350-401 Infrastructure Practice Question
A network technician is configuring a new Cisco switch and needs to assign the management IP address to VLAN 1. Which command sequence is correct?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many exam-takers confuse VLAN configuration mode with VLAN interface configuration mode; IP addresses are assigned to the SVI, not the VLAN database.
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
✓
interface vlan 1; ip address 10.1.1.1 255.255.255.0; no shutdown
The correct method to assign a management IP address on a Cisco switch is to create or use the VLAN 1 interface (SVI) and assign the IP address there. The sequence 'interface vlan 1', then 'ip address', then 'no shutdown' is standard. Other options either target physical interfaces or use incorrect command modes.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
interface vlan 1; ip address 10.1.1.1 255.255.255.0; no shutdown
Why this is correct
To assign an IP address to the management VLAN, you enter interface configuration mode for VLAN 1 using 'interface vlan 1', then assign the IP address with 'ip address', and ensure the interface is up with 'no shutdown'. This is the standard method for configuring a management IP on a Cisco switch. VLAN 1 is the default management VLAN.
- ✗
ip address 10.1.1.1 255.255.255.0; interface vlan 1; no shutdown
Why it's wrong here
The 'ip address' command is not valid in global configuration mode; it must be entered under interface configuration mode. The sequence is incorrect because it attempts to assign an IP address before entering the VLAN interface. The correct order is to enter interface vlan 1 first, then assign the IP address.
- ✗
vlan 1; ip address 10.1.1.1 255.255.255.0; no shutdown
Why it's wrong here
The 'vlan 1' command enters VLAN configuration mode, where you can name the VLAN or set other parameters, but you cannot assign an IP address there. IP addresses are assigned to VLAN interfaces (SVI), not to the VLAN itself. This sequence would not configure the management IP.
- ✗
interface gigabitethernet0/1; ip address 10.1.1.1 255.255.255.0; no shutdown
Why it's wrong here
Configuring an IP address directly on a physical interface is not typical for switch management; physical switch ports are Layer 2 by default and do not accept IP addresses unless they are routed ports. This would not provide management access to the switch via VLAN 1. The correct method is to use the VLAN interface.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official Cisco exam blueprint
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