1. OSPF adjacency requires matching area numbers, hello/dead timers, and network type. IP reachability alone is not enough.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review OSPF neighbour requirements — matching area type, hello and dead timers, network type, stub flags, and authentication. Study show ip ospf neighbor states (INIT, 2-WAY, FULL). Then practise related 350-501 OSPF questions on adjacency and route selection.
MPLS and Segment Routing — This question tests MPLS and Segment Routing — OSPF neighbours must agree on key parameters..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: LDP can establish sessions with non-directly connected neighbors using targeted LDP. — LDP distributes labels for IGP routes and supports targeted sessions for non-directly connected neighbors. TDP is deprecated, RSVP-TE allocates labels for TE, and LDP uses IGP next-hop.
What should I do if I get this 350-501 question wrong?
Review OSPF neighbour requirements — matching area type, hello and dead timers, network type, stub flags, and authentication. Study show ip ospf neighbor states (INIT, 2-WAY, FULL). Then practise related 350-501 OSPF questions on adjacency and route selection.
What is the key concept behind this question?
OSPF neighbours must agree on key parameters.
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Question Discussion
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