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200-301 · Question #723

For which two protocols can PortFast alleviate potential host startup issues? (Choose two.)

The correct answer is A. DHCP B. DNS. PortFast helps hosts acquire IP addresses via DHCP and perform DNS lookups more quickly by preventing Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) delays during port activation.

Submitted by carter_n· Mar 5, 2026

Question

For which two protocols can PortFast alleviate potential host startup issues? (Choose two.)

Options

  • ADHCP
  • BDNS
  • COSPF
  • DRIP
  • ECDP

How the community answered

(15 responses)
  • A
    93% (14)
  • C
    7% (1)

Why each option

PortFast helps hosts acquire IP addresses via DHCP and perform DNS lookups more quickly by preventing Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) delays during port activation.

ADHCPCorrect

DHCP relies on a client sending a broadcast to discover a DHCP server; if the port is delayed by STP, the client may time out before receiving an IP address. PortFast ensures the port is immediately available for DHCP traffic.

BDNSCorrect

DNS resolution often occurs very early in a host's startup process; if network access is delayed by STP convergence, DNS queries might fail or time out, impacting application functionality. PortFast speeds up network access for DNS.

COSPF

OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) is a routing protocol used by routers, not typically by end hosts, so PortFast does not directly alleviate OSPF startup issues.

DRIP

RIP (Routing Information Protocol) is another routing protocol primarily used by routers, and thus PortFast doesn't address host startup issues related to RIP.

ECDP

CDP (Cisco Discovery Protocol) is a Layer 2 protocol used by Cisco devices to share information, but it's not typically a critical 'startup issue' like obtaining an IP address or resolving names for general network access.

Concept tested: PortFast benefits for host services

Source: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/switches/lan/catalyst3750x_3560x/software/release/12_2_55_se/configuration/guide/3750x_3560x_cg/swstp.html

Topics

#PortFast#DHCP#DNS

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