CCNP Automation Practice Question
A network engineer is comparing YANG models used in Cisco IOS XE automation. The engineer needs to distinguish between standard IETF YANG models and Cisco-specific YANG models. Which two statements accurately describe these YANG model types? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
The trap here is assuming Cisco-specific models are always needed or that model type dictates the protocol, when in fact standard models can be used and both protocols support any YANG model.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Cisco-specific YANG models often use a namespace that includes 'cisco' and are tailored to expose Cisco IOS XE features.
IETF YANG models are vendor-neutral standards from the IETF, enabling multi-vendor consistency. Cisco-specific models have namespaces indicating Cisco and expose IOS XE features. Both can be used over NETCONF or RESTCONF. The other statements are false: Cisco models are not always required, not limited to RESTCONF, and not IETF standards.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
IETF YANG models can only be used with NETCONF, while Cisco-specific models can only be used with RESTCONF.
Why it's wrong here
Both IETF and Cisco-specific YANG models can be used with both NETCONF and RESTCONF. The choice of protocol does not restrict the YANG model; it depends on device support and the management interface. NETCONF and RESTCONF are both transport protocols for YANG data. This statement incorrectly limits the applicability of each model type.
- ✗
Cisco-specific YANG models are always required to configure any feature on Cisco IOS XE devices.
Why it's wrong here
Cisco IOS XE supports both standard IETF models and Cisco-specific models. Many common features, such as interfaces and routing, can be configured using standard models. Cisco-specific models are needed for proprietary features not covered by standards, but they are not always required. This statement is an overgeneralization and is false.
- ✗
Cisco-specific YANG models are defined in RFCs and are open standards maintained by the IETF.
Why it's wrong here
Cisco-specific YANG models are proprietary to Cisco and are not defined in RFCs. They are maintained by Cisco and published on their developer platforms. IETF models are the ones defined in RFCs. This statement confuses the two, attributing standard status to Cisco models, which is incorrect.
- ✓
Cisco-specific YANG models often use a namespace that includes 'cisco' and are tailored to expose Cisco IOS XE features.
Why this is correct
Cisco-specific YANG models typically have a namespace URI containing 'cisco.com' and are designed to expose Cisco IOS XE-specific features and operational data. They complement standard models by providing access to proprietary functionality. For example, Cisco-IOS-XE-native is a common model for native configuration. This statement accurately describes their naming and purpose.
- ✓
IETF YANG models are vendor-neutral and defined in RFCs, allowing consistent configuration across multi-vendor environments.
Why this is correct
IETF YANG models are standardized by the Internet Engineering Task Force and published as RFCs. They provide a common data model for network devices from different vendors, enabling multi-vendor automation. Examples include ietf-interfaces and ietf-system. Using these models promotes interoperability and reduces vendor lock-in, which is a key advantage in heterogeneous networks.
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JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official Cisco exam blueprint
This 350-401 practice question is part of Courseiva's free Cisco certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the 350-401 exam.