Which two actions on a Cisco router are functions of the control layer between the routing protocol and the firmware data plane microcode? (Choose two.)
- collecting the data plane information, such as traffic statistics, from the interface module to the route processor
- allowing management access
- managing the internal data and control circuits for the packet-forwarding and control functions
- forwarding data packets
Explanation: In Cisco Layer 3 devices, the control plane and data plane operate independently to ensure efficient processing and forwarding. The control plane (running on the route processor) manages routing protocols and builds the forwarding logic, while the data plane (utilizing interface modules and switching fabric) is responsible for moving the actual data packets.
According to the sources, specific actions define the interaction between the control plane (where routing protocols reside) and the firmware data plane microcode:
- Managing internal circuits: The system must manage the internal data and control circuits required for both packet-forwarding and control functions.
- Collecting statistics: The control plane collects information from the data plane, such as traffic statistics, moving this data from the interface module to the route processor for monitoring and analysis.
- Conveying information: It extracts routing and forwarding-related control information from protocols and configuration data to convey it to the interface modules.
In contrast, forwarding data packets is a dedicated function of the data plane hardware and microcode, not a function of the control layer interaction. While management access (like SSH or Telnet) is a control plane function, it is not specifically categorized in the sources as an interaction between the routing protocols and the forwarding microcode.
Related exam: Modules 1 – 7: Checkpoint Exam: Network Switching Answers (CCNP ENCOR v9)
