CCNA: Cisco Certified Network Associate — Question 862

What is the purpose of a southbound API in a controller-based networking architecture?

Answer options

• A. facilitates communication between the controller and the applications
• B. allows application developers to interact with the network
• C. integrates a controller with other automation and orchestration tools
• D. facilitates communication between the controller and the networking hardware

Correct answer: D

Explanation

The correct answer is D because the southbound API is specifically designed to allow the controller to communicate with the networking hardware. Options A and B describe interactions with applications and developers, which are not the primary function of the southbound API. Option C refers to integration with other tools, which is more aligned with northbound APIs.