Quick Answer
The answer is POST. In RESTful API design, the POST method is specifically intended to create a new subordinate resource under a parent collection, such as adding a new VLAN to a switch’s VLAN database, where the server assigns the unique identifier (like the VLAN ID). This follows the core REST principle from RFC 7231 that POST is for resource creation, while PUT is for replacing or updating an existing resource at a known URI. On the Cisco DevNet Associate 200-901 exam, this distinction tests your understanding of HTTP methods in network automation contexts, often appearing as a trap where candidates mistakenly choose PUT because they associate it with “update.” Remember the key difference: POST creates a new child resource without needing a predefined ID, whereas PUT requires you to specify the exact resource URI. A simple memory tip: “POST to host a new guest, PUT to update an existing one.”
This 200-901 practice question tests your understanding of cisco platforms and development. 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.
A developer is automating VLAN configuration on a Cisco switch using REST API. Which HTTP method should be used to create a new VLAN?
PUT
Why wrong: PUT replaces an existing resource.
POST
POST creates a new resource.
GET
Why wrong: GET retrieves data, does not create resources.
PATCH
Why wrong: PATCH applies partial modifications.
DELETE
Why wrong: DELETE removes a resource.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
POST
To create a new VLAN resource on a Cisco switch via REST API, the POST method is correct because it is designed to create a subordinate resource under a parent collection. In RESTful APIs, POST is used to send data to the server to create a new entity, such as a VLAN, and the server assigns a unique identifier (e.g., VLAN ID) to the new resource. This aligns with the RESTful principle for resource creation, as specified in RFC 7231.
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.
PUT
Why it's wrong here
PUT replaces an existing resource.
POST
Why this is correct
POST creates a new resource.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
GET
Why it's wrong here
GET retrieves data, does not create resources.
PATCH
Why it's wrong here
PATCH applies partial modifications.
DELETE
Why it's wrong here
DELETE removes a resource.
Common exam traps
Cisco often tests the distinction between POST and PUT, where candidates mistakenly choose PUT because they think it can 'create or update' a resource, but in REST APIs for Cisco devices, PUT requires a known resource URI and is not used for server-assigned creation of new VLANs.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, Cisco's REST API for switches (e.g., Cisco DNA Center or IOS XE RESTCONF) follows the RESTful pattern where a POST request to the VLAN collection endpoint (e.g., /api/v1/vlan) triggers the creation of a new VLAN entry in the switch's VLAN database. The server typically returns a 201 Created status code with a Location header pointing to the new resource's URI, and the VLAN ID may be auto-assigned or specified in the request body depending on the API implementation. In real-world automation, using POST ensures idempotency is not required, allowing the API to handle duplicate creation attempts gracefully by returning a 409 Conflict if the VLAN already exists.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
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.
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FAQ
Cisco Platforms and Development — This question tests Cisco Platforms and Development — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: POST — To create a new VLAN resource on a Cisco switch via REST API, the POST method is correct because it is designed to create a subordinate resource under a parent collection. In RESTful APIs, POST is used to send data to the server to create a new entity, such as a VLAN, and the server assigns a unique identifier (e.g., VLAN ID) to the new resource. This aligns with the RESTful principle for resource creation, as specified in RFC 7231.
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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