Understanding the Forwarding Plane in Juniper Networks

C

The forwarding plane is an important component of Junos OS, responsible for forwarding network traffic through a device. Let's examine each of the statements to determine which one is true.

A. The forwarding plane is contained within the Routing Engine (RE). This statement is false. While the Routing Engine (RE) is an important component of Junos OS, it is responsible for managing the control plane functions of the device, such as routing protocols, management processes, and device configuration. The forwarding plane, on the other hand, is responsible for forwarding network traffic and is typically implemented in specialized hardware separate from the RE.

B. The forwarding plane processes and evaluates exception traffic. This statement is false. While the forwarding plane is responsible for forwarding network traffic, it typically operates on a set of forwarding rules that are predefined by the network administrator. In general, the forwarding plane is not designed to evaluate or process exception traffic.

C. The forwarding plane contains the Packet Forwarding Engine (PFE). This statement is true. In Junos OS, the forwarding plane is typically implemented in specialized hardware called the Packet Forwarding Engine (PFE). The PFE is responsible for processing and forwarding network traffic based on a set of forwarding rules that are programmed into the device.

D. The forwarding plane is not present on all platforms running the Junos OS. This statement is false. The forwarding plane is an essential component of Junos OS and is present on all platforms that support the operating system. While the implementation of the forwarding plane may differ between different platforms, all Junos OS devices must have some form of forwarding plane to function properly.

In summary, the statement that is true regarding the forwarding plane is that it contains the Packet Forwarding Engine (PFE).