hardMultiple SelectObjective-mapped
300-410 Practice Question: Which TWO configuration steps are required to…
Which TWO configuration steps are required to enable IPsec site-to-site VPN with IKEv2 on a Cisco router? (Choose TWO.)
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between IKEv1 and IKEv2 commands, so the trap here is that candidates mistakenly select 'crypto isakmp policy' (IKEv1) instead of the IKEv2-specific 'crypto ikev2 proposal' and 'crypto ikev2 keyring' commands.
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
✓
Configure an IKEv2 keyring with the pre-shared key.
An IKEv2 keyring stores the pre-shared key (PSK) used for authenticating the remote peer during IKEv2 SA establishment. Without a keyring, the router has no local credential to present or verify against the peer. Option B is correct because an IKEv2 proposal defines the mandatory encryption (e.g., AES-256) and integrity (e.g., SHA-256) algorithms that both peers must agree on for the IKEv2 Phase 1 (IKE SA) negotiation.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Configure an IKEv2 keyring with the pre-shared key.
Why this is correct
The keyring stores the pre-shared key used for authentication in IKEv2.
- ✓
Configure an IKEv2 proposal specifying encryption and integrity algorithms.
Why this is correct
The IKEv2 proposal defines the cryptographic parameters for phase 1.
- ✗
Configure a crypto isakmp policy for phase 1.
Why it's wrong here
Crypto isakmp policy is used for IKEv1, not IKEv2.
- ✗
Configure an IKEv2 profile and bind it to the crypto map.
Why it's wrong here
While an IKEv2 profile is often used, it is not strictly required; the keyring and proposal are essential.
- ✗
Configure the 'crypto ipsec transform-set' command.
Why it's wrong here
Transform sets are used for phase 2, not phase 1, and are required but not among the 'steps to enable' in the context of the question.
Quick reference
VPN Protocol Comparison
| Protocol | Port | Encryption | Authentication | Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IKEv2 / IPsec | UDP 500 / 4500 | AES-256 | Certificates / PSK | Site-to-site & remote access |
| SSL / TLS VPN | TCP 443 | TLS 1.3 | Certificates / MFA | Clientless remote access |
| L2TP / IPsec | UDP 1701 | AES (IPsec) | PSK / Certificates | Legacy remote access |
| WireGuard | UDP 51820 | ChaCha20 | Public keys | Modern high-performance VPN |
| PPTP | TCP 1723 | MPPE (weak) | MS-CHAPv2 | Legacy — avoid in production |
PPTP is considered insecure. IKEv2/IPsec and SSL VPN are the current recommended options.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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