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

During the password recovery process on Cisco devices, ROMMON (ROM Monitor) mode is utilized to perform specific actions that facilitate the recovery. Two critical actions typically performed in ROMMON mode are:​

Change the Configuration Register:The configuration register is modified to instruct the device to ignore the startup configuration during the next boot. This is commonly achieved by setting the configuration register to0x2142. This action prevents the device from loading the saved configuration, allowing access without requiring the existing passwords.​

Reboot the Device:After changing the configuration register, the device is rebooted to apply the new settings. This reboot enables the device to bypass the startup configuration, facilitating the password recovery process.​

These steps are essential in the password recovery procedure, allowing administrators to regain access to the device without erasing the existing configuration.​

Right-To-Use (RTU) licensesare locally managed licenses that allow users to activate specific features on Cisco devices without the need for external tools or connectivity to Cisco's licensing infrastructure. These licenses operate on an honor-based system, where the user agrees to comply with the licensing terms without mandatory enforcement mechanisms.​

In contrast:​

Hybrid licensescombine aspects of traditional and smart licensing models.

PAK (Product Authorization Key) licensesrequire registration and activation through Cisco's licensing portal.

Smart licensesnecessitate communication with Cisco's Smart Licensing servers for activation and management.​

NVRAM → Startup configuration

RAM → Running configuration

ROM → Bootstrap code, POST code, ROM monitor

Flash memory → Cisco IOS software, backup configuration

Each memory type in a Cisco device serves a specific function in the boot process and runtime operation. NVRAM retains configuration across reboots, RAM is volatile and holds active configs, ROM handles initial boot tasks, and flash stores the operating system.

This content is covered thoroughly in"Cisco Equipment and Related Hardware"in the FLDTEC curriculum. Here's the breakdown:

ROM (Read-Only Memory)

Stores bootstrap code, POST (Power-On Self-Test), and ROM Monitor.

These are essential for the device’s initial power-on operations and recovery modes.

NVRAM (Non-Volatile RAM)

Holds thestartup configuration file, which is loaded during the boot process.

Content remains intact after a reboot or power cycle.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Stores therunning configurationand current operational state of the router or switch.

Also used for routing tables, ARPcache, and packet buffers.

Data is lost when the device is powered off or rebooted.

Flash Memory

Contains theCisco IOS image, system files, and can storebackup configurations.

It is a non-volatile storage, so it retains data after reboots.

Cisco Webex Callingis a cloud-based, enterprise-grade PBX (Private Branch Exchange) solution designed to provide comprehensive voice communication services via the Webex cloud platform. It enables IP phones and softphones to register to the cloud, allowing for centralized call control, voicemail, and collaboration features without the need for an on-premises call manager.

Cisco Hosted Collaboration Solutionsare partner-hosted services.

Webex Meetingssupports virtual video conferencing.

Webex Teams(now part of Webex App) supports messaging and collaboration, not PBX functionality.

Cisco UCS E-Series serversare integrated, blade-style compute modules that can be installed insideCisco ISR(Integrated Services Routers). Their primary advantage is toprovide local compute resources in branch officeswithout needing a full data center environment.

This enables:

Hosting of virtual machines or applications locally

Reduced latency for edge computing

Lowered dependency on central data center resources

These servers are ideal for runningbranch-office workloads, virtualization, or edge analytics, allowing enterprises to deploy scalable compute capabilities closer to the data source.

Theshow inventorycommand is used on Cisco devices to display detailed information about thehardware components installed, including:

Product Identifier (PID)

Version Identifier (VID)

Serial Number (SN)

Description of the component

In the exhibit, the output clearly shows:

NAME: "Chassis", DESCR: "Cisco ISR4451-X/K9"

PID:ISR4451-X/K9, VID: V01, SN: FCW2134L0SH

This confirms thatshow inventoryis the correct command to retrieve theserial numberand hardware inventory details.

show versionprovides some system information and sometimes includes serial numbers, but it's not as reliable or detailed for component-level hardware info.

show idpromis not commonly used and not supported on all platforms.

show platformprovides platform-specific info but not typically the serial number.

PING→ Sends ICMP echo request packets to verify connectivity

Telnet→ Allows virtual terminal connections with unencrypted traffic

SSH→ Provides secure, encrypted remote access to network devices

IP address configuration→ Requires the PC and Cisco device to be in the same subnet for direct connection

These tools and their functions are covered under“Device Configuration and Verification”in the FLDTEC course:

PING:Utilized to test basic networkconnectivity using ICMP echo request/reply messages. It confirms whether a device is reachable and measures the round-trip time.

Telnet:A protocol that allows for remote device access but transmits data in plaintext, which makes it insecure. It's typically disabled by default on modern Cisco devices due to security concerns.

SSH (Secure Shell):Replaces Telnet as the preferred method for secure CLI access. It encrypts the session, protecting sensitive information such as login credentials.

IP Address Configuration:For direct device access via the same local network, both the PC and the Cisco device must be in the same subnet. This allows the use of tools like browser-based GUIs or terminal emulators when connecting directly.

Cisco Room Kit→ All-in-one devices for personal workspaces and meeting rooms

Cisco Desk Series→ Standalone modular video conferencing systems

Quad Camera→ Multi-angle video capture for immersive experiences

Room Navigator→ Touch panel for room controls and scheduling

Cisco Board→ Interactive touchscreen displays supporting video conferencing

Cisco’s collaboration portfolio includes a wide variety ofhardware endpointsused toenhance remote communication and conference room experiences. These are highlighted in the FLDTEC material as follows:

Cisco Room Kit: Combines camera, codec, speakers, and microphones into one device — designed for easy integration with displays in meeting spaces.

Cisco Desk Series: Purpose-built for desktop video conferencing and modular setups.

Quad Camera: Offersautomatic speaker trackingandintelligent framing, used in large rooms for immersive experiences.

Room Navigator: Used tocontrol meetings, reserve rooms, and manage smart building functions.

Cisco Board: Interactive digital whiteboard that integratesvideo conferencing, whiteboarding, and wireless sharing.

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.

Within theFLDTECtraining, especially underMaintenance and RMA Procedures, there is a strong emphasis on safely transferring and adapting configurations from failed or decommissioned devices to replacement units.

The official guidance includes the following:

"When reusing a configuration from an old device, make sure to retain the necessary security elements such as username entries. This ensures the replacement device is still accessible under the correct user credentials."

Here's a breakdown of why the correct answer isB:

A. Remove all configurations under line vty 0 4:This would eliminate remote access settings, making it harder to manage the device.

B. Retain all username entries:Correct. Keeping the username entries ensures continued secure access and avoids loss of administrative control.

C. Keep all access-list commands intact:Not always required — ACLs are often tailored to interface-specific settings or environments which may differ between devices.

D. Add the enable password cisco command:Not a best practice. Default passwords (like cisco) should be avoided for security reasons, and it's not required if enable secret is already in use.

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Theboot systemcommand is used in globalconfiguration mode to specify the source and filename of the Cisco IOS software image that should be loaded during the device’s boot process. This command ensures that the device loads a specific IOS image, whether it's stored locally in flash or fetched from a TFTP server.

Syntax example:

boot system flash:c1900-universalk9-mz.SPA.157-3.M3.bin

boot image,boot ios, andboot sourceare invalid or non-existent in standard Cisco IOS.

In a local area network (LAN), the primary function of aswitch is to operate at Layer 2 (Data Link Layer) of the OSI model. Switches use MAC addresses to forward frames to the appropriate destination ports. This targeted forwarding mechanism divides the network into separate collision domains for each switch port. By isolating collision domains, switches significantly reduce the chance of collisions, enhancing the performance and efficiency of the network.

Unlike hubs, which forward all traffic to all ports (thus creating a single collision domain), switches intelligently forward only the necessary traffic to the correct port. This capability allows multiple simultaneous conversations on different switch ports without interference.

Routers, which operate at Layer 3 (Network Layer), are used to route packets between different networks, not within the same LAN. Wireless connectivity is provided by wireless access points (WAPs), not switches. Encryption is typically handled by security protocols or devices such as firewalls and not by switches directly.

Integrates multiple network layers into a single infrastructure → Unified Fabric

Provides link aggregation and redundancy between switches → Virtual port channels (vPCs)

Enables software-defined networking in data centers → Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI)

Combines storage and network traffic on a single network → Fibre Channel over Ethernet (FCoE)

These data center solutions are covered in theFLDTEC courseunder Cisco’s unified data center architecture and switching portfolio:

Unified Fabric:Streamlines Layer 2 and Layer 3 into a single operational model, reducing complexity and enhancing scalability.

vPC (Virtual Port Channel): Allows two Nexus switches to appear as one logical switch, enablingloop-free topologyandactive-active uplinks.

ACI (Application Centric Infrastructure): Cisco’s SDN solution, delivering centralized automation, policy enforcement, and fabric management.

FCoE: Enableslossless Ethernetforstorage (Fibre Channel)traffic to coexist withdatatraffic on the same Ethernet infrastructure.

These technologies are fundamental in modern Cisco-powered data centers tooptimize performance,reduce hardware, andsimplify management.

For standalone Cisco Secure Firewall deployments, theCisco Secure Firewall Device Manager (FDM)is the most appropriate management option. FDM is a browser-based, on-box management tool that allows administrators to configure and manage a single firewall device without the need for external management infrastructure. It provides an intuitive interface for basic configurations, policy management, and monitoring.​

In contrast:​

Cisco Secure Firewall Management Center (FMC)is designed for centralized management of multiple firewall devices.

Cisco Defense Orchestrator (CDO)is a cloud-based solution for managing security policies across various devices.

Cisco Security Manageris an older platform primarily used for managing ASA devices.​

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.

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.​

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.​

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.

The commandcopy tftp: running-configis used to retrieve a configuration file from a TFTP server and merge it with the current running configuration of a Cisco device. Thisoperation is additive, meaning it integrates the new configuration commands into the existing running configuration without removing any pre-existing commands unless explicitly overridden.​

This method is particularly useful when restoring configurations to a replacement device, as it allows for the seamless integration of necessary settings without disrupting the current operational state.​

In contrast, usingcopy tftp: startup-configwould overwrite the startup configuration file, which could lead to unintended consequences upon the next device reload. The optionsload tftp: running-configandmerge tftp: running-configare not valid Cisco IOS commands.​

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.​

Backing up the configuration of a network device before replacement is a critical step to ensure business continuity and minimize downtime. The primary purpose of this backup is torestore the existing settings onto the new device, ensuring that it operates identically to the one being replaced.​

This process includes preserving interface configurations, routing protocols, access control lists, and other essential parameters. By restoring the backed-up configuration to the new device, network administrators can quickly reintegrate it into the network infrastructure without the need for manual reconfiguration, thereby reducing the risk of errors and service disruptions.​

Options A, B, and C do not align with the primary objective of configuration backups in the context of device replacement.​

A → Power supply modules

B → Fan tray assembly

C → Line card slots 1 and 2

D → Supervisor modules

E → Line card slots 5, 6, and 7

The power supply units (A) are at the top, the fan tray (B) is a vertical module on the left, line cards (C and E) span multiple slots horizontally, and supervisor modules (D) are typically placed centrally for control functions.

In theFLDTEC courseunderCisco Modular Hardware Overview, the Cisco Catalyst 9400 series is broken down into clearly defined FRU zones:

Power Supply Modules (A):Located at thetop of the chassis, these provide redundant, hot-swappable power to the switch.

Fan Tray Assembly (B):Mounted vertically on the left, this ensures proper cooling and airflow throughout the chassis.

Line Card Slots 1 and 2 (C):Located in the upper section for network expansion.

Supervisor Modules (D):Positioned centrally, they handle control plane operations, management, and switching logic.

Line Card Slots 5, 6, and 7 (E):Lower slots for high-density port expansion.

Correct FRU identification ensures successful maintenance, upgrades, and hardware replacement during field operations.

In theFLDTEC curriculum, Cisco emphasizes understanding of virtualized components in enterprise networks and UCS environments:

Virtual Switch– Operates within a hypervisor, replicates L2 behavior for inter-VM and external connectivity.

Type 1 Hypervisor– Also called “bare-metal,” examples include VMware ESXi and Microsoft Hyper-V Core; optimized for data center performance.

Virtual Machine (VM)– A logical instance of a system that runs its own OS and apps, powered by virtualized CPU, RAM, and storage.

Type 2 Hypervisor– Runs atop an existing OS (e.g., VMware Workstation, VirtualBox), ideal for labs and dev/testing.

Mastering these definitions supports field technicians inUCS deployments, virtualization troubleshooting, and remote infrastructure diagnostics.

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.

In ablade server environment, thechassisserves as the enclosure thathouses multiple blade servers. It provides shared power, cooling, and connectivity resources. Blade servers are compact server modules that insert into the chassis, and the shared infrastructure makes the entire system efficient in space, power, and management.

The chassis does not act as a switch or storage array itself but provides interconnects and sometimes integrated networking components.

After powering off a Cisco device in preparation for chassis replacement, theimmediate next stepis tolabel and remove all I/O cables. This step is crucial to ensure that all connections can be accurately restored after the new chassis is installed.​

Proper labeling prevents confusion and potential misconfigurations during reassembly. Only after all cables are safely disconnected should you proceed to remove the chassis ground and then the chassis itself.​

The Cisco Collaboration Infrastructure is designed to support unified communications, video conferencing, and team collaboration through an integrated architecture involving both hardware (e.g., endpoints, media servers) and software (e.g., CUCM, Webex apps).

According to the FLDTEC course content under Cisco Collaboration Equipment and Infrastructure:

Facilitating Connections (C):

Cisco infrastructure components such as CUCM, Expressway, and Cisco Meeting Server enable real-time connections between users across voice, video, and messaging systems.

Supporting Meeting Experiences (E):

Devices such asWebex Boards, Room Kits, and Cisco Quad Cameras, in combination with platforms like Webex, provide immersive and seamless meeting experiences, supported by the infrastructure.

Incorrect Options:

A. Network bandwidth allocation: Typically managed by network QoS policies and WAN optimizations, not the collaboration infrastructure directly.

B. Hosting large-scale databases: Not a function of Cisco’s collaboration system — this falls under data center or database server roles.

D. Phone book administration: Often a function within directory services or external LDAP integration, not a core collaboration infrastructure task.