Cisco Small and Medium Business Engineer (SMBE) Questions and Answers
Which optional Cisco product enhances workspaces within Remote SMB?
Options:
XDR
ISR 900
Catalyst Access Point
Meraki Cameras
Answer:
DExplanation:
Meraki Cameras are part of Cisco’s cloud-managed solutions that enhance remote SMB workspaces by providing security and connectivity. These cameras can be integrated into the network for monitoring and security purposes, offering a flexible and scalable solution that supports the needs of remote workers1.References := 1
Which global program scales Cisco’s technical resources via third party, services-only partners to provide the channel partners with access to validated expert resources?
Options:
Cisco U
MINT
GPSA
Cisco Service
Answer:
CExplanation:
The Global Partner Services Accelerator (GPSA) is the program that scales Cisco’s technical resources through third-party, services-only partners. This program is designed to provide channel partners with access to validated expert resources, enabling them to extend their capabilities and reach. The GPSA helps partners deliver a broader range of services by leveraging Cisco’s extensive technical knowledge base and support infrastructure1.
References :=
•Cisco Introduces Global Services Partner Program
•Cisco Global and Strategic Partners
•Global Partner Network - Cisco
The Global Partner Solution Advisors (GPSA) program is designed to enhance the capabilities of Cisco’s channel partners by providing them with access to expert technical resources. This program scales Cisco’s technical expertise through third-party, services-only partners, offering hands-on mentorship and coaching from Cisco’s expert engineers. Partners can submit active customer opportunities to GPSA, and a dedicated engineer works with the partner’s field engineers to build their technical practices and skills. This ensures partners can independently support future opportunities, aligning with Cisco’s strategy to empower its ecosystem.
Cisco U is an educational platform focused on training and certification, not a resource-scaling program via third-party partners. MINT is not a recognized Cisco program in this context (it might refer to a typo or unrelated term). Cisco Service is too vague and does not specifically match the description of a global program for scaling technical resources through third-party partners. GPSA directly aligns with the question’s focus on validated expert resources for channel partners.
References:Cisco’s official documentation on the GPSA program, available through partner portals like Sales Connect and the GPSA website (gpsa.cisco.com), emphasizes its role in providing no-cost technical mentorship to partners.
Which of the following are primary focuses of Cisco’s SMB strategy? (Choose three)
Options:
Migrating all services to cloud
Enhancing digital and physical security
Enabling IT teams
Reducing environmental impact
Empowering remote collaboration
Answer:
C, D, EExplanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:Cisco’s SMB strategy is tailored to address the unique needs of small and medium businesses, focusing on empowering their IT capabilities, supporting modern work trends, and aligning with broader business goals. The primary focuses include:
C. Enabling IT teams:Cisco empowers SMB IT teams—often small or nonexistent—with intuitive tools like Meraki’s cloud dashboard and DNA Spaces, simplifying network management and troubleshooting. This enables even limited staff to maintain robust IT operations, a core pillar of Cisco’s SMB approach.
D. Reducing environmental impact:Sustainability is increasingly part of Cisco’s strategy, with energy-efficient hardware (e.g., Catalyst switches) and cloud solutions reducing on-premises footprints. SMBs benefit from lower power costs and align with green initiatives, a focus Cisco promotes across its portfolio.
E. Empowering remote collaboration:With tools like Webex and Meraki, Cisco enables SMBs to support remote and hybrid workforces, enhancing collaboration and connectivity. This is a key focus as SMBs adapt to distributed teams, as seen in customer stories like REWE Group Austria.
A. Migrating all services to cloud:While Cisco leverages cloud solutions (e.g., Meraki, Umbrella), it doesn’t mandate full cloud migration; on-premises and hybrid options remain, making this not a primary focus but a flexible component.
B. Enhancing digital and physical security:Cisco excels in digital security (e.g., Umbrella, Secure Firewall), but physical security (e.g., surveillance) is handled by separate divisions (like Meraki cameras) and isn’t a unified SMB strategy focus—digital security alone is the priority.
C, D, and E reflect Cisco’s strategic priorities for SMBs, balancing IT empowerment, sustainability, and modern work enablement.
References:Cisco’s SMB Strategy overview (cisco.com/go/smb) and sustainability reports (cisco.com/go/sustainability) underscore IT enablement, environmental impact, and collaboration as key focuses, aligned with 700-750 SMBE exam objectives on SMB priorities and solutions.
Which Cisco product ensures that the right devices are connecting to the right application by the right person?
Options:
Duo
Webex
Meraki
Umbrella
Answer:
AExplanation:
The Cisco product that ensures the right devices are connecting to the right application by the right person is Duo. Duo is a multi-factor authentication (MFA) solution that verifies the identity of users and the health of their devices before they connect to the apps they use. This security measure helps prevent unauthorized access and potential breaches. Duo’s MFA requires two or more verification factors, which significantly increases security because even if one factor (like a password) is compromised, unauthorized users would still need the second factor to gain access1.
References :=
•Duo Security - Cisco
How are solutions tailored to meet unique SMB requirements for growth?
Options:
Provide general hands-on demonstrations.
Offer a one-size fits all package.
Offer varied payment plans and discounts for bundled products.
Upscale the customer so they do not have to upscale in the future.
Answer:
CExplanation:
Cisco tailors solutions to meet unique SMB requirements for growth by offering flexibility in payment plans and discounts for bundled products. This approach allows SMBs to invest in technology that scales with their growth, ensuring they can capitalize on new revenue opportunities without the burden of a significant upfront cost. Cisco’s solutions are designed to be flexible, scalable, and simple, supporting key business initiatives and innovations. Additionally, Cisco and its partners work closely with SMBs to understand their unique needs and select the right solutions and services, further personalizing the experience and offering. References := Cisco SMB Solutions, Cisco IT Decisions for SMBs, Cisco SMB Class Solutions
How is Cisco transforming the modern workplace?
Options:
investing in artificial intelligence and machine learning
by offering a range of solutions designed to enable, enhance, and empower the modern workplace experience
by modernizing public infrastructure
by focusing on products that drive increased revenue
Answer:
BExplanation:
Cisco is transforming the modern workplace by providing a suite of networking, security, cloud, and collaboration solutions that support businesses in adapting to new work environments. These solutions are aimed at creating Trusted Workplaces that enable a Safe Return to Office and support a Secure Remote Workforce. This includes technologies that automate and secure network connectivity, providesocial density and proximity insights for employee health and safety, and enable collaboration through tools like Webex, which leverage AI, sensors, and alerts to facilitate work from anywhere12.
References := Cisco Shapes the Future of Work, Cisco Powers Hybrid Work
Which selling concept represents an account manager selling a security solution that integrates with the customer's current Cisco networking solution?
Options:
cross-selling
multi-product selling
upselling
horizontal-selling
Answer:
AExplanation:
Cross-selling refers to the practice of selling additional products or services to an existing customer. In the context of Cisco Small and Medium Business Engineer, when an account manager sells a security solution that integrates with the customer’s current Cisco networking solution, it is considered cross-selling. This is because the security solution is complementary to the products the customer already uses, thereby providing an integrated and enhanced experience. Cross-selling is a strategic approach to provide customers with additional value, often leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty123. References :=
How does Cisco help SMBs to be truly smart?
Options:
employee automation
utilities cost control
operational inefficiencies
secure connectivity
Answer:
DExplanation:
Cisco aids SMBs in becoming truly smart by providing secure connectivity solutions. These solutions are designed to enable employees to work safely and reliably from anywhere, at any time. Cisco’s offerings, such as Meraki Wi-Fi for public or private connectivity, ensure speed, scale, and security. Additionally, Cisco’s smart office technology solutions leverage intelligent workplace technologies like Meraki cameras for security and smart building automation, and environmental sensors for a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future. This secure connectivity is fundamental to enabling smart operations and empowering SMBs to take advantage of digital opportunities.
References := Cisco Smart Office Technology Solutions for SMBs, Small and Medium Business Products - Cisco, The Smart SMB With Cisco’s Smart SMB.
The average number of SaaS application categories used by an SMB is 13. What does this mean for business?
Options:
more security vulnerabilities
less data with more contextualization
less system interactions
less distributed applications
Answer:
AExplanation:
The average use of 13 SaaS application categories by an SMB indicates a diverse range of software tools utilized in the business operations. This diversity can lead to more security vulnerabilities for several reasons:
1.Increased Attack Surface: Each SaaS application represents a potential entry point for security threats, so more applications mean a larger attack surface.
2.Complexity in Management: Managing security across multiple applications can be complex, increasing the chance of oversight or errors.
3.Integration Challenges: Integrating different SaaS applications can create security gaps, especially if they are not designed to work together seamlessly.
4.Varied Security Standards: Different SaaS providers may have different levels of security measures, and weaker security in one application can compromise the overall security posture.
Businesses must therefore be vigilant in implementing comprehensive security strategies that encompass all the SaaS applications they use.
References :=
•Average number of SaaS apps used worldwide 2022 | Statista
•50+ Essential SaaS Statistics You Need to Know in 2024 - Techopedia
•Saas Application Usage Maturing in Global SMB and Midmarket
•SMBs will want collaboration and line-of-business applications
What are three features of Webex? (Choose three.)
Options:
email threat defense
meetings
knowledge base
shared file folders
messaging
calling
Answer:
B, E, FExplanation:
Webex is known for its comprehensive suite of features that facilitate collaboration and communication in a business environment. The three key features of Webex include:
1.Meetings: Webex Meetings allows users to host and participate in video conferences with reliable audio and video quality, content sharing, and screen sharing capabilities1.
2.Messaging: Webex provides a messaging platform where team members can communicate through instant messages, share files, and collaborate in real-time1.
3.Calling: With Webex, users can make and receive calls over the internet, providing a unified communication experience that integrates with other Webex features1.
These features are designed to support a hybrid workforce, enabling seamless collaboration regardless of location.
References :=
•Cisco Webex | Webex Meetings | Features1.
•Meet the leader in web conferencing | Cisco Webex2. =========================
Which Cisco product is a solution offered for SMB experiences?
Options:
Stealthwatch
DNA Center
Catalyst IR Router
Meraki
Answer:
DExplanation:
Cisco Meraki is a comprehensive solution designed for SMBs that offers simple, secure, and scalable networking. It is a cloud-managed IT solution that provides wireless, switching, security, and devices that can be centrally managed from the web. This allows SMBs to streamline their operations and manage their network with ease, without needing extensive IT expertise12.References :=
What is a crucial concern for Hybrid SMBs?
Options:
complexity of applications
process automation
more data with too little contextualization
protect employees, devices, and company data
Answer:
DExplanation:
For Hybrid SMBs, a crucial concern is the protection of employees, devices, and company data. As businesses adopt hybrid work models, they face unique security challenges. These include securing data across different networks and devices, protecting against cyber threats in a more complex IT environment, and ensuring that employees can work safely from any location. Effective integration of technologies to ensure robust security is essential, requiring expertise and a strategic approach1.
References := The Importance of Hybrid Cloud for SMBs - Spiceworks
What is the main goal of Cisco's partner strategy in the SMB market?
Options:
To maximize profit margins
To align with SMB objectives
To reduce market presence
To increase product diversity
Answer:
BExplanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:Cisco’s partner strategy in the SMB market focuses on empowering partners to deliver solutions that align with the specific objectives of small and medium businesses. This involves understanding SMB needs—such as simplicity, affordability, and scalability—and enabling partners to provide tailored technology solutions that drive business outcomes like operational efficiency, security, and growth. Programs like the Cisco Partner Program and initiatives such as GPSA (Global Partner Solution Advisors) emphasize collaboration with partners to meet SMB goals, rather than solely focusing on Cisco’s profits or product diversity. For instance, Cisco equips partners with tools like the SMB Specialization and Business Value Demonstrations to ensure solutions resonate with SMB priorities, fostering long-term customer success over short-term financial gains.
A. To maximize profit margins:While profitability is important, Cisco’s strategy prioritizes partner enablement and customer success over purely maximizing margins, as evidenced by its investment in partner training and free resources like GPSA.
C. To reduce market presence:This contradicts Cisco’s goal of expanding its SMB market share through partners.
D. To increase product diversity:While Cisco offers diverse products, the primary aim is not diversity for its own sake but ensuring those products meet SMB needs effectively.
Thus, aligning with SMB objectives (B) is the core of Cisco’s partner strategy, as it builds trust and drives adoption in this segment.
References:Cisco Partner Program documentation (cisco.com/go/partners) and SMB-focused resources like the “SMB Partner Success Guide” highlight the focus on aligning with SMB goals to drive mutual success. The 700-750 SMBE exam objectives also emphasize understanding SMB needs and partner roles in meeting them.
Which Cisco solution allows the setup of virtual network topologies for non-production testing?
Options:
CVML
Cisco U
CML
Packet Tracker
Answer:
CExplanation:
Cisco Modeling Labs (CML) is the solution that allows the setup of virtual network topologies for non-production testing. It is a network simulation tool that enables users to design, build, visualize, and launch virtual network models. This is particularly useful for testing, development, and demonstration purposes without the need for physical hardware. CML provides an environment where network topologies can be modeled using virtual instances of Cisco operating systems, such as IOS, IOS-XE, IOS-XR, and NX-OS.
References :=
•The Cisco Virtual Topology System (VTS) User Guide provides an overview of the VTS, which is related to but distinct from CML, as it focuses on overlay management and provisioning for data center networks1.
•Additional information about Cisco’s virtual networking solutions can be found in the Cisco VTS User Guide, which details the provisioning of overlay networks2.
•For a comprehensive understanding of Cisco’s virtual networking capabilities, the Cisco Virtual Topology System 2.5.2 All-in-One v1 documentation offers scenarios that include creating tenant networks and attaching virtual machines, which are similar to the functionalities provided by CML3.
Which platform does Cisco use to enhance customer experiences through APIs and automation?
Options:
Cisco Meraki
Cisco DNA Center
Cisco Webex
Cisco DevNet
Answer:
DExplanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:Cisco DevNet is the platform Cisco uses to enhance customer experiences through APIs and automation. DevNet is a developer program and community that provides tools, resources, and APIs to integrateCisco technologies into custom applications and workflows. It empowers developers and businesses to automate processes, create tailored solutions, and improve user experiences by leveraging Cisco’s extensive API ecosystem (e.g., Meraki Dashboard API, Webex APIs). For SMBs, this means partners or IT teams can build integrations that streamline operations or enhance customer-facing services, such as automated ticketing systems or personalized network management dashboards.
A. Cisco Meraki:While Meraki offers a cloud-managed platform with some API capabilities, it’s primarily an end-user solution for networking, not a developer-focused platform for broader API and automation enhancement.
B. Cisco DNA Center:This is a network management and automation platform, but its APIs are specific to network operations, not a general customer experience enhancement tool like DevNet.
C. Cisco Webex:Webex supports collaboration with some API integration, but it’s a communication tool, not a comprehensive platform for API-driven customer experience innovation.
Cisco DevNet (D) stands out as the dedicated platform for API and automation-driven enhancements, serving both SMBs and enterprises.
References:Cisco DevNet’s official site (developer.cisco.com) and SMB-focused developer resources highlight its role in automation and API integration, aligned with the 700-750 SMBE exam topics on leveraging Cisco platforms for innovation.
How does Cisco empower SMBs to leverage market trends?
Options:
By offering competitive pricing only
By reducing their market presence
By providing tailored technological solutions
By limiting access to new technologies
Answer:
CExplanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:Cisco empowers SMBs to leverage market trends by providing tailored technological solutions that address evolving needs like hybrid work, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Products like Cisco Meraki (cloud-managed networking), Webex (collaboration), and Umbrella (security) are designed with SMBs in mind—offering simplicity, scalability, and affordability to capitalize on trends such as remote work or cloud adoption. Cisco’s SMB strategy includes partner enablement (e.g., SMB Specialization) and tools like Business Value Demonstrations, ensuring solutions fit specific SMB goals, whether it’s enhancing customer experiences or improving operational efficiency. This approach helps SMBs stay competitive in a dynamic market.
A. By offering competitive pricing only:While pricing is a factor, Cisco’s empowerment goes beyond cost, focusing on technology value and outcomes, not just affordability.
B. By reducing their market presence:This contradicts Cisco’s goal of expanding SMB market reach through partners and solutions.
D. By limiting access to new technologies:Cisco accelerates SMB access to innovations (e.g., AI-driven analytics, SD-WAN), not restricts it.
Providing tailored technological solutions (C) is the core of Cisco’s SMB empowerment strategy.
References:Cisco’s SMB Technology Solutions page (cisco.com/go/smb) and case studies like Mike’s Bikes show tailored solutions addressing market trends, aligned with the 700-750 SMBE exam focus on SMB market strategies.
Which Cisco-provided tool do partners use for a demo of the SMB Experiences?
Options:
CML
Meraki Demo Builder
VMware
BVD
Answer:
DExplanation:
Partners use Business Value Demonstrations (BVD) to demo the SMB Experiences provided by Cisco. BVDs are interactive tools that allow partners to showcase the value of Cisco solutions in a tangible and engaging way. They help in illustrating the potential benefits and operational efficiencies that Cisco’s solutions can bring to small and medium-sized businesses. By using BVDs, partners can effectively demonstrate how Cisco’s products and services can be tailored to meet the unique needs of the SMB market.
References:
•Cisco’s official exam overview, which includes a section on understanding Business Value Demonstrations1.
•Information on the Cisco Business Dashboard, which is another tool for managing Cisco solutions but not specifically for SMB Experiences demonstrations2.
•Blog post discussing the SMB Experience Explorer tool, which helps SMB customers find the right Cisco solutions3.
•Sign up page for learning more about the Cisco Experience Explorer, which is a lead generation tool for partners4.
What do SMBs need to be truly smart?
Options:
visibility for each process at each location separately
optimized customer and employee experiences by providing an environment that meets modern expectations
individually managed technology stacks
separate dashboards to provide intelligent monitoring with actionable insight and device manageability
Answer:
BExplanation:
To be truly smart, SMBs need to optimize customer and employee experiences by providing an environment that meets modern expectations. This involves leveraging technology to create a seamless, efficient, and responsive experience for both customers and employees. A smart SMB utilizes integrated solutions that enhance collaboration, productivity, and security, enabling the business to adapt quickly to market changes and customer needs. By focusing on the user experience, SMBs can drive innovation and growth, ensuring they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving business landscape1. References :=
•Cisco Smart Services for Small and Medium Business2.
•Investing in your success scaling SMB sales like never before1. =========================
What role does Cisco’s engineering programs play in SMB sales?
Options:
Decreasing product relevance
Reducing customer engagement
Enhancing technical sales knowledge
Limiting sales to technology experts
Answer:
CExplanation:
Comprehensive and Detailed In-Depth Explanation:Cisco’s engineering programs, such as the Global Partner Solution Advisors (GPSA) and technical training within the Cisco Partner Program, play a vital role in enhancing technical sales knowledge for SMB sales. These programs provide partners with access to Cisco’s expert engineers, who mentor sales teams and field engineers on product capabilities, deployment strategies, and customer use cases tailored to SMB needs. This technical expertise enables partners to articulate the value of Cisco solutions (e.g., Meraki, Umbrella) effectively, addressing SMB pain points like security, scalability, and simplicity. For instance, GPSA offers no-cost coaching on active deals, boosting partners’ ability to close sales by demonstrating deep technical understanding—key in a market where SMBs often lack in-house IT expertise and rely on partners for guidance.
A. Decreasing product relevance:This contradicts the purpose of engineering programs, which aim to increase relevance by aligning solutions with SMB needs.
B. Reducing customer engagement:These programs enhance engagement by equipping partners to better address customer questions and concerns.
D. Limiting sales to technology experts:Rather than restricting sales, the programs democratize technical knowledge, enabling a broader range of sales teams to succeed without requiring them to be technology experts initially.
Enhancing technical sales knowledge (C) directly supports Cisco’s goal of driving SMB adoption through informed, capable partners.
References:Cisco Partner Program resources (cisco.com/go/partners) and GPSA documentation (gpsa.cisco.com) emphasize technical enablement for sales success, aligned with the 700-750 SMBE exam focus on partner capabilities in SMB markets.