DevNet Associate (DEVASC) v1.0Cisco Platforms and DevelopmentMedium
A network engineer is configuring a Cisco Nexus switch using Ansible. To manage the switch's configuration, the engineer needs to interact with the device's API. Which operating system family on Cisco Nexus switches natively supports modular, API-driven configuration management?
- ACisco IOS XE
- BCisco NX-OS
- CCisco IOS
- DCisco ASA OS
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Cisco NX-OS
Cisco NX-OS, used on Nexus switches, is designed with a modular architecture and provides extensive API support (including REST, NETCONF/YANG) for programmatic configuration and management, making it highly suitable for automation tools like Ansible.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Cisco IOS XE is for enterprise routers and switches, and while programmable, NX-OS is purpose-built for data center programmability.
- C. Cisco IOS is an older OS, less focused on API-driven automation.
- D. Cisco ASA OS is for firewalls and security appliances, not general data center switching.
Cisco NX-OS Programmability
Cisco NX-OS is the operating system for Cisco Nexus switches, offering a highly programmable and modular architecture with extensive API support (REST, NETCONF/YANG) for automation and orchestration in data center environments.
- Supports various automation tools like Ansible, Puppet, Chef.
- Provides granular control over network services.
- Designed for high availability and scalability.
Memory trick: NX-OS for Nexus, Network X-tra automation.