The router is typically segmented into three planes, each with a clearly identified objective. The dataplane allows the ability to forward packets; the control plane allows the ability to route data correctly; and the management plane allows the ability to manage network elements.
- Management Plane—The management plane manages traffic that is sent to the Cisco IOS device and is made up of applications and protocols such as SSH and SNMP.
- Control Plane—The control plane of a network device processes the traffic that is paramount to maintaining the functionality of the network infrastructure. The control plane consists of applications and protocols between network devices, which includes the Border Gateway Protocol (BGP), as well as the Interior Gateway Protocols (IGPs) such as the Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol (EIGRP) and Open Shortest Path First (OSPF).
- Data Plane—The data plane forwards data through a network device. The data plane does not include traffic that is sent to the local Cisco IOS device.
