Question 1easymultiple choice
Full question →easymultiple choiceObjective-mapped
What is the main purpose of a YANG data model in network automation?
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Good practice is not just finding the correct option. The wrong answers often show the exact trap the exam wants you to fall into.
A
Best answer
To define a structured data model for network configuration and state
That is YANG's core role.
B
Distractor review
To encrypt API traffic between the controller and device
Encryption is typically provided by transports such as SSH or TLS.
C
Distractor review
To replace JSON with a Layer 2 framing standard
YANG is a modeling language, not a Layer 2 protocol.
D
Distractor review
To elect a controller as the root bridge
That is unrelated to YANG.
Common exam trap
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
A frequent exam trap is mistaking YANG for a security or transport protocol that encrypts API traffic or handles Layer 2 framing. Candidates might incorrectly select options related to encryption or root bridge election because these are familiar networking concepts. However, YANG is strictly a data modeling language that defines how configuration and state data are structured, not how data is transmitted or secured. Confusing YANG with encryption protocols like SSH or TLS, or with Layer 2 protocols such as STP, leads to incorrect answers. Understanding YANG’s precise role avoids this pitfall.
Technical deep dive
How to think about this question
YANG is a data modeling language used extensively in network automation to define the structure of configuration and operational state data on network devices. It provides a standardized, hierarchical schema that network management systems and devices use to communicate configuration parameters and status information consistently. This structured approach enables automation tools to parse, validate, and apply network configurations reliably across diverse device platforms, which is critical for modern network programmability and orchestration. The main purpose of YANG is to create a clear and unambiguous data model that describes network elements and their configuration options. Unlike transport protocols, YANG itself does not handle data transmission but works alongside protocols like NETCONF or RESTCONF that carry YANG-modeled data between controllers and devices. This separation ensures that network automation solutions can focus on data consistency and validation while relying on secure transport layers such as SSH or TLS for communication. A common exam trap is confusing YANG’s role with encryption or Layer 2 functions. YANG does not encrypt API traffic nor does it replace framing standards; those responsibilities belong to other protocols and technologies. Practically, understanding YANG’s role helps network engineers design automation workflows that leverage consistent data models, improving configuration accuracy and reducing manual errors in Cisco environments.
KKey Concepts to Remember
- YANG defines a structured, hierarchical data model that standardizes network device configuration and operational state representation.
- Network automation tools use YANG models to validate and apply configurations consistently across diverse Cisco devices.
- YANG works alongside transport protocols like NETCONF and RESTCONF, which carry the modeled data securely between controllers and devices.
- YANG itself does not provide encryption or data transport; secure communication is handled by protocols such as SSH or TLS.
- YANG is not a Layer 2 protocol and does not replace framing standards or participate in network topology decisions like root bridge election.
- Using YANG models reduces manual configuration errors by enabling programmatic, consistent network management.
- Understanding YANG’s role helps distinguish data modeling from transport and security functions in network automation.
- YANG’s structured approach supports Cisco’s programmability goals by enabling interoperable and vendor-neutral network configuration.
TExam Day Tips
- Watch for words such as best, first, most likely and least administrative effort.
- Review why wrong options are wrong, not only why the correct option is correct.
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More questions from this exam
Keep practising from the same exam bank, or move into a focused topic page if this question exposed a weak area.
Question 1
A router learns the same prefix from both OSPF and EIGRP. Which route is installed by default?
Question 2
A router shows this output: R1#show ip ospf neighbor Neighbor ID Pri State Dead Time Address Interface 10.1.1.2 1 FULL/DR 00:00:34 192.168.12.2 GigabitEthernet0/0 10.1.1.3 1 2WAY/DROTHER 00:00:39 192.168.12.3 GigabitEthernet0/0 Which statement is correct?
Question 3
What is the OSPF metric called?
Question 4
A non-root switch has two uplinks toward the root bridge. One path has a lower total STP cost than the other. What role will the lower-cost uplink have?
Question 5
A router interface applies this ACL inbound: 10 deny tcp any any eq 80 20 permit ip any any A user reports that web browsing to a server by IP address fails, but ping works. Which statement best explains the behavior?
Question 6
A router learns route 198.51.100.0/24 from OSPF with AD 110 and also has a static route to the same prefix configured with AD 150. Which route is installed?
FAQ
Questions learners often ask
What does this 200-301 question test?
YANG defines a structured, hierarchical data model that standardizes network device configuration and operational state representation.
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: To define a structured data model for network configuration and state — YANG provides a structured way to model configuration and operational data so devices and controllers can exchange information consistently. It is not a transport protocol by itself and it does not replace IP routing.
What should I do if I get this 200-301 question wrong?
Then try more questions from the same exam bank and focus on understanding why the wrong options are tempting.
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