350-701 Question #711: Real Exam Question with Answer & Explanation

The correct answer is C. southbound APIs. In Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architecture, southbound APIs enable communication between the SDN controller and the underlying network devices for data plane programming.

Submitted by daniela_cl· Mar 30, 2026

Question

Which API technology with SDN architecture is used to communicate with a controller and network devices such as routers and switches?

Options

Arest APIs
Bnorthbound APIs
Csouthbound APIs
Dunprotected APIs

Explanation

In Software-Defined Networking (SDN) architecture, southbound APIs enable communication between the SDN controller and the underlying network devices for data plane programming.

Common mistakes.

A. REST APIs are a type of API that can be used, but 'southbound APIs' specifically defines the role and direction of communication in SDN for controller-to-device interaction.
B. Northbound APIs are used for communication between the SDN controller and higher-level applications or orchestration systems, not directly with the network devices themselves.
D. 'Unprotected APIs' is not a standard category of API technology in SDN and implies a lack of security, which is generally not a design goal.

Concept tested. SDN API types and communication

Reference. https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/enterprise-networks/software-defined-networking/what-is-sdn.html

Topics

#SDN architecture#Southbound APIs#Network programmability

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