The correct answer is that the playbook task ensures VLAN 10 exists with the name 'Automation_VLAN' on the target Nexus switches. This is because the `cisco.nxos.nxos_vlans` module with `state: merged` instructs Ansible to reconcile the device’s current VLAN configuration with the desired state defined in the playbook—if VLAN 10 is missing, it is created; if it exists but with a different name, it is updated to match. On the Cisco DCCOR 350-601 exam, this question tests your understanding of Ansible’s idempotent network automation, specifically how `merged` differs from `replaced` or `overridden`—a common trap is confusing `merged` with `replaced`, which would delete any VLANs not listed in the playbook. Remember: `merged` only adds or updates, never removes, so think of it as “merge, don’t purge.”
350-601 Automation Practice Question
This 350-601 practice question tests your understanding of automation. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
It ensures VLAN 10 exists with the name 'Automation_VLAN' on the target switches.
The Ansible playbook task uses the `cisco.nxos.nxos_vlans` module with the `state: merged` directive, which ensures that the specified VLAN configuration (VLAN 10 with name 'Automation_VLAN') is present on the target Nexus switches. If VLAN 10 does not exist, it will be created; if it exists with a different name, it will be updated. The `merged` operation does not delete or reboot; it only applies the configuration to align the device's state with the playbook's desired state.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
✗
It deletes VLAN 10 from all switches.
Why it's wrong here
The task is adding lines, not deleting; no negate statement.
✗
It saves the running configuration to startup.
Why it's wrong here
Saving requires a separate task or parameter (save: yes).
✗
It reboots the Nexus switches after applying the configuration.
It ensures VLAN 10 exists with the name 'Automation_VLAN' on the target switches.
Why this is correct
The nxos_config module pushes the provided lines, ensuring they are present.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Common exam traps
Common exam trap: answer the scenario, not the keyword
Cisco often tests the distinction between `merged`, `replaced`, `overridden`, and `deleted` states in Ansible modules, and the trap here is that candidates mistakenly associate any configuration task with a reboot or save operation, or assume `merged` implies deletion of existing configuration.
Detailed technical explanation
How to think about this question
The `cisco.nxos.nxos_vlans` module interacts with the NX-API or CLI to apply VLAN configuration via NETCONF/RESTCONF or direct CLI commands. Under the hood, `state: merged` uses an idempotent approach: it compares the current VLAN database against the desired configuration and only pushes the necessary `vlan 10` and `name Automation_VLAN` commands if a mismatch is detected. In real-world scenarios, this is critical for maintaining consistent VLAN definitions across a fabric without manual intervention, and the module supports `purge` to remove unmanaged VLANs, but `merged` alone does not delete.
KKey Concepts to Remember
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Find the constraint that changes the correct option.
Eliminate answers that are true in general but not in this case.
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.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
How this comes up in practice
A help-desk technician troubleshoots why a newly connected PC cannot reach shared printers on the same floor. The cable is good, the switch port is active, but the PC is in VLAN 20 and the printers are in VLAN 10. The uplink trunk only allows VLAN 10. A trunk being up does not mean every VLAN crosses it.
What to study next
Got this wrong? Here's your next step.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Automation — This question tests Automation — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
What is the correct answer to this question?
The correct answer is: It ensures VLAN 10 exists with the name 'Automation_VLAN' on the target switches. — The Ansible playbook task uses the `cisco.nxos.nxos_vlans` module with the `state: merged` directive, which ensures that the specified VLAN configuration (VLAN 10 with name 'Automation_VLAN') is present on the target Nexus switches. If VLAN 10 does not exist, it will be created; if it exists with a different name, it will be updated. The `merged` operation does not delete or reboot; it only applies the configuration to align the device's state with the playbook's desired state.
What should I do if I get this 350-601 question wrong?
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
What is the key concept behind this question?
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Question Discussion
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