Cisco Interview Questions and Answers (with Recruitment Proces)

Are you preparing for a Cisco interview and feeling a bit overwhelmed? Cisco interviews are known for their rigorous and comprehensive questions that test your technical knowledge and problem-solving skills. In this blog, we’ll dive into some of the most common Cisco interview questions to give you a solid head start on your preparation. Cisco is a global leader in networking and IT and hires candidates who are not only technically proficient but also capable of thinking critically and adapting quickly. Whether you’re aiming for a role in network engineering, cybersecurity, or software development, knowing the types of questions you might face can give you a big confidence boost.

Cisco Recruitment Process

Landing a job at Cisco requires navigating through a structured recruitment process designed to identify top talent. These stages are designed to assess your technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and cultural fit within the company. Let’s break down each step of the recruitment process to help you navigate your path to success at Cisco.

1. Online Assessment Test

The first step in Cisco’s recruitment process is usually an online assessment test. This test is designed to evaluate your foundational knowledge and skills pertinent to the job role you’re applying for. The total time duration for the online assessment is 70 minutes with no negative marking. The online assessment typically includes questions on:

• Aptitude: Questions based on logical reasoning, numerical abilities, and verbal skills.
• Technical Knowledge: Basic questions relevant to your field, be it network engineering, cybersecurity, or software development.
• Coding Challenges: If you’re applying for a software development role, expect coding problems that test your algorithmic and problem-solving skills.

2. Technical Interview Rounds

Candidates who pass the online assessment are invited to participate in the technical interview rounds. These rounds aim to gauge your in-depth technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and practical skills. Interviewers may also ask about your past work experiences to assess your suitability for the job role.

3. HR Interview

The final stage of Cisco’s recruitment process is the HR interview, which focuses on assessing your fit within the company’s culture and evaluating your soft skills. During this round, you’ll encounter behavioral questions that delve into your past experiences, as well as scenario-based questions that gauge your problem-solving and interpersonal abilities. To make a strong impression, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with Cisco’s core values and objectives. 

Cisco Interviews Questions and Answers

Preparing for a Cisco interview involves understanding a variety of question types that you might encounter. It’s important to be well-versed in technical, HR, and behavioral aspects to demonstrate your comprehensive skill set to the employer. Here are some of the Cisco basic interview questions with their answers to give you a competitive edge.

1. Cisco Behavioral Interview Questions

Behavioral interview questions are designed to gain insight into how you have managed various situations in the past job. These questions allow interviewers to assess key competencies such as problem-solving skills, teamwork, adaptability, and leadership qualities. Here are some common Cisco behavioral interview questions you might encounter during the interview.

Q1. Describe a time when you had to work on a project with a tight deadline. How did you manage to complete it on time?

Sample Answer: In my previous role, I was tasked with a project that had to be completed within a week, despite its usual two-week timeline. To tackle this, I started by breaking the project down into smaller, manageable tasks and prioritizing them. I then crafted a detailed schedule, assigning specific time slots for each task to ensure steady progress.

Effective communication was key, so I kept my team updated and aligned, delegating tasks based on each member’s strengths. This collaborative approach and meticulous organization enabled us to meet the tight deadline without compromising on quality.

Q2. Tell me about a situation where you had to collaborate with a difficult team member. How did you handle the conflict?

Sample Answer: During a team project, I worked with a member who was often uncooperative and critical of others’ ideas. To address this, I arranged a one-on-one meeting with them to understand their concerns better. I made sure to listen carefully and acknowledge their viewpoints. After that, I explained the team’s goals and emphasized the need for everyone to work together. By finding common ground and setting clear expectations, we were able to improve our collaboration and successfully complete the project.

Q3. Can you provide an example of a challenging problem you solved at work? What was your approach and the outcome?

Sample Answer: We once faced a significant issue with a software bug that was affecting our product’s performance. My approach was to first gather all relevant data and identify the root cause of the problem. I then brainstormed potential solutions with my team and evaluated the pros and cons of each. After selecting the most viable solution, we implemented it and monitored the results closely. The outcome was positive, as we resolved the bug and improved the product’s performance, leading to increased customer satisfaction.

Q4. Describe a time when you had to learn a new technology or skill quickly. How did you go about it? 

Sample Answer: When our company decided to adopt a new project management tool, I had to quickly master it to ensure a smooth transition for my team. I began by reading the official guide and watching online tutorials. Further, I joined online groups where people shared their tips and tricks. I practiced every day, using the tool on real projects, which helped me get the hang of it quickly. This hands-on approach not only made me good at using the tool but also made our projects run more smoothly. Soon, I was able to train my team effectively, and this new skill opened up more opportunities for me in project management.

Q5. Give an example of a situation where you had to take the lead on a project. How did you ensure its success?

Sample Answer: I was once tasked with leading a project to develop a new feature for our software product. To ensure its success, I began by defining clear objectives and creating a detailed project plan. I assigned tasks based on team members’ strengths and set up regular check-ins to monitor progress. I also encouraged open communication and collaboration within the team. By staying organized and proactive, we completed the project on time and received positive feedback from our clients.

Q6. Tell me about a time when you received constructive criticism. How did you respond, and what steps did you take afterward?

Sample Answer: During a performance review, my manager pointed out that I needed to improve my time management skills. I responded by thanking them for the feedback and asking for specific examples and suggestions for improvement. I then implemented their advice by using time management tools and techniques, such as creating to-do lists and prioritizing tasks. Over time, I became more efficient and received positive feedback in subsequent reviews.

Q7. Describe a scenario where you had to balance multiple priorities. How did you ensure each task was completed effectively?

Sample Answer: In my previous job, I often had to juggle multiple projects with overlapping deadlines. To manage this, I used a project management tool to keep track of all tasks and deadlines. I prioritized tasks based on their urgency and importance and allocated specific time slots for each. I also communicated with stakeholders to set realistic expectations and ensure that everyone was aware of the progress. By staying organized and focused, I was able to complete all tasks effectively.

Q8. Can you share an experience where you had to adapt to a significant change in the workplace? How did you handle it?

Sample Answer: When our company underwent a major restructuring, many roles and responsibilities changed. To adapt, I first sought to understand the new structure and my new responsibilities. I attended training sessions and asked for clarification when needed. I also stayed flexible and open-minded, embracing the changes as opportunities for growth. By maintaining a positive attitude and being proactive, I was able to adapt quickly and continue to perform well in my role.

Q9. Provide an example of a goal you set for yourself at work and how you achieved it. What challenges did you face along the way?

Sample Answer: I set a goal to improve my public speaking skills to better present our projects to clients. To achieve this, I joined a local Toastmasters club and practised regularly. I also sought feedback from colleagues and incorporated their suggestions. One challenge I faced was overcoming my initial nervousness, but with consistent practice and positive reinforcement, I became more confident and effective in my presentations.

Q10. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond your job responsibilities to achieve a goal. What motivated you?

Sample Answer: During a critical project, I noticed that our documentation was outdated and causing confusion. Although it wasn’t part of my job, I took the initiative to update the documentation. I spent extra hours researching and compiling accurate information. My motivation was to ensure the project’s success and make it easier for my colleagues to understand and execute their tasks. My team appreciated this effort, and it led to smoother project execution.

2. Cisco HR Interview Questions and Answers

HR interview questions are designed to understand a candidate’s personality, work style, and fit within the company culture. These questions often focus on your background, experiences, and how you handle various work situations. Here are some common HR Cisco job interview questions and sample answers to help you prepare.

Q11. Can you tell me about yourself and your background?

Sample Answer: I have a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from XYZ University. Over the past five years, I have worked in various roles in the IT sector, focusing on network administration and cybersecurity. My last position was at ABC Corp, where I managed a team responsible for network security. I am passionate about technology and enjoy staying updated with the latest industry trends.

Pro Tip: To answer “tell me about yourself” questions better, you can focus on highlighting your key skills and abilities that align with the job role. Additionally, try to keep your answer short and concise to maintain the interviewer’s interest and clearly demonstrate your fit for the job position. 

Q12. Why do you want to work at Cisco?

Sample Answer: I am impressed by Cisco’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the field of networking and IT solutions. Cisco’s reputation for fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment aligns with my professional values. I am eager to contribute to Cisco’s mission and grow within a company that is a leader in the industry. 

Pro Tip: To answer “why you want to work here”, you should research the company thoroughly and read the job description. Furthermore, you should try to align your answer according to the company’s core values.

Q13. What do you know about Cisco’s products and services?

Sample Answer: Cisco is renowned for its networking hardware, software, and telecommunications equipment. Some of its key products include routers, switches, and cybersecurity solutions. Cisco also offers cloud and collaboration tools, such as Webex. The company serves a wide range of customers, from small businesses to large enterprises, across various industries.

Q14. How do you keep abreast of industry trends and technological advances?

Sample Answer: I regularly read industry publications, follow tech blogs, and participate in webinars and conferences. I am also a member of several professional organizations, which provide valuable networking opportunities and access to the latest research and developments in the field.

Q15. Describe a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in your workplace. How did you handle it?

Sample Answer: At my previous job, our company underwent a major restructuring, which included a shift to remote work. I adapted by setting up a dedicated home office, learning new collaboration tools, and maintaining regular communication with my team. This experience taught me the importance of flexibility and effective communication during times of change.

Q16. What are your strengths and weaknesses, and how do they align with the role you are applying for?

Sample Answer: One of my strengths is my ability to solve complex problems efficiently. I am also a strong communicator, which helps in team collaboration. A weakness I am working on is my tendency to be a perfectionist, which sometimes slows down my work. However, I am learning to balance quality with efficiency. These traits align well with the role at Cisco, which requires both technical expertise and teamwork.

Q17. Can you provide an example of a time when you demonstrated leadership skills?

Sample Answer: In my last role, I led a project to upgrade our network security infrastructure. I coordinated with different departments, set clear goals, and ensured that the project was completed on time and within budget. My leadership helped the team stay focused and motivated, resulting in a successful implementation.

Q18. How do you handle stress and pressure, especially when dealing with tight deadlines or multiple tasks?

Sample Answer: I handle stress by prioritizing tasks and breaking them down into manageable steps. I also make sure to take short breaks to clear my mind and stay focused. Effective time management and maintaining a positive attitude help me stay productive under pressure.

Q19. Describe a situation where you had to work with a diverse team. How did you ensure effective collaboration?

Sample Answer: In a previous project, I worked with a team that included members from different cultural backgrounds and expertise. I ensured effective collaboration by promoting open communication, respecting different viewpoints, and leveraging each team member’s strengths. Regular team meetings and clear role definitions helped us work cohesively and achieve our goals.

Q20. Where do you see yourself in five years, and how does this position align with your career goals?

Sample Answer: In five years, I see myself in a leadership role within the networking and cybersecurity field. This position at Cisco aligns with my career goals as it offers opportunities for professional growth, skill development, and the chance to work on cutting-edge technologies. I am excited about the potential to contribute to Cisco’s success and advance my career.

3. Cisco Technical Interview Questions for Freshers

In this section, we will explore some fundamental Cisco technical round questions that are commonly asked during Cisco interviews. These questions cover essential networking concepts and technologies that every aspiring network engineer should be familiar with. Understanding these topics will help you build a strong foundation in networking and prepare you for a successful career in the field.

Q21. Explain the OSI model and its layers.

Sample Answer: The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a conceptual framework used to understand and implement network protocols in seven layers. These layers are:

1. Physical Layer: Deals with the physical connection between devices and the transmission of binary data over physical media.
2. Data Link Layer: Manages the node-to-node data transfer and error detection/correction.
3. Network Layer: Handles the routing of data packets between devices across different networks.
4. Transport Layer: Ensures reliable data transfer with error checking and flow control.
5. Session Layer: Manages sessions and connections between applications.
6. Presentation Layer: Translates data formats between the application and the network.
7. Application Layer: Provides network services directly to end-user applications.

Q22. What is the difference between TCP and UDP? Provide examples of applications that use each protocol.

Sample Answer: TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) is a connection-oriented protocol that ensures reliable data transfer with error checking and flow control. Examples of applications using TCP include web browsing (HTTP/HTTPS) and email (SMTP).

UDP (User Datagram Protocol) is a connectionless protocol that allows for faster data transfer without guaranteeing delivery. Examples of applications using UDP include video streaming (YouTube) and online gaming.

Q23. Describe how subnetting works and why it is important in networking.

Sample Answer: The procedure of breaking down a larger network into smaller, more manageable sub-networks (subnets) is called subnetting. This can aid in the efficient allocation of IP addresses, decrease network congestion, and bolster security by segregating different parts of the network. Subnetting entails borrowing bits from the host section of an IP address to establish a subnet mask, which defines the network and host sections of an address.

Q24. What is the function of a router in a network? How does it differ from a switch?

Sample Answer: A router is a device that connects multiple networks and directs data packets between them based on their IP addresses. It determines the best path for data to travel from the source to the destination.

A switch, on the other hand, operates within a single network and connects multiple devices (e.g., computers, printers) within that network. It uses MAC addresses to forward data to the correct device.

Q25. Explain the concept of VLANs and their advantages in a network.

Sample Answer: A VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) is a logical grouping of devices within a network that can communicate as if they were on the same physical network, regardless of their actual physical location. VLANs enhance network security, improve performance by reducing broadcast domains, and simplify network management by allowing for easier segmentation and isolation of network traffic.

Q26. What are IP addresses, and what is the difference between IPv4 and IPv6?

Sample Answer: An IP address is a unique identifier assigned to each device connected to a network, allowing them to communicate with each other.

• IPv4 (Internet Protocol version 4) uses a 32-bit address format, allowing for approximately 4.3 billion unique addresses.
• IPv6 (Internet Protocol version 6) uses a 128-bit address format, providing a vastly larger address space, improved security features, and better support for modern networking needs.

Q27. Describe how DNS works and its role in the internet.

Sample Answer: The Domain Name System (DNS) is an organized system that converts user-friendly domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses used by computers to recognize each other on the network. When a user inputs a domain name into their browser, the DNS server translates it into the associated IP address, enabling the browser to connect to the appropriate web server.

Q28. What is NAT (Network Address Translation), and why is it used?

Sample Answer: NAT (Network Address Translation) is a technique used to modify IP address information in packet headers while they are in transit across a router. It allows multiple devices on a local network to share a single public IP address for accessing the internet. NAT enhances security by hiding internal IP addresses and conserves the limited number of available public IP addresses.

Q29. Explain the concept of firewall and its importance in network security.

Sample Answer: A firewall is a network security device that monitors and controls incoming and outgoing network traffic based on predetermined security rules. It acts as a barrier between a trusted internal network and untrusted external networks (e.g., the Internet). Firewalls are crucial for protecting networks from unauthorized access, cyberattacks, and other security threats.

Q30. What are the differences between symmetric and asymmetric encryption? Provide examples of each.

Sample Answer: Symmetric encryption uses the same key for both encryption and decryption. It is faster and suitable for encrypting large amounts of data. An example is the Advanced Encryption Standard (AES). Asymmetric encryption uses a pair of keys: a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption. It is more secure but slower than symmetric encryption. An example of asymmetric encryption is the RSA algorithm.

4. Cisco Technical Interview Questions for Experienced Professionals

In this section, we delve into advanced technical questions tailored for experienced professionals. These Cisco interview questions for experienced professionals are designed to assess your deep understanding of networking concepts, configurations, and troubleshooting techniques, particularly in the context of Cisco technologies. Your responses should demonstrate not only your technical expertise but also your practical experience in handling complex network environments.

Q31. Can you explain the difference between OSPF and EIGRP? When would you use one over the other?

Sample Answer: OSPF (Open Shortest Path First) is a link-state routing protocol that operates within a single autonomous system. It is well-suited for large, hierarchical networks due to its fast convergence and scalability. EIGRP is a routing protocol that combines characteristics of both distance-vector and link-state protocols. It is easier to configure and provides faster convergence in smaller networks.

You would use OSPF in large, multi-vendor networks where interoperability is crucial, as it is an open standard protocol. EIGRP, being a Cisco proprietary protocol, is preferred in smaller networks or Cisco-exclusive environments for its simplicity and efficiency.

Q32. How do you configure and troubleshoot a Cisco ASA firewall for site-to-site VPN?

Sample Answer: To configure a Cisco ASA firewall for a site-to-site VPN, follow these steps:

1. Define the ISAKMP policy.
2. Configure the IPsec transform set.
3. Create a crypto map and apply it to the interface.
4. Configure the tunnel group.
5. Define the access list for interesting traffic.

Q33. What are the key differences between VLAN and VXLAN? How do they impact network segmentation and scalability?

Sample Answer: VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) provides layer 2 segmentation within a network by partitioning and isolating segments. VXLAN (Virtual Extensible LAN) extends this concept to layer 3, allowing for greater scalability by encapsulating layer 2 frames within UDP packets.

VLANs are limited to 4096 IDs, restricting scalability in large networks. VXLAN, on the other hand, supports up to 16 million IDs, making it ideal for cloud data centers and large-scale environments.

Q34. Describe your experience with Cisco Nexus switches. How do they differ from Catalyst switches, and what are their key features?

Sample Answer: Cisco Nexus switches are designed for data center environments, offering features like high performance, low latency, and support for 10/40/100 Gigabit Ethernet. They also support advanced technologies like VXLAN, FabricPath, and automation capabilities through NX-OS.

In contrast, catalyst switches are typically used in campus and branch networks, focusing on high availability, security, and ease of management. Nexus switches excel in environments requiring high throughput and advanced data center features.

Q35. Can you explain the concept of Software-Defined Networking (SDN) and how it is implemented in Cisco ACI?

Sample Answer: Software-defined networking (SDN) separates the control plane from the data plane, allowing for centralized network management and programmability. Cisco Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI) is Cisco’s SDN solution, which uses a policy-driven approach to automate and manage the network.

ACI simplifies network configuration, improves agility, and enhances security by using application-centric policies. It integrates with existing infrastructure, enabling seamless operations and faster deployment of applications.

Q36. How do you perform a BGP configuration on Cisco routers? What are some common issues you have encountered, and how did you resolve them?

Sample Answer: Here are the steps that you can follow to configure BGP on Cisco routers:

1. Define the BGP router ID and enable BGP routing.
2. Configure the BGP neighbors.
3. Define the network statements for the prefixes to be advertised.
4. Set up BGP attributes like weight, local preference, and MED for path selection.

The common issues include misconfigured neighbor relationships, route advertisement problems, and incorrect BGP attributes. Troubleshooting tools like show ip bgp, show ip bgp summary, and debug ip bgp can help identify and resolve these issues.

Q37. Describe the process of implementing QoS on a Cisco network. What are the key components and configuration steps?

Sample Answer: To implement Quality of Service (QoS) on a Cisco network, follow these steps:

1. Identify and classify traffic using access lists or class maps.
2. Define QoS policies using policy maps to specify how different traffic classes should be treated.
3. Apply the QoS policies to the appropriate interfaces using service policies.

The key components include classification, marking, policing, queuing, and scheduling. Proper QoS implementation ensures that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency.

Q38. What is the role of NetFlow in network monitoring? How do you configure it on Cisco devices?

Sample Answer: NetFlow provides detailed traffic analysis and monitoring by capturing IP traffic flow information. It helps in understanding network usage, identifying anomalies, and optimizing performance.

To configure NetFlow on Cisco devices, follow these steps:

1. Enable NetFlow on the interface using ip flow ingress and ip flow egress.
2. Define the NetFlow export destination using ip flow-export destination.
3. Configure the NetFlow version and other parameters as needed.

Q39. Can you explain the differences between HSRP, VRRP, and GLBP? How do you decide which one to use in a network design?

Sample Answer: HSRP (Hot Standby Router Protocol) is a Cisco proprietary protocol that provides router redundancy. VRRP (Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol) is an open standard alternative to HSRP. GLBP (Gateway Load Balancing Protocol) is a Cisco protocol that offers load balancing in addition to redundancy.

HSRP and VRRP are used for simple redundancy, while GLBP is chosen for environments needing load balancing along with redundancy. The choice depends on network requirements and compatibility considerations.

Q40. Describe a complex network issue you encountered in the past. How did you diagnose and resolve it using Cisco tools and technologies?

Sample Answer: In a past project, we faced intermittent network outages affecting multiple VLANs. Using Cisco’s troubleshooting tools like show tech support, show log, and debug, we identified that the root cause was a faulty switch causing broadcast storms.

We isolated the faulty switch and reconfigured the spanning tree protocol (STP) to enhance redundancy and prevent future issues. This resolved the network instability and improved overall performance.

Conclusion

Preparing for a Cisco interview requires a balanced approach that focuses on both technical skills and behavioral competencies. By understanding the types of Cisco interview questions, you can boost your confidence and increase your chances of success. Remember, thorough preparation and a calm, methodical approach can make a significant difference. If you’re interested in exploring more opportunities and learning about other top-paying companies in India, do check our detailed blog on the highest-paying companies in India with salary & benefits.

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