200-901 Infrastructure and Automation Practice Question
A network team is implementing automation to provision new switchports across a campus network. They decide to use a controller-based approach with Cisco DNA Center. What is the primary advantage of using DNA Center for this task?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between intent-based automation (defining the desired state) versus traditional script-based automation (pushing explicit commands), and the trap here is confusing 'intent-based' with 'fully autonomous' or 'error-correcting' systems.
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
✓
It allows intent-based automation where the desired state is defined and the controller pushes the necessary configuration.
Cisco DNA Center uses an intent-based networking model where the administrator defines the desired state (e.g., 'provision a switchport for access VLAN 10') and the controller automatically translates that intent into the necessary device configurations (CLI or NETCONF/YANG). This abstraction reduces manual errors and enforces consistency across the campus network without requiring per-device CLI scripting.
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 automatically rolls back any configuration that deviates from the standard.
Why it's wrong here
DNA Center detects configuration drift against intended policy and can remediate it, but automatic rollback of every deviation is not its primary provisioning advantage. It is tempting because assurance features flag non-compliance, yet the question asks about the core benefit of controller-based switchport provisioning.
- ✗
It replaces all existing CLI commands with a graphical interface.
Why it's wrong here
DNA Center exposes a GUI and REST APIs, but CLI access to devices remains available and is not replaced. It is tempting because the GUI simplifies provisioning workflows, yet the primary advantage is centralised intent-based automation across many devices, not the removal of command-line interfaces.
- ✓
It allows intent-based automation where the desired state is defined and the controller pushes the necessary configuration.
Why this is correct
DNA Center's intent-based model lets engineers declare the desired end state, such as a provisioned switchport, and the controller translates that intent into device-specific CLI across heterogeneous hardware. This satisfies the stem's controller-based provisioning requirement, removing per-device manual configuration and abstracting underlying platform differences.
- ✗
It eliminates the need for any human intervention in network management.
Why it's wrong here
DNA Center automates provisioning through intent-based workflows and templates, but human operators still define policy, approve changes and handle exceptions. It is tempting because controller automation reduces manual CLI work substantially, yet claiming it removes all human intervention overstates the tool's actual operational model.
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