Question 245 of 989
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200-901 Practice Question: Which TWO functions are performed by the data…
Which TWO functions are performed by the data plane in a network device? (Choose two.)
⚠ Common exam trap
Cisco often tests the distinction between control plane and data plane by listing functions that sound like forwarding (e.g., maintaining ARP cache) but are actually control plane operations, leading candidates to confuse maintenance with usage.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Forwarding packets based on destination MAC address
The data plane is responsible for forwarding packets based on information in the forwarding table, such as destination MAC address for Layer 2 switching. Applying ACLs is also a data plane function because ACL rules are evaluated in hardware or software during packet forwarding to permit or deny traffic.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Building the routing table using OSPF
Why it's wrong here
Control plane function.
- ✓
Forwarding packets based on destination MAC address
Why this is correct
Data plane performs forwarding.
- ✓
Applying ACLs to permit or deny traffic
Why this is correct
Data plane performs packet filtering.
- ✗
Maintaining ARP cache entries
Why it's wrong here
Control plane function.
- ✗
Establishing OSPF neighbor adjacencies
Why it's wrong here
Control plane function.
Visual reference
Quick reference
Access Control Model Comparison
| Model | Acronym | Who Controls Access? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discretionary Access Control | DAC | Resource owner | Small teams, file shares |
| Mandatory Access Control | MAC | System / security labels | Classified govt / military |
| Role-Based Access Control | RBAC | Administrator (via roles) | Enterprise environments |
| Attribute-Based Access Control | ABAC | Policy engine (user + resource attributes) | Fine-grained, dynamic policies |
| Rule-Based Access Control | RuBAC | System rules / ACLs | Firewall rules, network ACLs |
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Last reviewed: Jun 11, 2026
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