200-901 Infrastructure and Automation Practice Question
An engineer needs to automate the backup of configuration files from multiple Cisco IOS devices to a central server. Which protocol is most appropriate for pushing configurations from the devices to the server?
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between secure and insecure file transfer protocols in automation contexts, and the trap here is that candidates may choose TFTP due to its simplicity and common use in lab environments, overlooking the security requirements for production backups.
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
✓
SCP
SCP (Secure Copy Protocol) is the most appropriate choice because it provides encrypted, authenticated file transfers over SSH, ensuring the confidentiality and integrity of Cisco IOS configuration backups. It is natively supported on Cisco IOS devices and allows secure push operations to a central server without requiring additional software.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
TFTP
Why it's wrong here
TFTP provides no authentication or encryption, so configuration files containing credentials traverse the network in clear text. TFTP suits trivial, trusted-LAN transfers such as firmware or lab image loading, not secure automated backup of sensitive device configurations.
- ✗
FTP
Why it's wrong here
FTP transfers files but sends credentials and data unencrypted, and IOS lacks native scheduled FTP push automation without scripting. FTP suits manual bulk file movement on trusted internal networks, whereas automated configuration backup requires the device-initiated, authenticated transfer that SCP or TFTP-based tooling provides.
- ✗
HTTP
Why it's wrong here
HTTP lacks a native file-transfer mechanism for scheduled configuration uploads; IOS devices cannot push files to a server via plain HTTP without custom scripting. HTTP suits REST-based API calls or model-driven telemetry, not routine configuration backup transport.
- ✓
SCP
Why this is correct
SCP runs over SSH, providing encrypted, authenticated file transfer from IOS devices to a central server. Cisco IOS supports SCP natively via the archive or copy commands, satisfying the requirement to push configuration files securely.
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JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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