NSE7 Advanced Networking and SD-WAN Practice Question
A network engineer is troubleshooting an OSPF multi-area setup on a FortiGate. The FortiGate is an ABR (Area Border Router) connecting area 0 and area 1. The engineer notices that routes from area 1 are not being advertised into area 0. Which TWO of the following are possible causes? (Select TWO.)
⚠ Common exam trap
A common mix-up: candidates assume missing 'redistribute connected' or static route interference is the cause, but OSPF inter-area route propagation relies solely on proper adjacency formation and ABR functionality, not redistribution or administrative distance.
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
✓
OSPF is not enabled on the interface in area 1, or the network type is mismatched
If OSPF is not enabled on the interface in area 1, the FortiGate cannot form adjacencies or exchange routes within that area. A network type mismatch (e.g., broadcast vs. point-to-point) can prevent neighbor relationships from forming, which would block Type 3 LSA generation by the ABR. Without OSPF running correctly on the area 1 interface, the ABR cannot inject area 1 routes into area 0.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
OSPF is not enabled on the interface in area 1, or the network type is mismatched
Why this is correct
Without OSPF on the interface, no adjacency forms, and routes are not learned.
- ✗
The 'redistribute connected' command is missing
Why it's wrong here
Connected routes are advertised as type 3 LSAs by default when OSPF is enabled on the interface; redistribution is not needed.
- ✓
The FortiGate does not have a direct connection to area 0
Why this is correct
An ABR must be connected to area 0; without it, routes cannot be advertised between areas.
- ✗
The FortiGate has a static route to area 1 that overrides OSPF
Why it's wrong here
Static routes do not prevent OSPF advertisement.
- ✗
The administrative distance for OSPF is set too high
Why it's wrong here
AD affects route preference, not advertisement.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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