What must be done before performing a REST API call for NetApp Cloud Volumes ONTAP?

Before making a REST API call for NetApp Cloud Volumes ONTAP, it is necessary to create an initial instance of Cloud Volumes ONTAP. This step is fundamental because the API operates on a specific instance of Cloud Volumes ONTAP, and without having an instance created, any API calls made would not have a target or context.

Once the instance is operational, authentication tokens can be obtained and used to interact with the API. This means that creating the instance establishes the foundation for all subsequent API interactions, as you need a running service that can respond to your calls.

The other options involve actions that are relevant after the instance has been created, such as logging in with a specific token or using automation tools like Ansible. However, without the initial instance, those actions would not be meaningful within the context of interacting with the REST API.