KCNA Kubernetes Fundamentals Practice Question
Which Kubernetes object is used to store non-confidential configuration data that can be consumed by pods?
⚠ Common exam trap
CNCF often tests the distinction between ConfigMaps and Secrets, where candidates mistakenly choose Secrets for all configuration data, forgetting that Secrets are intended only for sensitive information and ConfigMaps are the correct choice for non-confidential data.
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
✓
ConfigMap
ConfigMap is the correct Kubernetes object for storing non-confidential configuration data, such as environment variables, command-line arguments, or configuration files, that can be consumed by pods. Unlike Secrets, ConfigMaps store data in plain text and are designed for configuration that does not require encryption, making them ideal for application settings that are not sensitive.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
ServiceAccount
Why it's wrong here
ServiceAccounts are for identity.
- ✗
Secret
Why it's wrong here
Secrets store sensitive data.
- ✓
ConfigMap
Why this is correct
ConfigMaps store non-sensitive configuration data.
- ✗
PersistentVolume
Why it's wrong here
PersistentVolumes store storage volumes.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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