Quick Answer
The answer is to use the backup option in the ios_config module. This option instructs Ansible to save a copy of the device’s running configuration to a local file before applying any changes, creating a reliable restore point. If the playbook fails or pushes an undesired state during MPLS VPN deployment, the operator can simply reapply the saved backup file to roll back the device to its previous configuration. On the Cisco SPCOR / CCNP Service Provider Core 350-501 exam, this question tests your understanding of native Ansible rollback mechanisms versus external version control or manual snapshots—a common trap is assuming you need Git or a separate backup tool. The key insight is that ios_config backup provides a simple, built-in safety net for automation workflows. Memory tip: think of the backup option as your “undo button” for network changes.
This 350-501 practice question tests your understanding of automation and assurance. The scenario asks you to isolate a root cause — eliminate options that address a different problem before choosing. 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.
A service provider is deploying a new automation framework using Ansible to configure MPLS VPNs. They need to ensure that the Ansible playbook can handle configuration rollback in case of failure. Which Ansible feature should be used?
Use the 'backup' option in the ios_config module
Backs up running config before changes for rollback.
Use 'tags' to selectively apply tasks
Why wrong: Helps run specific tasks, not rollback.
Use 'check_mode' to validate changes before applying
Why wrong: Validates but does not provide backup for rollback.
Set 'ignore_errors' to true
Why wrong: Ignores errors, does not provide rollback.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Use the 'backup' option in the ios_config module
The 'backup' option in the ios_config module instructs Ansible to save a copy of the running configuration to a local file before making any changes. If the playbook fails or produces an undesired state, the operator can restore the device to the previous configuration using that backup file. This provides a straightforward rollback mechanism for MPLS VPN deployments without requiring external version control or manual snapshots.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Use the 'backup' option in the ios_config module
Why this is correct
Backs up running config before changes for rollback.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Use 'tags' to selectively apply tasks
Why it's wrong here
Helps run specific tasks, not rollback.
Use 'check_mode' to validate changes before applying
Why it's wrong here
Validates but does not provide backup for rollback.
Set 'ignore_errors' to true
Why it's wrong here
Ignores errors, does not provide rollback.
Common exam traps
Cisco often tests the distinction between validation (check_mode) and actual rollback (backup), so the trap here is assuming that a dry run or ignoring errors provides a safety net for reverting changes after they have been applied.
Detailed technical explanation
The ios_config module's backup option stores the running configuration as a timestamped file (e.g., config.2025-03-15@10:30:45) in the backup directory specified by the playbook. For MPLS VPNs, this is critical because a misconfigured VRF or BGP VPNv4 address-family can disrupt Layer 3 VPN services across multiple PEs; the backup allows rapid restoration of the exact pre-change state. In production, operators often combine this with Ansible's 'diff' feature to review changes before committing.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the 350-501 exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
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Automation and Assurance — study guide chapter
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Automation and Assurance practice questions
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FAQ
Automation and Assurance — This question tests Automation and Assurance — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Use the 'backup' option in the ios_config module — The 'backup' option in the ios_config module instructs Ansible to save a copy of the running configuration to a local file before making any changes. If the playbook fails or produces an undesired state, the operator can restore the device to the previous configuration using that backup file. This provides a straightforward rollback mechanism for MPLS VPN deployments without requiring external version control or manual snapshots.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 11, 2026
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