HCIA Cloud Computing Practice Test 2025 – Complete Exam Prep

A switch port configured as an access port serves the primary function of connecting a device to the network without the complexities associated with VLAN tagging that trunk ports handle. When a port is set as an access port, it is typically assigned to a single VLAN. All incoming frames to that port are stripped of any VLAN tags when they exit the switch. This means that devices connected to an access port do not need to be aware of VLAN tags, as they communicate over a flat network segment.

The rationale behind this is to simplify connectivity for end devices, like computers or printers, that do not support VLAN tagging. Consequently, when frames are sent out from an access port to an end device, the VLAN tag, which is necessary for switches to manage traffic, is removed. This facilitates seamless communication for devices that do not need or understand VLANs.

In contrast, the other choices refer to functions that do not align with the nature of an access port. For example, adding a VLAN tag or allowing only specific VLAN-tagged data are functions associated with trunk ports, which handle multiple VLANs simultaneously. Similarly, forwarding frames without modification is more aligned with the behavior of switch ports under other circumstances but does not specifically address the VLAN handling that access ports are designed for.