A network operations department is preparing documentation to explain how device management and path computation differ between distributed legacy deployments and modern software-defined networking (SDN) controller environments. Which two statements correctly describe key operational differences of controller-based networking compared to traditional networking? (Select two.)
- Control plane functions are centralized on a software controller rather than running independently on each network device.Answer
- BTraditional network switches rely on agentless configuration management tools to dynamically exchange control plane routing tables.
- Southbound APIs facilitate communication between the centralized controller and managed physical or virtual network devices.Answer
- DNorthbound REST APIs are executed by network switches to forward Layer 2 ethernet frames directly to neighboring switches.
Answer
In controller-based networking, control plane functions are shifted from individual devices to a centralized software controller, and Southbound APIs are used by the controller to relay configurations and forwarding state to managed network hardware.
The correct statements correctly highlight that controller-based networking shifts control plane intelligence away from individual distributed devices onto a centralized controller, and uses Southbound APIs (such as OpenFlow, NETCONF, or RESTCONF) to communicate operational policies and device state between the controller and data plane hardware.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Centralized Control Plane and API Architecture in Controller-Based Networks