KCNA Kubernetes Fundamentals Practice Question
Which two of the following are true about ConfigMaps? (Select TWO.)
⚠ Common exam trap
CNCF often tests the distinction between ConfigMaps and Secrets, specifically that ConfigMaps are for non-sensitive, plaintext data and are not encrypted by default, while Secrets are intended for sensitive data and have optional encryption at rest.
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
✓
ConfigMaps are namespace-scoped
ConfigMaps are namespace-scoped objects (B) and can be mounted as volumes or exposed as environment variables (D).
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
ConfigMaps are automatically encrypted at rest
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. ConfigMaps are not automatically encrypted at rest; encryption must be configured separately, typically via etcd encryption.
- ✓
ConfigMaps are namespace-scoped
Why this is correct
Correct. ConfigMaps are namespace-scoped, meaning they exist within a specific namespace and are only accessible to pods in that namespace.
- ✗
ConfigMaps can hold binary data
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. ConfigMaps are designed for plaintext data; binary data should use Secrets or other mechanisms.
- ✓
ConfigMaps can be mounted as volumes or exposed as environment variables
Why this is correct
Correct. ConfigMaps can be consumed by pods either as mounted volumes or as environment variables.
- ✗
ConfigMaps are used to store sensitive configuration data
Why it's wrong here
Incorrect. While ConfigMaps are indeed used for non-sensitive configuration data, this statement, though true, is not one of the two key operational characteristics being asked about in this question.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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