Quick Answer
The answer is a File data source, because it is the only ServiceNow data source type designed to import structured flat files like CSV, including when those files are hosted at a direct URL. While many candidates assume that a REST data source is needed for any URL-based data, the File data source natively supports importing from a URL by simply providing the CSV’s direct link, eliminating the need for an API or web service. On the ServiceNow Certified Application Developer exam, this question tests your understanding of the distinct data source types and their specific use cases—LDAP for directory services, JDBC for SQL databases, REST for web services, and File for CSV or other file formats from a URL. A common trap is confusing “URL” with “web service,” but remember: if the URL points directly to a downloadable file, the File data source is the correct choice. Memory tip: “File from URL, not REST from URL—if it ends in .csv, think File.”
This SNOW-CAD practice question tests your understanding of integrating and managing application data. This is a configuration task: choose the command set that satisfies every stated requirement. Small differences — like 'secret' vs 'password' or 'transport input ssh' vs 'all' — change whether the answer is correct. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
An organization needs to import data from a SaaS application that provides a CSV file accessible via a direct URL. Which data source type should be configured?
REST data source
Why wrong: REST is for APIs, not file downloads.
JDBC data source
Why wrong: JDBC is for relational databases.
File data source
File data source can be configured to fetch from a URL.
LDAP data source
Why wrong: LDAP is for importing from Lightweight Directory Access Protocol.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
File data source
Option D is correct: File data source can import from a URL. Option A is wrong because LDAP is for directory services. Option B is wrong because JDBC is for SQL databases. Option C is wrong because REST is for web services.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
REST data source
Why it's wrong here
REST is for APIs, not file downloads.
JDBC data source
Why it's wrong here
JDBC is for relational databases.
File data source
Why this is correct
File data source can be configured to fetch from a URL.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
LDAP data source
Why it's wrong here
LDAP is for importing from Lightweight Directory Access Protocol.
Common exam traps
Many certification questions include familiar terms but test a specific constraint. Read the exact wording before choosing an answer that is generally true but wrong for this case.
Detailed technical explanation
This question should be treated as a scenario, not a definition check. Identify the problem, the constraint and the best action. Then compare each option against those facts.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A practitioner preparing for the SNOW-CAD exam encounters this exact type of scenario on the job. The correct answer here is not the most general option — it is the best answer for the specific constraint described. Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option. Real exam questions reward reading the full scenario before eliminating options, because the constraint defines which answer fits.
What to study next
Identify which SNOW-CAD exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
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FAQ
Integrating and managing application data — This question tests Integrating and managing application data — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: File data source — Option D is correct: File data source can import from a URL. Option A is wrong because LDAP is for directory services. Option B is wrong because JDBC is for SQL databases. Option C is wrong because REST is for web services.
Identify which SNOW-CAD exam domain this question belongs to, then review the specific concept being tested. Practise related questions in that domain and focus on understanding why each wrong answer is tempting — not just why the correct answer is right.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
About these practice questions
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
This SNOW-CAD practice question is part of Courseiva's free ServiceNow certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the SNOW-CAD exam.
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