Cisco 500-560 Exam Dumps & Practice Test Questions

Question 1:

What capability does the web-based interface of the Cisco Catalyst 9200 switch natively support?

A. Submitting a support case to the Cisco Technical Assistance Center
B. Enabling Advanced Malware Protection (AMP) features
C. Monitoring specific areas through the dashboard
D. Directly integrating with Cisco router platforms

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

The Cisco Catalyst 9200 switch includes a built-in Web User Interface (WebUI), which allows network administrators to manage the switch using a browser-based graphical interface. This user-friendly portal is intended to simplify configuration and monitoring tasks, especially for those who prefer not to use the command-line interface (CLI). One of the most valuable features of this interface is its dashboard, which provides real-time insights into the switch’s operational status.

Through the dashboard, administrators can monitor selected sections, such as:

• Interface status and traffic utilization

• Power over Ethernet (PoE) metrics

• System resource usage like CPU and memory

• Port statuses and VLAN configurations

These components are often displayed as graphical widgets or summaries that can be tailored to suit the administrator’s specific monitoring needs. This is particularly beneficial in high-demand environments where quick diagnostics and visual alerts are essential for maintaining network performance and reliability.

Let’s review why the other answer options are incorrect:

• Option A (Opening a case with Cisco TAC):
  While Cisco provides support via the Technical Assistance Center (TAC), case management is not a function available within the Catalyst 9200's WebUI. Instead, support cases must be opened using external tools such as Cisco's Support Portal, Cisco DNA Center, or Cisco Smart Account services.

• Option B (Providing AMP support):
  AMP (Advanced Malware Protection) is a security feature associated with Cisco’s firewalls, endpoints, and cloud-delivered platforms. It is not available on Layer 2/Layer 3 access switches like the Catalyst 9200, nor is it accessible through their WebUI.

• Option D (Integrating with compatible Cisco routers):
  While the Catalyst 9200 can coexist and interoperate with routers in a broader network, such integrations are handled via configuration protocols like static routing or dynamic routing protocols (EIGRP, OSPF). The WebUI does not manage router integration directly.

Therefore, Option C is the only accurate feature provided by the WebUI. By allowing administrators to monitor selected parts of the switch’s performance from a centralized dashboard, the WebUI simplifies operational visibility, enhances troubleshooting, and contributes to overall network efficiency.

Question 2:

Which Cisco Catalyst 9800 wireless controller is best suited for small-scale deployments, such as branches or campuses with up to 200 access points?

A. Catalyst 9800-80
B. Catalyst 9800-CL
C. Catalyst 9800-40
D. Catalyst 9800-SW

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The Cisco Catalyst 9800 Series includes several wireless LAN controllers tailored for different network sizes and deployment styles. For small branch offices or campus networks needing support for up to 200 access points (APs), the best fit is the Catalyst 9800-CL. This model is a virtualized controller that can be deployed in private clouds, public clouds, or on virtualized platforms such as VMware ESXi, KVM, or Hyper-V.

What makes the 9800-CL especially appropriate for small environments is its scalability and flexibility. Based on the allocated compute resources, this controller can support a tiered number of APs and clients. For smaller sites, its resource-light configuration can effectively manage the demands of 200 or fewer APs without needing costly hardware.

Let’s compare the other options:

• Option A: Catalyst 9800-80
  This is a high-end physical appliance meant for very large-scale enterprise deployments. It can support up to 6,000 APs and 64,000 clients, which makes it vastly overpowered and cost-inefficient for smaller environments.

• Option C: Catalyst 9800-40
  This model supports up to 2,000 APs, making it a good fit for medium to large organizations. However, like the 9800-80, it’s not ideal for a small branch setup due to excess capacity and higher price compared to virtual options like the 9800-CL.

• Option D: Catalyst 9800-SW
  There is no officially recognized Cisco product with the designation “9800-SW.” This may be a misinterpretation or typo. Cisco uses designations such as CL, 40, 80, and L-C for licensing purposes, but 9800-SW is not a deployable SKU.

The 9800-CL also supports HA (High Availability), centralized policy management, and seamless roaming, which are desirable even in smaller environments. As a software-based solution, it allows organizations to scale up or down easily without hardware replacement, making it future-proof and cost-effective.

In conclusion, the Catalyst 9800-CL is the most suitable controller for deployments supporting up to 200 APs due to its scalability, affordability, and cloud-ready flexibility.

Question 3:

What is the primary purpose of the third dedicated radio found in Cisco Meraki MR access points?

A. RF optimization (Auto RF)
B. Conducting site survey simulations
C. Assigning DHCP addresses to clients
D. Functioning as a WLAN controller

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

Cisco Meraki MR series access points are engineered for enterprise-grade wireless environments where reliability, performance, and ease of management are paramount. One unique and advanced feature of many MR access points is the inclusion of a third dedicated radio, which serves a purpose distinct from the radios used for typical client data communication.

Unlike the primary radios that handle user traffic on the 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz (or 6 GHz in tri-band models) frequency bands, the third radio is a dedicated scanning and monitoring radio. Its main role is RF optimization, commonly referred to as Auto RF in Meraki’s terminology.

Auto RF enables the access point to automatically and intelligently adjust critical wireless parameters such as channel selection, channel width, and transmit power. These adjustments are based on real-time feedback collected from the environment. The third radio actively scans the RF spectrum for:

• Channel congestion

• Interference (including from non-Wi-Fi sources like microwaves or cordless phones)

• Rogue access points

• Noise levels

• Client distribution and behavior

Because this scanning is performed continuously and independently from client-serving radios, it allows the Meraki APs to optimize performance without disrupting client connectivity. This is especially beneficial in dynamic environments like hospitals, universities, and large enterprise offices where the RF landscape frequently changes.

Let’s consider the incorrect options:

B. Site survey planning
This is a pre-deployment activity and usually involves specialized tools or manual planning. While Meraki APs can aid in post-deployment analysis, the third radio isn’t primarily designed for site survey planning.

C. DHCP addressing
DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) involves assigning IP addresses to clients, a function that is typically performed by a router or dedicated DHCP server, not an AP’s third radio.

D. WLAN controller
Meraki’s architecture is controller-less on-premises, relying instead on the Meraki cloud dashboard for centralized management. The third radio does not act as a controller.

In summary, the third dedicated radio in Meraki MR access points serves the crucial role of real-time RF monitoring and optimization, helping to dynamically enhance wireless performance and reliability through Auto RF features.

Question 4:

How does Cisco DNA Spaces simplify the management of location-based services across a wireless network?

A. By focusing exclusively on customer behavioral insights
B. Through the use of multiple separate dashboards to isolate data
C. By offering a unified interface, also known as a single pane of glass
D. By being deployed on-premises for tight control

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Cisco DNA Spaces is a cloud-based platform designed to bridge the gap between physical and digital spaces using location-aware wireless infrastructure. It leverages data collected from Cisco wireless access points to deliver intelligent location analytics, improve business operations, and support services like asset tracking, customer engagement, and environmental monitoring.

One of the platform’s defining strengths lies in its intuitive and consolidated management experience, often referred to as a “single pane of glass.” This concept means that administrators and stakeholders can monitor, configure, and act on location-based insights through a unified dashboard without having to toggle between disparate tools or interfaces.

Here’s how this benefits users:

• Streamlined Visualization: All analytics, ranging from foot traffic patterns and dwell times to asset locations and environmental alerts, are presented in one interface.

• Simplified Configuration: Tools for setting up sensors, defining zones, and applying rules or alerts are accessible in one place, reducing complexity.

• Cross-functional Accessibility: The unified dashboard is useful across various teams—IT, marketing, operations—allowing them to draw value from the same data set.

Let’s assess the other options:

A. Cisco DNA Spaces focuses exclusively on customer behavior
This is inaccurate. While customer behavior analytics (such as footfall tracking or dwell time) is a feature, the platform also supports asset tracking, health/safety compliance, environmental monitoring, and employee space utilization.

B. Cisco DNA Spaces uses multiple dashboards for customers to segregate data
This contradicts one of DNA Spaces’ primary goals: reducing complexity. Instead of using multiple dashboards, the platform unifies data streams into a single, easy-to-use interface.

D. Cisco DNA Spaces is run on-premises
This is also incorrect. Cisco DNA Spaces is a cloud-native solution, which allows for rapid deployment, centralized updates, scalability, and seamless integration with Cisco’s wireless infrastructure.

Conclusion:
Cisco DNA Spaces stands out by offering a centralized, single pane of glass that makes it easier to manage, visualize, and derive insights from location data. This approach boosts operational efficiency and reduces the need for multiple overlapping tools, making Option C the correct answer.

Question 5:

A client is seeking a physical Cisco wireless controller to manage a network deployment of up to 150 access points. Which model should be recommended?

A. Mobility Express
B. Cisco 8540
C. Cisco 3504
D. Cisco vWLC

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Selecting the appropriate Cisco wireless controller depends heavily on the scale of deployment, licensing model, and whether the customer requires a physical or virtual solution. In this scenario, the requirement specifies a physical controller that supports up to 150 access points (APs), making hardware capacity and right-sizing critical factors.

The Cisco 3504 Wireless Controller is specifically designed for small to medium-sized deployments. It is a physical appliance under the Cisco AireOS family that supports up to 150 access points and 3,000 clients, which fits precisely with the customer’s needs. The 3504 offers high availability, application visibility, and support for latest 802.11ac Wave 2 APs. It also includes advanced features such as Cisco CleanAir, AVC, and Flexible Radio Assignment—all while maintaining a compact, cost-effective footprint.

Let’s assess the other options:

• A. Mobility Express: This is not a standalone physical controller but rather a software-based controller built into specific Cisco APs. It is suitable for very small deployments, typically under 50 APs. It offers ease of setup but lacks the scalability and management capabilities required for 150 APs.

• B. Cisco 8540: This is an enterprise-grade controller capable of handling up to 6,000 APs. While it could manage 150 APs, it is overkill for this use case and likely cost-prohibitive. It's more appropriate for large campuses or service providers.

• D. Cisco vWLC: The virtual Wireless LAN Controller can manage up to 200 APs depending on the licensing and infrastructure, but it’s not a physical controller. Since the customer has specifically requested a physical device, this option is ruled out.

In summary, the Cisco 3504 Wireless Controller aligns with the stated requirement of managing up to 150 APs, offers physical deployment, and strikes the right balance between features and cost. Therefore, the correct choice is C.

Question 6:

What feature set is included by default in the Cisco ISR 900 series router under the IP Base license package?

A. Routing protocols, quality of service, and basic connectivity
B. Basic connectivity, VPN support, and Zone-Based Firewall
C. Routing protocols, quality of service, basic connectivity, and VPN
D. Routing protocols, Zone-Based Firewall, and MPLS

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

The Cisco Integrated Services Router (ISR) 900 series is designed for branch offices and small environments, delivering essential WAN, security, and network services. Cisco employs a modular licensing model, where features are grouped under base and optional packages. Understanding the IP Base license is important when evaluating which features are available by default.

The IP Base license is included with the ISR 900 series by default. It provides core networking capabilities such as:

• Routing protocols: Includes static routing, RIP, and limited support for EIGRP stub. These are sufficient for basic branch connectivity.

• Quality of Service (QoS): Allows for traffic classification and prioritization, ensuring optimal performance for critical applications like voice and video.

• Basic connectivity: Covers Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching, DHCP, NAT, and interface management—all crucial for small networks.

Let’s evaluate the incorrect options:

• B. Basic connectivity, VPN, and Zone-Based Firewall: While connectivity is part of the IP Base license, VPN (such as IPsec or SSL VPN) and Zone-Based Firewall features are part of the Security license, not included by default. These require an additional purchase.

• C. Routing protocols, QoS, basic connectivity, and VPN: This option is misleading because VPN support is again not part of the base license. Even though the rest of the listed features are correct, the inclusion of VPN invalidates the option.

• D. Routing protocols, Zone-Based Firewall, and MPLS: Both Zone-Based Firewall and MPLS require Security and AppX licenses, respectively. These features go beyond the scope of IP Base and would not be accessible without extra licensing.

In essence, the IP Base license equips the ISR 900 series with foundational capabilities suitable for most basic networking scenarios. Advanced services such as security, MPLS, and application optimization are reserved for premium licenses.

Thus, the correct answer is A.

Question 7:

Which Cisco solution is designed to provide secure, encrypted, and affordable remote network access to branch offices, teleworkers, customers, and business partners across the globe?

A. Cisco Remote Access VPN
B. Cisco Cyber Threat Defense & Network Analytics
C. Cisco Next Generation Intrusion Prevention System
D. Cisco Email Security

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

In a world where remote work and decentralized operations are increasingly common, organizations need a way to extend secure access to their internal network without exposing it to potential threats. Cisco Remote Access VPN provides just such a solution. It enables employees, partners, and branch offices to connect to the enterprise network securely over the public internet.

This VPN uses technologies like IPsec (Internet Protocol Security) and SSL/TLS encryption to establish a secure tunnel between the user’s device and the organization’s infrastructure. Once connected, the remote user gains access to internal resources—like file servers, applications, databases, and intranet sites—just as if they were physically present in the corporate office.

Cisco’s VPN solutions are cost-effective because they utilize existing internet connections, reducing the need for expensive leased lines or MPLS links. They're also scalable, making it easy for businesses to accommodate additional remote users or branch locations without major changes to infrastructure.

Let’s break down the incorrect options:

• Option B, Cisco Cyber Threat Defense & Network Analytics, helps detect malicious behaviors and analyze traffic patterns but doesn't provide remote access functionality.

• Option C, Cisco NGIPS, is used for identifying and blocking cyber threats by inspecting traffic, but it’s focused on threat prevention, not remote connectivity.

• Option D, Cisco Email Security, offers protection against phishing, spam, and malware within email systems and does not relate to network access.

Only Cisco Remote Access VPN meets the criteria of being secure, cost-effective, and globally scalable for remote network expansion. It directly addresses the need to connect distributed users securely to enterprise resources, making A the most appropriate choice.

Question 8:

Which Cisco access point model includes the Mobility Express controller image by default, allowing it to act as both an AP and a wireless LAN controller?

A. AIR-AP1815I-K9C
B. AIR-AP1815W-x-K9
C. AIR-AP2802I-K9
D. AIR-AP1852I-K9

Correct Answer: A

Explanation:

Cisco Mobility Express is a wireless solution designed for small to medium-sized networks that eliminates the need for a separate wireless LAN controller (WLC). Instead, the controller functionality is embedded within certain access points, enabling one AP to act as the controller for other APs in the network.

The key to identifying Mobility Express-capable APs lies in their SKU suffix. The suffix -K9C indicates that the access point is preloaded with the Mobility Express (ME) image, making it capable of autonomous operation as both a controller and a regular AP.

• Option A, AIR-AP1815I-K9C, is correct. This model is part of the 1815 series and is specifically designed with Mobility Express capabilities. The “C” in the SKU signifies the inclusion of the controller image, making it ideal for quick and simple deployments without an external WLC.

• Option B, AIR-AP1815W-x-K9, may belong to the same family, but the -x-K9 variant indicates a lightweight image (controller-dependent). It lacks the built-in ME functionality.

• Option C, AIR-AP2802I-K9, is part of the 2800 series, which does support Mobility Express—but the -K9 version does not include the ME image by default. A conversion process is needed to enable Mobility Express, which is not ideal out of the box.

• Option D, AIR-AP1852I-K9, follows the same pattern as the 2800 series. While the 1852 hardware supports Mobility Express, this -K9 SKU doesn’t come with the controller image pre-installed. You’d need a -K9C model or manual image installation.

In conclusion, only AIR-AP1815I-K9C includes Mobility Express functionality by default, making A the right answer for deployments that require controllerless wireless infrastructure.

Question 9:

What is one of the primary difficulties faced by organizations categorized under Cisco's Express Specialization for Networking?

A. Relying heavily on self-managed networking setups
B. Having a minimal number of connected devices
C. Managing network operations with limited budgets and IT staff
D. Coping with complex IT bureaucracy in large departments

Correct Answer: C

Explanation:

Cisco’s Express Specialization for Networking is tailored for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) or distributed branches of larger enterprises. These customers typically seek simplified, efficient, and cost-effective networking solutions. One of the most pressing challenges faced by this group is operating under restricted IT budgets and a shortage of skilled personnel.

Option C—“Managing network operations with limited budgets and IT staff”—directly captures the essence of the issue. These customers often need to deliver business continuity, security, and performance without having the luxury of full-scale IT departments or large capital investments. As a result, they prioritize solutions that are easy to deploy, require minimal configuration, and can be managed remotely or through automated tools.

Now, let's examine why the other options are incorrect:

• A. Relying on do-it-yourself networking may occur, but it is more of a consequence than a root challenge. The DIY approach often results from constrained budgets or lack of in-house expertise, not the core issue itself.

• B. Having a minimal number of connected devices is not a typical concern. In fact, even small offices increasingly operate numerous devices, including mobile phones, IoT devices, and cloud-connected endpoints. The trend is toward more connectivity, not less.

• D. Bureaucratic, large-scale IT operations are characteristics of large enterprises or public-sector environments. Express Specialization targets smaller, leaner operations where hierarchy and bureaucracy are minimal.

Cisco addresses these limitations through its Express Specialization solutions by offering simplified, integrated hardware and cloud-managed software. These solutions emphasize ease of management, automation, and remote control, making them ideal for environments where IT resources are stretched thin. Features such as plug-and-play configuration, centralized dashboards, and pre-packaged security are all designed with resource-constrained customers in mind.

In summary, the defining challenge of Express Specialization customers is not the complexity of the environment, but the need to maximize efficiency under tight financial and staffing constraints, making C the correct answer.

Question 10:

Which networking solution best supports the operational needs of a small branch office?

A. Enterprise-level subscription-based services
B. User access to most resources stored at off-site locations
C. Deploying multiple individual network devices for flexibility
D. A single device offering integrated networking services

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

Small branch offices typically function with limited physical space, smaller IT teams, and tighter budgets. These environments demand network solutions that are not only efficient and compact but also capable of supporting multiple critical services. The best approach is to deploy a single, integrated device that delivers all essential networking functions.

Option D—“A single device offering integrated networking services”—is the most appropriate solution. Devices like Cisco’s Integrated Services Routers (ISRs) combine routing, switching, wireless access, firewall protection, and sometimes voice capabilities into one unit. This unified approach minimizes hardware needs, simplifies installation, and reduces power, cooling, and maintenance costs. These all-in-one solutions are ideal for branches that cannot afford to manage or support complex, multi-device networks.

Now let’s evaluate the other options:

• A. Enterprise-level subscription-based services may offer long-term benefits, but they often come with recurring costs and complexities that may not align with a branch’s immediate need for localized, cost-effective infrastructure. While valuable, they are supplemental—not fundamental—to small branch needs.

• B. Access to off-site (cloud-based) resources is increasingly common and certainly useful, but it doesn't replace the need for a reliable, on-site network infrastructure. Branch offices still need basic local services like DHCP, routing, and security to ensure connectivity to the cloud in the first place.

• C. Using multiple network devices for flexibility may seem like a scalable strategy, but it adds significant complexity and cost. Small branches benefit more from consolidation—fewer devices mean easier setup, troubleshooting, and fewer potential points of failure.

Cisco recognizes these needs and offers solutions with centralized management, automated setup, and cloud-monitoring capabilities to help small branches operate efficiently without requiring on-site IT staff. These solutions help deliver enterprise-class performance with SMB-friendly simplicity and pricing.

In conclusion, the optimal solution for a small branch is a single, integrated device capable of delivering multiple network services efficiently and economically. Therefore, the best answer is D.