What is the PRIMARY role of Cisco DNA Center in managing a wireless network?
Correct Answer: B
Detailed Explanation: Cisco DNA Center is a network management and automation platform. Its primary role in a wireless network is to provide centralized management, automation, and assurance for the entire network infrastructure, including Wireless LAN Controllers (WLCs) and access points (APs). Think of it as the "brain" of the network, simplifying complex tasks and streamlining operations. DNA Center offers a single pane of glass for managing the network. Instead of configuring each WLC individually, administrators can use DNA Center to push configurations, policies, and updates to multiple WLCs simultaneously. This significantly reduces administrative overhead and ensures consistency across the network. Here's a breakdown of its key functions: Design: DNA Center helps design the network by providing tools for network planning, device placement, and RF optimization. Provision: It automates the provisioning of network devices, including WLCs and APs. This includes configuring devices, deploying software images, and applying network policies. Assurance: DNA Center provides network assurance by monitoring network performance, identifying issues, and providing insights into network health. It uses analytics and machine learning to proactively identify potential problems and provide recommendations for remediation. Automation: DNA Center automates many routine network tasks, such as configuration changes, software updates, and troubleshooting. This frees up network administrators to focus on more strategic initiatives. While DNA Center interacts with WLCs, it doesn't directly handle the forwarding of wireless traffic. That's the job of the WLCs and APs. Similarly, while DNA Center can integrate with authentication systems, it doesn't primarily function as a RADIUS server itself. Its core purpose is centralized management and automation, simplifying the complexities of modern wireless networks and enabling intent-based networking. It allows network administrators to define the desired network behavior (intent) and then DNA Center automates the implementation and management of that intent.
This CCNA practice question helps students prepare for Cisco networking certification exams by testing knowledge of network fundamentals, routing, switching, and network security concepts.