300-435 Question #9: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation

Question

Fill in the blank to complete the statement. __________ is a solution for automating the configuration of a device when it is first powered on, using DHCP and TFTP.

Explanation

This question tests knowledge of Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP), a network automation feature that allows devices to self-configure upon first boot without manual intervention, leveraging DHCP and TFTP as its core protocols.

Approach. The correct answer is Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP). When a network device (router, switch) powers on for the first time with no startup configuration, ZTP kicks in automatically: the device sends a DHCP request to obtain an IP address, and the DHCP server responds with Option 67 (bootfile-name) or similar vendor-specific options pointing to a TFTP server. The device then uses TFTP to download a pre-staged configuration file or provisioning script, applies it, and becomes fully operational - all without a technician physically touching it. This is the defining characteristic: 'zero touch' by the network engineer, using DHCP (addressing/server discovery) + TFTP (file transfer) as the two-protocol backbone.

Concept tested. Zero Touch Provisioning (ZTP) - automated device bring-up using DHCP for IP assignment and TFTP server discovery, and TFTP for configuration file delivery on first boot.

Reference. CompTIA Network+ / Cisco CCNA - Network Automation & Programmability domain; RFC 5859 (TFTP boot options for DHCPv4); Cisco IOS AutoInstall feature documentation

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