CCNP Automation Practice Question
Which THREE benefits does network automation provide over manual configuration?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the misconception that automation eliminates all manual access methods like SSH, but in reality, automation relies on SSH or similar transports for device communication, and the trap is assuming automation reduces security risks by removing SSH entirely.
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
✓
Reduced risk of configuration errors
Network automation eliminates human error during repetitive configuration tasks. By using tools like Ansible, Python scripts, or NETCONF/YANG models, configurations are applied consistently without typos or missed commands, which are common in manual CLI entry. This directly reduces the risk of syntax errors, missing parameters, or inconsistent settings that can lead to network outages.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Increased security by eliminating the need for SSH access
Why it's wrong here
Automation often requires SSH; security depends on implementation.
- ✗
Lower initial investment compared to manual processes
Why it's wrong here
Automation often requires upfront investment in tools and training.
- ✓
Reduced risk of configuration errors
Why this is correct
Automation eliminates manual mistakes.
- ✓
Consistent configuration across all devices
Why this is correct
Automation ensures the same configuration is applied everywhere.
- ✓
Faster deployment of configuration changes
Why this is correct
Automation speeds up changes across many devices.
About these practice questions
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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.