200-301 Question 479
Single answerA network engineer is configuring a Software-Defined Networking (SDN) controller to manage a data center network. The engineer needs to ensure that the controller can communicate with applications for high-level orchestration and also with network devices for configuration and monitoring. Which statement accurately describes the roles of Northbound and Southbound APIs in this scenario?
- A
Northbound APIs are used for communication between the SDN controller and the network devices, while Southbound APIs are used for communication with applications.
- B
Southbound APIs are used for communication between the SDN controller and network devices, while Northbound APIs are used for communication between the SDN controller and applications.
- C
Northbound APIs and Southbound APIs both serve the same purpose and allow applications to directly configure network devices.
- D
Southbound APIs are specifically designed to provide a user interface for administrators, while Northbound APIs are used for automated device communication.
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
SDN controllers act as intermediaries between applications and network devices. Northbound APIs are used for communication between the controller and applications, enabling orchestration and management. Southbound APIs are used for communication between the controller and network devices, allowing for configuration and monitoring. Understanding the distinct roles of these APIs is critical for managing SDN environments.
- A. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. The roles of Northbound and Southbound APIs are reversed in this description. Northbound APIs connect the SDN controller to applications, not network devices.
- B. Correct.
This is correct. Southbound APIs allow the SDN controller to communicate with network devices for configuration and monitoring, while Northbound APIs allow the controller to communicate with higher-level applications for orchestration.
- C. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. Northbound and Southbound APIs have distinct roles. They do not serve the same purpose, and applications do not directly configure network devices using Southbound APIs.
- D. Incorrect.
This is incorrect. Southbound APIs are not designed to provide a user interface for administrators. They are used for communication between the SDN controller and network devices.