Designing and Implementing Cisco Network Programmability Exam – Practice Test
Master the evolving landscape of modern network automation with this comprehensive Designing and Implementing Cisco Network Programmability Exam practice test, now available on Exam Sage. Whether you’re a networking professional, a Cisco certification candidate, or a systems engineer ready to advance your automation skills, this exam preparation tool is your essential resource for success.
✅ What Is the Designing and Implementing Cisco Network Programmability Exam?
The Designing and Implementing Cisco Network Programmability Exam focuses on equipping candidates with the knowledge and skills necessary to implement automation and programmability across enterprise network architectures. This exam tests your ability to use APIs, data models, and modern programming frameworks to streamline network operations and automate network functions.
As organizations shift toward intent-based networking and software-defined infrastructure, Cisco’s network programmability certifications become more critical than ever. This practice exam provides you with a real-world learning experience to prepare for one of Cisco’s most forward-looking certifications.
🎯 What You Will Learn
By preparing with this practice test, you will gain mastery over the following key competencies:
Automating enterprise networking solutions using modern tools and frameworks
Leveraging Cisco DNA Center, ACI, SD-WAN, and REST APIs for programmability
Using YANG, NETCONF, RESTCONF, and gRPC/gNMI for data modeling and automation
Integrating Python, Ansible, and model-driven telemetry in enterprise networks
Applying DevOps methodologies to network infrastructure
Designing scalable automation solutions that meet security and compliance requirements
This exam prep ensures you’re fully equipped to work with programmable networks and to support the transformation to digital-ready infrastructures.
📘 Topics Covered
This practice test covers all critical domains aligned with the official Cisco blueprint, including:
Network Automation Fundamentals: Benefits of automation, API types, and automation protocols
Cisco DNA Center & SD-WAN: Intent-based networking, policy creation, and automated workflows
Cisco ACI and Application Profiles: Bridge domains, endpoint groups, and contracts
APIs and Data Models: Working with REST, RESTCONF, NETCONF, gRPC/gNMI, and YANG models
Programmability Tools: Python scripting, Ansible automation, Terraform basics
Model-Driven Telemetry: Real-time streaming data, telemetry subscriptions
Security and Compliance: Role-based access control, secure API usage, and configuration locks
Each question in this exam is designed to challenge your understanding and deepen your knowledge through detailed explanations.
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✅ High-Quality Practice Tests: Realistic scenarios and exam-level questions
✅ Detailed Explanations: Understand the reasoning behind each correct answer
✅ Regularly Updated Content: Stay current with Cisco’s evolving technologies
✅ Focused Learning: Practice by topic or simulate the full exam
✅ Immediate Access: Download instantly and start preparing today
Whether you’re preparing for a job role in automation or aiming to pass your Cisco certification exam, this practice test from Exam Sage gives you the confidence to move forward.
🚀 Prepare Today and Automate Tomorrow
The future of networking is programmable. Don’t fall behind. With this comprehensive Cisco Network Programmability practice test, you’re not only preparing for an exam — you’re building the skills needed to shape the networks of tomorrow.
Sample Questions and Answers
1. What is the primary benefit of using model-driven programmability in a network environment?
A. Improved CLI performance
B. Automated GUI management
C. Standardized device configuration using models
D. Replacing hardware with virtual appliances
Answer: C
Explanation: Model-driven programmability enables consistent and standardized device configurations using data models like YANG, which facilitates automation and simplifies network operations.
2. Which protocol is commonly used for streaming telemetry data in model-driven telemetry?
A. SNMP
B. Syslog
C. gRPC
D. SSH
Answer: C
Explanation: gRPC is a high-performance RPC framework widely used in model-driven telemetry to stream data efficiently in real-time.
3. In Cisco network programmability, what does NETCONF stand for?
A. Network Configuration Format
B. Network Configuration Framework
C. Network Configuration Protocol
D. New Edge Transport Configuration
Answer: C
Explanation: NETCONF (Network Configuration Protocol) is a standard protocol used to manage configurations on network devices using YANG models.
4. Which data modeling language is most associated with model-driven programmability?
A. YAML
B. YANG
C. XML
D. JSON
Answer: B
Explanation: YANG (Yet Another Next Generation) is the primary modeling language for defining data sent over NETCONF or RESTCONF.
5. What is a key feature of RESTCONF compared to NETCONF?
A. Uses binary encoding
B. Operates over HTTPS using RESTful APIs
C. Requires a special client
D. Works only with proprietary devices
Answer: B
Explanation: RESTCONF provides a RESTful interface over HTTPS for accessing data modeled with YANG, making it simpler for web developers.
6. Which Cisco platform is best suited for enabling network programmability at the edge?
A. Catalyst 2900
B. Cisco Nexus 3000
C. Cisco DNA Center
D. Cisco ISR 1000
Answer: C
Explanation: Cisco DNA Center is a controller-based platform that provides centralized network programmability and automation.
7. What does the acronym SDN stand for?
A. Software-Defined Networking
B. Secure Device Networking
C. Service Delivery Network
D. Standard Device Node
Answer: A
Explanation: SDN (Software-Defined Networking) abstracts the control plane from the data plane, enabling centralized control of the network.
8. In the Cisco SDN architecture, which layer interacts with the network devices?
A. Application Layer
B. Control Layer
C. Infrastructure Layer
D. Abstraction Layer
Answer: C
Explanation: The Infrastructure Layer comprises network devices and is controlled by the Control Layer in the SDN model.
9. Which protocol allows the network controller to program flow tables in SDN switches?
A. SNMP
B. OpenFlow
C. NETCONF
D. gRPC
Answer: B
Explanation: OpenFlow is a protocol that allows SDN controllers to interact directly with forwarding planes of network devices.
10. What are the advantages of using APIs in network programmability? (Choose two)
A. Vendor lock-in
B. Automated and scalable management
C. CLI replacement only
D. Integration with DevOps tools
E. Increase in manual effort
Answer: B, D
Explanation: APIs enable automation and integration with DevOps tools like Ansible, making network management scalable and programmable.
11. Which data format is typically used for RESTCONF responses?
A. YAML
B. HTML
C. XML or JSON
D. CSV
Answer: C
Explanation: RESTCONF supports both XML and JSON as encoding formats for responses.
12. Which tool can you use to simulate and test REST APIs for Cisco devices?
A. Packet Tracer
B. GNS3
C. Postman
D. Cisco IOS-XE
Answer: C
Explanation: Postman is a popular API client used to test and automate REST APIs including those used in Cisco network programmability.
13. What is the role of YANG in network programmability?
A. Data storage
B. Device discovery
C. Data modeling
D. Packet forwarding
Answer: C
Explanation: YANG defines the data models used to represent configuration and state data for use in NETCONF and RESTCONF.
14. Which layer of SDN architecture is responsible for defining business logic?
A. Infrastructure Layer
B. Application Layer
C. Data Plane
D. Transport Layer
Answer: B
Explanation: The Application Layer in SDN includes the business applications that define network behavior and interact via APIs with the controller.
15. What does a network controller do in SDN?
A. Routes packets directly
B. Monitors hardware temperature
C. Manages network policies and configurations
D. Acts as a switch
Answer: C
Explanation: The controller centralizes the control plane and manages policies, configurations, and network intelligence.
16. What is Cisco NSO used for?
A. Network simulation
B. Security monitoring
C. Network automation and orchestration
D. DNS management
Answer: C
Explanation: Cisco NSO (Network Services Orchestrator) automates service provisioning and lifecycle management across multi-vendor networks.
17. Which interface type does Cisco DNA Center primarily expose for automation?
A. SNMP
B. CLI
C. RESTful APIs
D. Telnet
Answer: C
Explanation: DNA Center provides RESTful APIs for developers to automate and integrate network operations.
18. Which Python library is commonly used to interact with REST APIs?
A. flask
B. os
C. requests
D. sys
Answer: C
Explanation: The requests library is widely used in Python for making HTTP requests to REST APIs.
19. What does CRUD stand for in the context of APIs?
A. Create, Read, Update, Delete
B. Connect, Remove, Use, Drop
C. Control, Regulate, Update, Debug
D. Clean, Rewrite, Undo, Deliver
Answer: A
Explanation: CRUD operations form the basic functionality provided by RESTful APIs for manipulating resources.
20. What is the benefit of using Python in network programmability?
A. Platform-specific scripting
B. Complex syntax
C. Readability and rich library support
D. Low performance
Answer: C
Explanation: Python is widely used due to its simple syntax and availability of libraries suited for networking and API interactions.
21. Which Python package helps in handling YANG models?
A. yangtools
B. ncclient
C. pyyaml
D. netmiko
Answer: B
Explanation: ncclient is a Python library that allows interaction with network devices using NETCONF and YANG models.
22. What is the purpose of Ansible in network automation?
A. Firewall configuration
B. Orchestration and configuration management
C. Debugging code
D. Server load balancing
Answer: B
Explanation: Ansible automates tasks like configuration management, deployment, and orchestration across network devices.
23. Which command initializes a Python virtual environment?
A. python init env
B. virtualenv start
C. python -m venv myenv
D. py create env
Answer: C
Explanation: The command python -m venv myenv is used to create an isolated Python environment for development.
24. Which open-source tool provides a controller for SDN networks?
A. Wireshark
B. OpenDaylight
C. SNMP Trap
D. RESTCONF
Answer: B
Explanation: OpenDaylight is an open-source SDN controller used to manage networks using standard protocols.
25. What is the purpose of model-driven telemetry?
A. To configure devices
B. To send logs via SNMP
C. To push structured data to collectors in real-time
D. To emulate routers
Answer: C
Explanation: Model-driven telemetry enables the real-time export of structured data (like interface stats) from devices using YANG models.
26. What kind of API is typically used in Cisco’s DNA Center?
A. SOAP
B. REST
C. SNMP
D. CLI
Answer: B
Explanation: Cisco DNA Center uses RESTful APIs for interacting with network resources.
27. What kind of data is defined using YANG models?
A. Streaming-only data
B. Configuration and operational state data
C. Log files
D. Binary telemetry
Answer: B
Explanation: YANG models define both configuration and operational state data in a structured way.
28. Which of the following is a benefit of using NetDevOps?
A. Manual configuration
B. CLI scripting only
C. Integrating network operations with CI/CD pipelines
D. Static routing
Answer: C
Explanation: NetDevOps applies DevOps principles like CI/CD to network operations for agility and automation.
29. Which REST method is typically used to update a resource?
A. GET
B. PUT
C. DELETE
D. POST
Answer: B
Explanation: PUT is used to update or replace a resource in RESTful APIs.
30. In the context of network APIs, what is a resource?
A. Hardware router
B. A device name
C. An abstraction representing a network entity
D. A log message
Answer: C
Explanation: In REST APIs, a resource is a conceptual object (e.g., device, interface) that can be manipulated using HTTP methods.
31. Which HTTP method is not idempotent in REST APIs?
A. GET
B. PUT
C. POST
D. DELETE
Answer: C
Explanation: POST is not idempotent because repeated requests can result in multiple resource creations or other side effects.
32. What is the main function of Cisco PyATS?
A. Creating YANG models
B. Network traffic shaping
C. Network testing and validation
D. Virtual machine management
Answer: C
Explanation: PyATS (Python Automated Test System) is a Cisco-developed Python-based framework for automated testing and network validation.
33. Which tool is used to interact with Cisco’s DevNet APIs for learning and testing?
A. GNS3
B. DevNet Sandbox
C. Packet Tracer
D. VirtualBox
Answer: B
Explanation: DevNet Sandbox provides a free, cloud-based environment to interact with Cisco APIs and network programmability tools.
34. Which of the following is a key advantage of using gNMI (gRPC Network Management Interface)?
A. CLI-based scripting
B. Pull-only telemetry
C. Secure, efficient telemetry via gRPC
D. Proprietary data format
Answer: C
Explanation: gNMI leverages gRPC for efficient, secure model-driven telemetry and configuration across network devices.
35. What does the Cisco VIRL platform offer?
A. Real-time production deployment
B. Simulation of virtual network topologies
C. Hardware installation services
D. Cisco licensing management
Answer: B
Explanation: Cisco VIRL (Virtual Internet Routing Lab) is used to simulate complex network topologies in a virtual environment for training and testing.
36. What is the default port used by NETCONF over SSH?
A. 830
B. 22
C. 443
D. 161
Answer: A
Explanation: NETCONF over SSH typically runs on TCP port 830.
37. What does Cisco DNA Assurance provide?
A. Security firewall configuration
B. Physical cabling documentation
C. Analytics and insights on network health
D. Email alerts only
Answer: C
Explanation: Cisco DNA Assurance offers real-time analytics and insights for proactive network performance and issue detection.
38. Which CLI command enables NETCONF on a Cisco IOS-XE device?
A. enable netconf
B. netconf start
C. netconf-yang
D. restconf enable
Answer: C
Explanation: The correct CLI command to enable NETCONF on IOS-XE is netconf-yang.
39. What is a benefit of separating control and data planes in SDN?
A. Increased manual control
B. Simplified device configuration
C. Decentralized policy enforcement
D. Direct connection between users and hardware
Answer: B
Explanation: Separating control and data planes allows centralized control and simplifies device configuration and policy management.
40. In Cisco’s NSO, what does the “commit dry-run” command do?
A. Applies changes directly
B. Validates changes without applying them
C. Removes configuration changes
D. Saves logs to disk
Answer: B
Explanation: “commit dry-run” shows the configuration changes that would be made, allowing for validation before actual deployment.
41. Which Cisco platform is most suited for managing SD-WAN programmability?
A. ACI
B. ISE
C. vManage
D. UCS
Answer: C
Explanation: Cisco vManage is the controller platform for configuring, monitoring, and programming Cisco SD-WAN environments.
42. In NETCONF, what is the function of the <edit-config> operation?
A. Remove device settings
B. Commit current running config
C. Apply configuration changes
D. Reset device
Answer: C
Explanation: <edit-config> is used in NETCONF to send new or updated configuration data to the target device.
43. What type of architecture does Cisco ACI use?
A. Layer 3 switching
B. Centralized firewalling
C. Leaf-Spine
D. Bus topology
Answer: C
Explanation: Cisco ACI uses a Leaf-Spine architecture to enable high-speed and scalable data center networking.
44. What does “Idempotent” mean in the context of REST APIs?
A. Request changes each time
B. Generates unique tokens
C. Multiple requests have the same effect as one
D. Only usable with POST requests
Answer: C
Explanation: An idempotent operation yields the same result no matter how many times it is performed.
45. What does a REST API endpoint represent?
A. IP address of the network device
B. Command line interface
C. URL for accessing a specific resource
D. The database path
Answer: C
Explanation: A REST API endpoint is the URL that identifies the resource the API interacts with.
46. Which protocol provides secure communication for NETCONF?
A. Telnet
B. HTTP
C. SSH
D. TFTP
Answer: C
Explanation: NETCONF commonly uses SSH to provide secure transport.
47. What is the advantage of declarative configuration in network automation?
A. Requires more CLI commands
B. Specifies what the final state should be
C. Focuses only on the sequence of steps
D. Adds more complexity
Answer: B
Explanation: Declarative configuration defines the desired end state, allowing automation tools to determine how to achieve it.
48. In Cisco ACI, what is an EPG (Endpoint Group)?
A. A routing table entry
B. A group of users with shared VLANs
C. A logical grouping of endpoints with similar policies
D. A firewall zone
Answer: C
Explanation: An Endpoint Group in ACI defines a logical set of devices that share the same network policies.
49. What is the Cisco DevNet used for?
A. Network hardware sales
B. API key generation
C. Developer resources for automation, APIs, and programmability
D. Firewall administration
Answer: C
Explanation: Cisco DevNet is a community and platform for developers focusing on APIs, automation, and network programmability.
50. What kind of interface does RESTCONF use?
A. SSH
B. SNMP
C. REST over HTTP/HTTPS
D. Telnet
Answer: C
Explanation: RESTCONF operates over HTTP or HTTPS using RESTful principles for accessing network device configuration and operational data.
51. What is the main purpose of the Cisco Yang Suite?
A. CLI replacement
B. Simulating L3 routing
C. Browsing and testing YANG models and APIs
D. Packet analysis
Answer: C
Explanation: Cisco YANG Suite provides a GUI-based interface to interact with and validate YANG models and associated network APIs.
52. What is the use of Postman environments in API testing?
A. For encryption
B. For reusing variable values across requests
C. To store HTTP status codes
D. To configure routers
Answer: B
Explanation: Environments in Postman allow users to set reusable variables like tokens, URLs, and parameters across multiple API requests.
53. Which tool converts YANG models to JSON schemas?
A. yang2json
B. pyang
C. yang-parser
D. NetconfTools
Answer: B
Explanation: Pyang is a YANG validator and converter that supports exporting YANG models into formats like JSON schema.
54. Which of the following is not a component of the Cisco ACI architecture?
A. APIC
B. Spine
C. Leaf
D. Edge Router
Answer: D
Explanation: Cisco ACI includes APIC (controller), spines, and leaves, but not a dedicated “edge router” component.
55. What kind of data is stored in the operational datastore in NETCONF?
A. Intended configuration
B. Hardware inventory
C. Real-time device state
D. Device logs
Answer: C
Explanation: The operational datastore holds real-time device state information, such as interface status and counters.
