800-150 Supporting Cisco Devices for Field Technicians (FLDTEC) Questions and Answers

These components are part of theCisco Collaboration System Architecture (CSA), and are reviewed in theFLDTEC trainingunderCisco Equipment and Collaboration Basics:

Call Control: Managed by services likeCisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM), it routes and connects calls.

Collaboration Applications: Provide added value services such asvoicemail (Unity),messaging (IM&P), presence, and more.

Edge Devices: IncludeCisco ExpresswayandCUBE(Cisco Unified Border Element), offering secure access and traversal for mobile/remote endpoints.

Conferencing: Powered by platforms likeCisco Meeting ServerorWebex, enabling multi-party conferencing.

Endpoints: Include bothhardware (IP phones, video units)andsoftware (Webex app)that users interact with directly.

These command associations are part of Cisco IOS essentials taught in FLDTEC's "Device Configuration and Verification" topic. Here's how each command functions:

show running-config

Displays the active configuration stored in RAM.

This command is used to verify the current settings on a Cisco device.

copy running-config startup-config

Saves the current running configuration to NVRAM, ensuring the configuration persists after a reboot.

This is critical after making changes to devicesettings.

copy tftp: running-config

Loads a configuration from a TFTP server and applies it to the current running configuration.

Often used during remote device setup or restoration.

copy usbflash0:backup.cfg running-config

Restores a saved configuration file from a USB drive.

Useful in field operations where physical backup media is used during maintenance.

These tasks are routine for field technicians performing configuration backups, restorations, and diagnostics in Cisco environments.

When connectingtwo devices of the same type(e.g., two routers, two switches, or two DTEs), acrossover cableis required. This cable swaps the transmit and receive pairs to allow direct communication between devices without the need for an intermediate device like a switch.

Straight-through cablesare used to connect different types of devices (e.g., PC to switch).

Rolled cablesare used for console access.

USB Type A to Bcables are typically used for peripheral device connections, not networking.

To back up the startup configuration of a Cisco device to a USB drive, the commandcopy startup-config usbflash0:[filename]is used. This command copies the contents of the startup configuration file stored in NVRAM to a specified file on the USB flash drive. This is particularly useful for creating backups before performing upgrades or replacements.​Option A:Copies the startup configuration to a TFTP server, not a USB drive.

Option B:Attempts to copy from the USB drive to the startup configuration, which is the reverse of the desired operation.

Option D:Copies the running configuration, not the startup configuration, to the USB drive.​

InInstall mode, thepackages.conffile plays a crucial role in the boot process of Cisco IOS XE Software. It specifies the list of software packages to be loaded and the sequence in which they should be initialized during system startup. This file ensures that all necessary components are correctly loaded, providing a modular and flexible approach to software management.​

Contrary to the other options:​

Thepackages.conffile does not extract the bin file; it references already extracted packages.

It does not contain the entire bundled image; that's characteristic of Bundle mode.

While it resides in the flash memory, it is not a subdirectory but a configuration file.​

Component to configure→ interface

Interface type→ FastEthernet

Port→ 1

Slot→ 0

This command structure is part of theDevice Configuration and Verificationsection in the FLDTEC course. It teaches how to navigate and configure interfaces on Ciscodevices using the IOS CLI:

interface is the global configuration mode command to begin configuring a network interface.

FastEthernet specifies thetype of interface(could also be GigabitEthernet, Serial, etc.).

0/1 represents theslot/portstructure used on Cisco devices:

The first digit (before the slash) is theslot number.

The second digit (after the slash) is theport numberwithin that slot.

This structure allows Cisco to modularly address interfaces, especially in devices with multiple slots or module-based configurations.

A → Line cards

Provide the physicalinterfaces for network connectivity.

B → Route processor cards

Manage routing functions and system control.

C → Transceivers

Installed in the ports of line cards for optical/electrical signal transmission.

D → Power supplies

Provide power to themodular system and are hot-swappable.

Cisco'sNCS 5500 Seriesis designed for service provider and data center deployments. The FLDTEC course outlines the layout of FRUs in modular platforms like this one:

A – Line Cards: Located in the upper slots, these modules handle the bulk of switching and forwarding functions.

B – Route Processor Cards (RP Cards): Positioned centrally, these provide management and control plane services for the router.

C – Transceivers: Installed into the line cards, transceivers provide physical connectivity through optical or copper interfaces.

D – Power Supplies: Located in the bottom rear section, these modules provide redundant and hot-swappable power to the chassis.

Recognizing each FRU visually and functionally is critical when performingRMA procedures,component diagnostics, orhardware upgradesin the field.

In enterprise networking, remote sites or branch offices connect to the central campus network using:​

WAN Links:These are dedicated communication paths that connect geographically dispersed networks. WAN links can be leased lines, MPLS circuits, or other forms of long-distance connectivity that facilitate reliable data transmission between remote sites and the main campus.​

IPsec VPN Tunnels:Internet Protocol Security (IPsec) VPNs provide secure, encrypted tunnels over the public internet, allowing remote sites to connect to the enterprise network securely. This method is cost-effective and widely used for connecting branch offices to the central network infrastructure.​

Access layer switches (Option A) and LAN core switches (Option E) are components within a local network and do not facilitate remote connectivity. Ad hoc Wi-Fi networks (Option D) are temporary and lack the security and reliability required for enterprise-level remote connections.​

TheFLDTECtraining describes theTCP/IP encapsulationas a step-by-step process where data is passed down through the layers of the TCP/IP model:

Application Layer: User data is created (email, file, request) and the application layeradds the application header, creating a data payload.

Transport Layer: The data is segmented. Each segment receives a transport-layer header (TCP/UDP), enabling proper sequencing and error handling at the destination.

Internet Layer: Segments are encapsulated intopackets(IP datagrams), with an IPheader added to facilitate routing between networks.

Link Layer: Finally, packets are framed with Layer 2 headers and trailers (including theFrame Check Sequencefor error detection), creating aframeready to be transmitted on the physical medium.

This layered encapsulation ensuresinteroperabilityandtroubleshooting clarity, which is why it is emphasized inFLDTEC’s IOS Software Basics module.

In a Cisco Nexus switch withdual power supplies, the recommended method is toconnect each power supply to a separate power source(Option C). This ensures power redundancy and fault tolerance.

If one power source fails (e.g., due to a power outage or circuit failure), the switch can continue operating uninterrupted using the second power source. Connecting both to a single source (Option D) defeats the purpose of redundancy.

In theFLDTEC course, underSafety and ESD Procedures, Cisco outlines the following safety workflow before working on any network hardware:

Locate Emergency Power-Off Switch: Identifying how to cut power quickly is essential in case of an electrical fault or emergency.

Disconnect Power: Always ensure the power source is turned off and disconnected before handling any components.

Verify with Multimeter: Use a multimeter to confirm that no voltage is present before proceeding.

Connect ESD Strap: Once confirmed safe, attach your ESD strap to a grounded point to prevent electrostatic damage to sensitive components.

Following this process is critical not only forpersonal safetybut also forequipment protection, especially duringhardware installation, maintenance, or RMA replacements.

The highlighted component on the Cisco I/O module is the chassisconnections LED, which indicates the status of connectivity between the I/O module and the chassis.

In the exhibit, the orange arrow points to asmall rectangular LED indicatorlocated to the left side of the I/O module (Cisco UCS-IOM-2304). This specific LED isnot aligned with the ports, fans, or screws, which helps identify it correctly.

Chassis connections LED (B)is responsible for indicating thestatus of uplink/downlink communicationbetween the I/O module and the chassis.

Greenusually indicates a healthy link.

Amberoroffmay indicate a problem or no connection.

Why the other answers are incorrect:

A. Captive screw→ These are at the far corners, not where the arrow points.

C. Fan module LED→ This IOM doesn’t have user-visible fan LEDs atthe front face.

D. Fixed port→ These are the large rectangular SFP ports clearly visible in the middle, not near the arrow.

This identification is important whentroubleshooting chassis-to-IOM connectivityor verifyingmodule status LEDsduring field maintenance.

OnCisco Meraki switches,Stack Port 1(along with Stack Port 2) is used to form aphysical stacking connectionbetween multiple switches. These stack ports arededicated high-speed interconnectsthat enable multiple switches to operate as a single logical switch.

The stacking topology depends on the number of switches, but Stack Port 1 serves as one side of this high-speed inter-switch communication channel — not for management or cloud access.

To apply a prewritten configuration to a new Cisco device, the console terminal must be inGlobal Configuration Mode. This mode allows administrators to enter configuration commands that affect the device's overall operation. To access Global Configuration Mode, one must first enter Privileged EXEC Mode by typingenable, and then enterconfigure terminal. Once in Global Configuration Mode, theprewritten configuration can be pasted, and the device will accept the commands accordingly.​

Theprimary reasonfor placing heavier equipment, such as UPS units or core switches, at thebottom of a rackis tomaintain stability. A lower center of gravity reduces the risk of tipping, especially when the rack is not yet bolted or braced.

This is a standard safety precaution in network hardware installation and is particularly important when racks are being serviced or relocated.

TheUCS Fabric Interconnectis the central management and communication hub of theCisco UCS (Unified Computing System)environment. It integrates compute, network, and storage access into a unified system.

Fabric Interconnects:

Manage all servers and I/O modules connected to the UCS domain

Provide connectivity and are the point of integration with the Cisco UCSManager

Offer high-availability and centralized policy management

Other options like the Nexus or MDS switches do not serve this unified management function in a UCS deployment.

TheCisco Integrated Management Controller (CIMC)is the embedded management solution designed specifically forstandalone Cisco UCS C-Series rack servers and E-Series servers. It allows administrators to perform out-of-band management functions such as BIOS configuration, firmware updates, remote console access, and power control.

Cisco UCS Manageris used for managing UCS blade chassis environments.

Cisco UCS Centralis intended for centralized management across multiple UCS domains.

Cisco Intersightis a cloud-based management platform that can extend CIMC functionality but is not the embedded, standalone option.

Apre-service checklistis a procedural step followed before replacing an endpoint. Its primary purpose is toconfirm that all resources, tools,documentation, and personnel are in placeto execute the replacement efficiently and without delays.

It helps avoid service interruptions and ensures a smooth replacement by ensuring that every necessary component and action is accounted for ahead of time.

TheWireless LAN Controller (WLC)plays a central role in Cisco’s Unified Wireless Network solution by providing centralized management, configuration, and monitoring for multiple access points (APs). It allows for streamlined policy enforcement, seamless mobility, load balancing, and security management across wireless networks.

While WLCs facilitate wireless connectivity indirectly, their main role is tocentrally manage and controlaccess points — not to function as Layer 3 routers or format data frames.

When installing a fan module in a Cisco Nexus fixed-configuration switch, it's crucial to ensure that theairflowdirection of the new fan matches the existing airflow configuration. Mismatched airflow directions can lead to inefficient cooling or even overheating of components, potentially affecting the performance or lifespan of the switch.

Cisco offers fan modules infront-to-backorback-to-frontairflow variants, and consistency is required for proper thermal management. These modules are also typically hot-swappable, meaning powering down the switch is not necessary.

Step 1 → Performs power-on self-test (POST)

Step 2 → Loads and runs bootstrap code (firmware)

Step 3 → Finds and loads the Cisco IOS software

Step 4 → Finds and loads the configuration

Step 5 → Runs the configured Cisco IOS software

This startup process is thoroughly described in theFLDTECcourse and alignswith Cisco's standard IOS boot process:

POST (Power-On Self-Test):Verifies hardware functionality including memory and interfaces. This occurs immediately upon powering the device.

Bootstrap Code Execution:Bootstrap is a small program in ROM that initiates the boot process.

Cisco IOS Loading:Bootstrap locates and loads the IOS from flash memory or another source (e.g., TFTP).

Configuration Loading:The router then loads the startup-config from NVRAM (if available).

IOS Execution:Once the configuration is loaded, the device enters operational mode and executes the IOS with the loaded config.

This sequence is vital for field technicians to understand for troubleshooting boot failures or performing device recoveries.

In a Class B network, the default subnet mask is 255.255.0.0, which allocates:​

16 bits for the network portion

16 bits for the host portion​

When the subnet mask is changed to255.255.255.0, it becomes:​

24 bits for the network portion

8 bits for the host portion​

This indicates that8 bitshave been borrowed from the host portion to create additional subnets. Borrowing bits allows for the division of the original network into smaller sub-networks, enhancing organization and security within the network.​

In theFLDTEC course, the process for removing or replacing asupervisor module— especially thestandbysupervisor— in a modular switch like theCisco MDS 9700is clearly outlined. Cisco documentation states:

"Before removing a standby supervisor module, it must first be placed into out-of-service mode using the CLI command system no supervisor <slot-number> or via the appropriate management interface."

This action ensures the systemacknowledges the supervisor is no longer participating in redundancy, allowing a safe and controlled removal without impacting system operations.

Why not the other options?

A. Shut down the entire switch→ Not required; MDS switches are built for high availability and allow hot-swap operations.

C. Disconnect all network interface cables→ This applies to line cards or interfaces, not to supervisor removal specifically.

D. Perform a manual failover→ Failover is requiredwhen removing the active supervisor, not the standby one.

Bundle modesimplifies the installation and operation of Cisco IOS XE Software by using a monolithic image file. In thismode, the switch runs directly from the bundled image, eliminating the need to manage individual software packages. This approach is straightforward and reduces complexity, making it suitable for environments where simplicity is a priority.​

However, it's important to note that:​

Bundle mode may result in slower boot times compared to Install mode.

It does not support the independent installation or upgrade of individual packages.

Thepackages.conffile is not utilized in Bundle mode; it's specific toInstall mode.​

According to theCisco FLDTEC training and product documentation:

Cisco PTZ 4K Camera: Offers high-definition video capture with pan-tilt-zoom features and 4K resolution — ideal for large conference spaces.

Cisco Webex Board Pro: Interactive collaboration device that combines video conferencing, whiteboarding, and wireless content sharing.

Cisco Quad Camera: Features multiple cameras for wide-angle views, speaker tracking, and automatic framing — great for medium to large meeting rooms.

Cisco Room Navigator: A touchscreen device that provides intuitive control for room settings, scheduling, and call management.

During password recovery on Cisco devices, the configuration register is modified to instruct the device to bypass the startup configuration stored in NVRAM. This allows administrators to access the device without being prompted for existing passwords. The standard procedure involves changing the configuration register value to0x2142, which tells the device to ignore the startup configuration during the next boot. Once access is gained, the administrator can reset passwords and then restore the original configuration by resetting the configuration register to its default value, typically0x2102.​

Acrossover UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) cableis used to connect two similar devices directly. This includes:​

Switch to switch

Router to router

PC to PC​

The crossover cable reverses the transmit and receive pairs, allowing for proper communication between like devices without the need for an intermediary device.​

Conversely, astraight-through cableis used to connect dissimilar devices, such as:​

PC to switch

Router to switch

PC to router​

This cable maintains the same wiring on both ends, suitable for connecting different types of devices.​

Therefore, when connecting electrically like devices, a crossover cable is appropriate.​