Architecture

Enterprise network design principles, SD-WAN, SD-Access, and QoS configurations.

5 minutes 5 Questions

In CCNP Enterprise (ENCOR), Architecture refers to the comprehensive framework and design principles that underpin modern enterprise networks. It encompasses the structured approach to building, implementing, and managing complex network infrastructures that support business objectives. Enterprise…

Concepts covered
Cisco SD-Access Control and Data PlanesEnterprise Network Design (2-Tier, 3-Tier, Fabric, Cloud)High Availability Techniques (Redundancy, FHRP, SSO)Cisco Catalyst SD-WAN Control and Data PlanesSD-WAN Benefits and LimitationsTraditional Campus Interoperating with SD-AccessInterpreting QoS Configurations
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ENCOR 350-401 - Architecture Example Questions

Test your knowledge of Architecture

Question 1

In SD-Access, what term describes the boundary where VXLAN overlay traffic is decapsulated and converted into standard IP routing toward a traditional campus network?

Correct Answer: The fabric border node handoff point

The fabric border node in SD-Access serves as the boundary between the VXLAN fabric overlay and external networks, where it decapsulates VXLAN traffic and performs standard IP routing or handoff toward traditional campus or WAN networks.

The control plane node manages endpoint registration and mapping via LISP but does not perform traffic decapsulation or routing handoff. The fabric edge node is where endpoints connect and traffic is encapsulated, not where it exits the fabric. The intermediate node concept does not exist as a defined role in SD-Access architecture.

Key concept tested: understanding the role of the fabric border node as the demarcation point between the SD-Access overlay and external routing domains.

Question 2

A team is deploying a campus network in a single building with two floors and 30 access switches. They want a straightforward design that minimizes the number of network layers. The building has two switches acting as both aggregation and high-speed backbone devices. Which enterprise network design model does this deployment represent?

Correct Answer: A 2-tier collapsed core design where distribution and core functions are combined into one layer

In a collapsed core design, the core and distribution layers are combined into a single tier, resulting in a 2-tier architecture where only the access layer remains separate. This is exactly what the scenario describes: two switches performing both aggregation (distribution) and high-speed backbone (core) functions for 30 access switches in a single building.

A 3-tier design would require separate dedicated core switches, which is unnecessary for a single-building deployment. Merging access and distribution layers would eliminate policy enforcement at the aggregation point and still require a separate core. A fabric-based design describes SD-Access or VXLAN overlay architectures, not a traditional hierarchical campus model.

Key concept tested: collapsed core (2-tier) versus 3-tier hierarchical campus design model.

Question 3

In SD-WAN, what is the primary function of the data plane?

Correct Answer: Forwarding user traffic through IPsec-encrypted overlay tunnels between edge devices

The data plane in Cisco SD-WAN (vEdge or WAN Edge routers) is responsible for forwarding actual user traffic between sites through secure IPsec-encrypted tunnels that form the overlay network.

Distributing routing policies and topology information describes the control plane function handled by vSmart controllers. Authenticating and orchestrating initial connections describes the orchestration plane function performed by vBond. Monitoring application performance and adjusting SLA thresholds relates more to management plane functions associated with vManage, though edge devices do perform local SLA measurements.

The key concept tested is understanding the separation of planes in the SD-WAN architecture and specifically the role of the data plane in forwarding encrypted user traffic.

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