Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) Practice Exam

What is one role of DTP within an EtherChannel configuration?

1. Enhances security features

2. Negotiate the EtherChannel configuration

3. Provides quality of service

4. Connects to the management VLAN

The correct answer is: Negotiate the EtherChannel configuration

In an EtherChannel configuration, the role of Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) specifically revolves around negotiating the EtherChannel configuration between switches. DTP is a Cisco proprietary protocol that enables switches to automatically negotiate trunking settings and encapsulation modes for Ethernet links. This negotiation can simplify the process of establishing a trunk link by allowing switches to communicate and agree on whether a port should become a trunk port or remain an access port. When DTP is enabled, it can facilitate the configuration of EtherChannel by automatically determining whether to bundle ports into an EtherChannel based on the agreed settings. This is particularly useful in dynamic environments where network topology may change frequently, as it reduces the need for manual configuration and the potential for human error. The other choices relate to different aspects of network operation. While enhancing security, providing quality of service, and connecting to the management VLAN are all important considerations in networking, they do not specifically pertain to the negotiation processes associated with EtherChannel configurations and the role that DTP plays in that context.