Learn the key differences between controller-based and traditional networks in terms of control-plane and data-plane functions for the Cisco CCNA 200-301 certification exam.
Table of Contents
Question
What is the difference between controller-based networks and traditional networks as they relate to control-plane and/or data-plane functions?
A. Controller-based networks centralize all important data-plane functions, and traditional networks distribute data-plane functions.
B. Traditional networks centralize all important control-plane functions, and controller-based networks distribute control-plane functions.
C. Traditional networks centralize all important data-plane functions, and controller-based networks distribute data-plane functions.
D. Controller-based networks centralize all important control-plane functions, and traditional networks distribute control-plane functions.
Answer
D. Controller-based networks centralize all important control-plane functions, and traditional networks distribute control-plane functions.
Explanation
The main difference between controller-based networks (such as those using software-defined networking) and traditional networks lies in how they handle control-plane functions:
- In controller-based networks, a centralized controller makes all the important decisions about how traffic should flow through the network. The controller has a global view of the network and programs the data-plane elements (switches, routers) with forwarding rules. This centralizes the control-plane.
- In traditional networks, each network device makes its own decisions independently based on routing protocols and locally configured policies. The control-plane logic is distributed across all the devices in the network.
As for the data-plane, both architectures still distribute the actual forwarding of packets across the switches and routers in the network. The data-plane involves the high-speed forwarding of packets and remains distributed in both models to maintain performance and scalability.
So in summary, the key difference is that controller-based networks centralize the control-plane decision making, while traditional networks keep the control-plane distributed. The data-plane forwarding remains distributed in both. Therefore, option D correctly captures this distinction between the two network architectures.
Cisco 200-301 certification exam assessment practice question and answer (Q&A) dump including multiple choice questions (MCQ) and objective type questions, with detail explanation and reference available free, helpful to pass the Cisco 200-301 exam and earn Cisco 200-301 certification.