Nokia 4A0-100 Exam - Topic 2 Question 121 Discussion

The Nokia 7750 SR architecture separates its operations into control plane and data plane functions.

The Data Plane includes hardware components responsible for forwarding traffic at line rate. These components include:

MDA (Media Dependent Adapter) -- interfaces with physical media.

IOM (Input/Output Module) -- performs high-speed packet forwarding and processing.

XMA (eXpandable Media Adapter) -- extends port capacity and media support.

The Control Plane includes the CPM (Control Processor Module), which is responsible for running routing protocols, managing configuration, system operations, and other control-related functions. The CPM does not participate in data forwarding and is thus not part of the data plane.

Nokia SRA Study Guide, Chapter: 'System Architecture -- 7750 SR Components'

Nokia IP Networks and Services Fundamentals -- Section: Control and Data Plane Functions in SR Architecture