The answer is the Ethernet Segment Identifier (ESI) and the EVPN Instance (EVI). These two parameters must match between the two endpoints of an EVPN VPWS pseudowire because the ESI uniquely identifies the multihomed segment or single-homed attachment circuit, while the EVI defines the Layer 2 VPN instance that binds the pseudowire together; without both matching, the control plane cannot establish a point-to-point connection. On the Cisco SPCOR 350-501 exam, this concept tests your understanding of EVPN VPWS endpoint matching, often appearing as a trap where candidates confuse route-target or VLAN IDs as required matches—remember that VLANs can differ across endpoints, and route-targets govern import/export policies, not pseudowire formation. A common memory tip is to think “ESI and EVI, the two E’s that make the VPWS agree,” ensuring you avoid selecting IMET or route-target options.
350-501 Architecture Practice Question
This 350-501 practice question tests your understanding of architecture. 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.
When configuring EVPN VPWS, which TWO parameters must match between the two endpoints of the pseudowire?
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
EVI (Ethernet VPN Instance)
Options A and B are correct. EVI and ESI must match to form a pseudowire. Option C (IMET) is used for multicast but not for VPWS. Option D is not required to match; VLANIDs can differ. Option E (route-target) is used for route import/export but not mandatory for VPWS endpoint matching.
Key principle: A trunk being up does not mean the VLAN is allowed across it. Always verify the allowed VLAN list and whether the VLAN exists on both switches.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✓
EVI (Ethernet VPN Instance)
Why this is correct
The EVI must be identical on both PEs to associate the pseudowire with the same EVPN instance.
Related concept
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
✗
Route-target
Why it's wrong here
Route-target is used for BGP route import/export but not directly for pseudowire endpoint matching.
✓
ESI (Ethernet Segment Identifier)
Why this is correct
The ESI should match for the same Ethernet segment; a single ESI is used for the VPWS service.
Related concept
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
✗
VLAN ID of the attachment circuit
Why it's wrong here
VLAN translation can occur; matching VLAN IDs is not mandatory.
✗
IMET group address
Why it's wrong here
IMET is used in EVPN for multicast and is not required for VPWS.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: an active trunk can still block the VLAN you need
A trunk being up does not prove every VLAN is crossing it. Check allowed VLAN lists, native VLAN mismatch, VLAN existence and access-port assignment.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
VLAN questions usually combine access-port and trunking clues. The key is to identify whether the issue is local to one switchport, caused by the trunk, or caused by the VLAN not existing where it needs to exist.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
Trunk ports carry multiple VLANs between switches.
Allowed VLAN lists decide which VLANs can cross a trunk.
Native VLAN mismatch can create confusing symptoms.
TExam Day Tips
→Use show vlan brief to verify access VLANs.
→Use show interfaces trunk to verify trunk state and allowed VLANs.
→Do not treat every same-VLAN issue as a routing problem.
Key takeaway
A trunk being up does not mean the VLAN is allowed across it. Always verify the allowed VLAN list and whether the VLAN exists on both switches.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A help-desk technician troubleshoots why a newly connected PC cannot reach shared printers on the same floor. The cable is good, the switch port is active, but the PC is in VLAN 20 and the printers are in VLAN 10. The uplink trunk only allows VLAN 10. A trunk being up does not mean every VLAN crosses it.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Review VLAN allowed lists, native VLAN mismatch detection, and how to verify VLAN membership with show vlan brief and show interfaces trunk. Then practise related 350-501 questions on switching, trunking, and access-port configuration.
Architecture — This question tests Architecture — Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: EVI (Ethernet VPN Instance) — Options A and B are correct. EVI and ESI must match to form a pseudowire. Option C (IMET) is used for multicast but not for VPWS. Option D is not required to match; VLAN IDs can differ. Option E (route-target) is used for route import/export but not mandatory for VPWS endpoint matching.
What should I do if I get this 350-501 question wrong?
Review VLAN allowed lists, native VLAN mismatch detection, and how to verify VLAN membership with show vlan brief and show interfaces trunk. Then practise related 350-501 questions on switching, trunking, and access-port configuration.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Access ports place end devices into a single VLAN.
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