DevNet Associate (DEVASC) Exam Practice Test
Are you preparing for the Cisco DevNet Associate (DEVASC) certification? The DevNet Associate exam is an essential stepping stone for IT professionals aiming to validate their skills in developing and maintaining applications built on Cisco platforms. This exam tests your knowledge of software development, automation, and Cisco infrastructure — critical skills in today’s network automation and software-defined networking landscape.
What Is the DevNet Associate (DEVASC) Exam?
The DevNet Associate exam (200-901 DEVASC) evaluates foundational knowledge of Cisco’s software development and automation technologies. It covers the basics of network programmability, software development, and the ability to use Cisco APIs effectively. Passing this exam certifies your capability to develop applications, automate network operations, and collaborate within DevOps teams, boosting your career in network automation.
What Will You Learn Preparing for This Exam?
By studying for the DevNet Associate certification, you will gain proficiency in:
Software Development and Design: Understanding software development lifecycle, APIs, and writing code with Python.
Cisco Platforms and Development: Learning how to interact with Cisco devices using REST APIs and understand Cisco infrastructure components.
Application Deployment and Security: Familiarity with application deployment models, containerization, and securing network applications.
Network Fundamentals: Basic knowledge of networking protocols, models, and infrastructure that support automation.
Automation and Programmability: Mastering automation tools such as Ansible and scripting network tasks using Python.
Key Topics Covered in This Exam
Understanding and utilizing Cisco APIs and Cisco platforms
Programming and scripting with Python and related libraries
Network fundamentals, including IP addressing, subnetting, and routing basics
Infrastructure automation using REST APIs, Ansible, and DevOps methodologies
Application deployment, container orchestration (e.g., Kubernetes), and security best practices
Troubleshooting and debugging automation solutions
Why Choose Exam Sage for Your DevNet Associate Exam Preparation?
ExamSage.com offers comprehensive and expertly crafted practice tests designed to mimic the actual DevNet Associate exam environment. Our practice questions are:
Updated regularly to reflect the latest exam objectives and technologies
Detailed with clear explanations so you understand the reasoning behind each answer
Designed for realistic exam simulation, helping you build confidence and improve your time management
With Exam Sage, you don’t just practice questions — you gain deep insights and mastery over all exam topics. Our platform also offers flexible test-taking options, instant scoring, and progress tracking, enabling you to identify your strengths and focus on areas that need improvement.
Start your journey to Cisco DevNet Associate certification success today with Exam Sage’s DevNet Associate Practice Tests — the smart way to prepare, learn, and pass!
Sample Questions and Answers
1. Which protocol does REST API primarily use for communication?
A) FTP
B) HTTP
C) SMTP
D) SSH
Answer: B) HTTP
Explanation: REST APIs commonly use HTTP as the transport protocol for communication, leveraging standard HTTP methods like GET, POST, PUT, and DELETE.
2. What is the purpose of the JSON data format in network automation?
A) To encrypt data
B) To provide a lightweight, human-readable way to exchange data
C) To compress files
D) To execute commands on routers
Answer: B) To provide a lightweight, human-readable way to exchange data
Explanation: JSON is used in network automation to structure data in an easy-to-read and lightweight format that APIs commonly consume and produce.
3. Which Python library is commonly used for making REST API calls?
A) NumPy
B) Pandas
C) Requests
D) Matplotlib
Answer: C) Requests
Explanation: The Requests library is popular in Python for sending HTTP/HTTPS requests to REST APIs in an easy and user-friendly way.
4. What does the command netmiko.ConnectHandler() do in network automation?
A) Opens a connection to a device using SSH
B) Sends an email notification
C) Parses JSON files
D) Starts a local web server
Answer: A) Opens a connection to a device using SSH
Explanation: Netmiko is a Python library to simplify SSH connections to network devices; ConnectHandler() is used to establish the SSH session.
5. Which Cisco DevNet Sandbox environment would you use for testing IOS XE devices?
A) IOS XR Sandbox
B) IOS XE Sandbox
C) NX-OS Sandbox
D) Catalyst 9000 Sandbox
Answer: B) IOS XE Sandbox
Explanation: Cisco DevNet provides sandbox environments that simulate real devices; for IOS XE software, the IOS XE Sandbox is specifically designed for testing.
6. What type of authentication does OAuth 2.0 provide for REST APIs?
A) Basic Authentication
B) Token-based Authentication
C) IP Whitelisting
D) Password Authentication
Answer: B) Token-based Authentication
Explanation: OAuth 2.0 uses tokens to allow secure and delegated access to APIs without sharing passwords.
7. In Python, what data type is best suited to parse JSON data?
A) Tuple
B) List
C) Dictionary
D) Set
Answer: C) Dictionary
Explanation: When JSON data is loaded in Python using json.loads(), it is converted into a dictionary, which maps key-value pairs.
8. Which protocol is primarily used by NETCONF for device communication?
A) HTTP
B) SSH
C) Telnet
D) FTP
Answer: B) SSH
Explanation: NETCONF typically uses SSH as the secure transport protocol to communicate with network devices.
9. What is the purpose of Cisco DNA Center in network automation?
A) Physical cabling design
B) Centralized network automation and assurance platform
C) Hardware firewall configuration
D) IP address allocation
Answer: B) Centralized network automation and assurance platform
Explanation: Cisco DNA Center provides a centralized platform to automate and assure network operations including device provisioning and policy management.
10. Which HTTP method is used to update an existing resource via a REST API?
A) GET
B) POST
C) PUT
D) DELETE
Answer: C) PUT
Explanation: PUT is typically used in REST APIs to replace or update a resource with the provided data.
11. What does the acronym “IaC” stand for in network automation?
A) Infrastructure as Code
B) Internet and Cloud
C) Internal Access Control
D) Integrated Automation Controller
Answer: A) Infrastructure as Code
Explanation: IaC is the practice of managing and provisioning computing infrastructure through code instead of manual processes.
12. Which Cisco API allows you to interact programmatically with network devices running IOS XE?
A) RESTCONF
B) SNMP
C) FTP
D) Telnet
Answer: A) RESTCONF
Explanation: RESTCONF is a REST-like protocol used to interact with network devices that support YANG data models, including IOS XE devices.
13. What is the main function of Ansible in network automation?
A) Packet sniffing
B) Configuring and managing network devices using playbooks
C) Hardware diagnostics
D) Performance monitoring
Answer: B) Configuring and managing network devices using playbooks
Explanation: Ansible uses playbooks, which are YAML files, to automate configuration management across devices.
14. Which data format is typically used for YANG models in network automation?
A) XML
B) CSV
C) TXT
D) DOC
Answer: A) XML
Explanation: YANG models often use XML format for configuration data and device communication, although JSON is also supported.
15. In DevNet learning, what is the main benefit of using SDKs (Software Development Kits)?
A) To provide ready-made libraries to interact with APIs efficiently
B) To design hardware components
C) To create graphic interfaces
D) To monitor network traffic
Answer: A) To provide ready-made libraries to interact with APIs efficiently
Explanation: SDKs simplify development by offering pre-built functions and classes to work with APIs.
16. Which port does the REST API usually listen on by default?
A) 22
B) 80
C) 443
D) 161
Answer: C) 443
Explanation: REST APIs over HTTPS typically use port 443 for secure communication.
17. Which Python module helps in scheduling repeated tasks or running scripts at intervals?
A) time
B) sched
C) threading
D) socket
Answer: B) sched
Explanation: The sched module in Python can be used to schedule periodic tasks and automate repetitive processes.
18. What type of device data is typically retrieved using SNMP?
A) Configuration files
B) Performance statistics and device status
C) API keys
D) User passwords
Answer: B) Performance statistics and device status
Explanation: SNMP is widely used for monitoring network devices by querying statistics like CPU load and interface traffic.
19. What is the key benefit of using Python in network automation?
A) Python is hardware-specific
B) Python is widely supported with rich libraries and simple syntax
C) Python requires complex installation
D) Python is only used for web development
Answer: B) Python is widely supported with rich libraries and simple syntax
Explanation: Python’s popularity and vast ecosystem make it ideal for automating network tasks efficiently.
20. What is a common use of Cisco Meraki APIs?
A) Configure local routers only
B) Manage and monitor cloud-managed Meraki devices
C) Encrypt network traffic
D) Backup router configurations
Answer: B) Manage and monitor cloud-managed Meraki devices
Explanation: Cisco Meraki APIs enable interaction with cloud-managed networks for automation and monitoring.
21. Which HTTP status code indicates a successful GET request?
A) 404
B) 500
C) 200
D) 403
Answer: C) 200
Explanation: Status code 200 means the request was successful and the server has returned the requested data.
22. What is the purpose of using virtual environments (venv) in Python for network automation projects?
A) To run multiple Python versions simultaneously
B) To isolate project dependencies and avoid conflicts
C) To improve Python performance
D) To write code faster
Answer: B) To isolate project dependencies and avoid conflicts
Explanation: Virtual environments help manage packages on a per-project basis without affecting the global Python installation.
23. What is Cisco OnePK?
A) A type of router
B) A Python-based network programming SDK
C) A firewall software
D) A VPN solution
Answer: B) A Python-based network programming SDK
Explanation: Cisco OnePK allows developers to program network devices via Python APIs.
24. What is the role of Webhooks in network automation?
A) To schedule commands
B) To allow real-time notifications triggered by events
C) To monitor SNMP traps
D) To configure devices manually
Answer: B) To allow real-time notifications triggered by events
Explanation: Webhooks are HTTP callbacks that notify a system when specific events occur, enabling automation workflows.
25. Which of the following is NOT a network automation tool?
A) Ansible
B) Puppet
C) Docker
D) Chef
Answer: C) Docker
Explanation: Docker is a containerization platform, not primarily a network automation tool.
26. What does the “Cisco DevNet” platform provide?
A) Only software downloads
B) Developer resources including sandboxes, learning labs, APIs, and SDKs
C) Hardware for sale
D) VPN services
Answer: B) Developer resources including sandboxes, learning labs, APIs, and SDKs
Explanation: Cisco DevNet offers resources for developers to learn and build network automation solutions.
27. What command would you use to install the Requests library in Python?
A) pip install requests
B) install requests
C) get requests
D) python add requests
Answer: A) pip install requests
Explanation: pip is Python’s package manager; pip install requests downloads and installs the Requests library.
28. Which HTTP method is idempotent, meaning multiple identical requests have the same effect as one?
A) POST
B) GET
C) PUT
D) DELETE
Answer: C) PUT
Explanation: PUT is idempotent because multiple identical requests will update the resource to the same state.
29. In API testing, what tool is commonly used for sending HTTP requests and inspecting responses?
A) Wireshark
B) Postman
C) Nmap
D) Cisco Packet Tracer
Answer: B) Postman
Explanation: Postman is a widely used tool for testing and debugging APIs by sending requests and viewing responses.
30. Which data serialization format is commonly used in REST APIs besides JSON?
A) YAML
B) XML
C) TXT
D) CSV
Answer: B) XML
Explanation: XML is another common data format for API communication, especially in older or enterprise systems.
31. What command in Python is used to convert a Python dictionary into a JSON string?
A) json.dumps()
B) json.loads()
C) json.stringify()
D) json.tojson()
Answer: A) json.dumps()
Explanation: json.dumps() serializes a Python dictionary into a JSON formatted string.
32. Which Cisco protocol uses YANG data models to programmatically manage devices?
A) SNMP
B) NETCONF
C) FTP
D) Telnet
Answer: B) NETCONF
Explanation: NETCONF is a protocol designed for managing network devices using YANG data models.
33. In REST API design, what does the term ‘stateless’ mean?
A) The server maintains the client session state
B) Each request is independent and contains all necessary information
C) The client saves the server state
D) State is saved in cookies only
Answer: B) Each request is independent and contains all necessary information
Explanation: REST APIs are stateless, meaning the server does not keep client session data between requests.
34. What is the purpose of the ‘headers’ in an HTTP request?
A) To specify the URL path
B) To provide metadata like content type and authorization credentials
C) To hold the body of the request
D) To indicate the response time
Answer: B) To provide metadata like content type and authorization credentials
Explanation: Headers carry important metadata that informs the server about the request context.
35. Which of the following is a declarative automation tool?
A) Python scripting
B) Ansible playbooks
C) Bash scripting
D) Manual CLI commands
Answer: B) Ansible playbooks
Explanation: Ansible playbooks define the desired state in a declarative manner, specifying what the end state should be.
36. What Python construct is used to handle exceptions during API calls?
A) try-except
B) if-else
C) for loop
D) switch-case
Answer: A) try-except
Explanation: The try-except block handles runtime errors and exceptions gracefully in Python.
37. What HTTP response code indicates that a resource was not found?
A) 200
B) 301
C) 404
D) 500
Answer: C) 404
Explanation: 404 means the requested resource is not available on the server.
38. Which of these is NOT a feature of Cisco DNA Center?
A) Automated network provisioning
B) Network assurance with analytics
C) Physical hardware installation
D) Policy enforcement
Answer: C) Physical hardware installation
Explanation: Cisco DNA Center is a software platform and does not perform physical hardware installation.
39. What Python library is commonly used for data manipulation and analysis, helpful in network data processing?
A) NumPy
B) Pandas
C) Requests
D) Flask
Answer: B) Pandas
Explanation: Pandas provides powerful data structures like DataFrames for data manipulation and analysis.
40. In API security, what does the acronym JWT stand for?
A) Java Web Token
B) JSON Web Token
C) Java Workflow Template
D) JSON Workflow Token
Answer: B) JSON Web Token
Explanation: JWT is a compact, URL-safe token format used to securely transmit information between parties.
41. Which command in Python is used to install external packages?
A) python add package
B) pip install package-name
C) python setup package
D) install package-name
Answer: B) pip install package-name
Explanation: pip is Python’s package installer used to add external libraries.
42. What is the main advantage of using Cisco DevNet sandboxes?
A) Free access to physical routers
B) Safe, virtualized environment to test APIs and automation code
C) Automated exam preparation
D) Email server hosting
Answer: B) Safe, virtualized environment to test APIs and automation code
Explanation: Sandboxes allow developers to experiment without impacting production networks.
43. Which type of API call retrieves data without modifying the resource?
A) POST
B) GET
C) PUT
D) DELETE
Answer: B) GET
Explanation: GET requests fetch data and do not cause side effects on the server.
44. What kind of data does YAML format support that makes it popular for configuration files?
A) Complex data structures including lists and dictionaries
B) Only plain text
C) Binary data
D) Encrypted files
Answer: A) Complex data structures including lists and dictionaries
Explanation: YAML is human-readable and supports hierarchical data, perfect for configurations.
45. Which Python method reads a file line by line?
A) read()
B) readline()
C) readlines()
D) open()
Answer: B) readline()
Explanation: readline() reads one line at a time from an open file.
46. What is the significance of idempotency in REST API methods?
A) Methods always change the resource
B) Multiple identical requests have the same effect as one request
C) Requests are always ignored
D) Methods delete resources automatically
Answer: B) Multiple identical requests have the same effect as one request
Explanation: Idempotent methods avoid unintended side effects when called multiple times.
47. What is the function of a ‘playbook’ in Ansible?
A) A Python script
B) A configuration file that describes automation tasks
C) A CLI command
D) A networking protocol
Answer: B) A configuration file that describes automation tasks
Explanation: Playbooks define automation workflows using YAML.
48. What HTTP status code indicates that the server encountered an internal error?
A) 200
B) 404
C) 500
D) 301
Answer: C) 500
Explanation: 500 indicates a server-side internal error.
49. In DevNet, which tool is used to monitor API performance and troubleshoot issues?
A) Postman
B) Swagger
C) Wireshark
D) Cisco DNA Center
Answer: B) Swagger
Explanation: Swagger provides API documentation and testing, helping monitor and debug APIs.
50. Which programming language is predominantly used in DevNet for automation and scripting?
A) Java
B) C++
C) Python
D) Ruby
Answer: C) Python
Explanation: Python is widely used due to its simplicity and extensive libraries.
51. What is a benefit of using RESTCONF over REST APIs?
A) Supports YANG models for structured data interaction
B) It uses Telnet for transport
C) Only works with Cisco routers
D) No security features
Answer: A) Supports YANG models for structured data interaction
Explanation: RESTCONF integrates REST principles with YANG data modeling.
52. What is the default port used by SSH for device management?
A) 22
B) 80
C) 23
D) 443
Answer: A) 22
Explanation: SSH uses port 22 by default for secure command-line access.
53. What does the ‘assert’ statement do in Python testing scripts?
A) Prints output
B) Checks if a condition is True, otherwise raises an error
C) Declares variables
D) Runs a loop
Answer: B) Checks if a condition is True, otherwise raises an error
Explanation: Assertions are used to verify that test conditions hold true.
54. In API development, what does CORS stand for?
A) Cross-Origin Resource Sharing
B) Centralized Object Routing System
C) Content Object Resource Sharing
D) Common Origin Resource Service
Answer: A) Cross-Origin Resource Sharing
Explanation: CORS defines browser security policies for API calls across different domains.
55. Which Python framework is commonly used to develop web APIs?
A) Django
B) Flask
C) Pyramid
D) All of the above
Answer: D) All of the above
Explanation: Django, Flask, and Pyramid are popular frameworks for building APIs.
56. Which of the following is NOT a typical use case for Cisco Meraki APIs?
A) Automating network configurations
B) Monitoring device status
C) Sending emails
D) Managing security policies
Answer: C) Sending emails
Explanation: Meraki APIs are focused on network management, not email services.
57. What is the benefit of using virtual machines (VMs) in DevNet labs?
A) They provide a physical device environment
B) They isolate development environments for safe testing
C) They are faster than physical devices
D) They do not require software installation
Answer: B) They isolate development environments for safe testing
Explanation: VMs provide a sandboxed environment for testing without affecting physical devices.
58. What tool can you use to convert Swagger/OpenAPI specifications into client SDKs?
A) Swagger Codegen
B) Postman
C) Wireshark
D) Python Requests
Answer: A) Swagger Codegen
Explanation: Swagger Codegen generates client SDKs from API specs.
59. Which data structure is NOT native to Python?
A) List
B) Set
C) Dictionary
D) ArrayList
Answer: D) ArrayList
Explanation: ArrayList is a Java data structure, not native to Python.
60. What does ‘idempotent’ mean in the context of HTTP methods?
A) Can create multiple resources
B) The same request can be repeated with no additional effect
C) Cannot be used repeatedly
D) Only used in POST methods
Answer: B) The same request can be repeated with no additional effect
Explanation: Idempotent HTTP methods allow repeated calls without changing the result beyond the initial application.
