VA-003 Explain Vault architecture Practice Question
A Vault cluster with three nodes using Integrated Storage (Raft) is healthy with one active and two standby nodes. A network partition isolates the active node. What will happen?
⚠ Common exam trap
HashiCorp often tests the misconception that losing the active node forces the cluster into read-only or standby mode, but the key is understanding that Raft's majority-based quorum allows the remaining nodes to elect a new leader and continue operations.
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
✓
The two standby nodes elect a new leader and continue writing.
In a Vault cluster with Integrated Storage (Raft), a majority of nodes (quorum) is required to maintain leadership and process write operations. When the active node is isolated, the two remaining standby nodes still constitute a majority (2 out of 3). They will hold a new leader election using the Raft consensus algorithm, elect a new active node, and continue accepting write requests. The isolated node, upon reconnection, will be treated as a follower and replicate data from the new leader.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The two standby nodes will seal themselves.
Why it's wrong here
Standby nodes do not seal; they hold an election to become the new active node.
- ✗
The two standby nodes remain in standby state.
Why it's wrong here
Without a leader, the nodes will trigger an election to select a new active node.
- ✓
The two standby nodes elect a new leader and continue writing.
Why this is correct
With a majority, the nodes can elect a new leader and the cluster remains writable.
- ✗
The cluster becomes read-only until the active node rejoins.
Why it's wrong here
A quorum of 2 nodes can elect a new leader and continue processing writes.
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Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
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