What does Software-Defined Networking (SDN) separate in a network architecture?

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) fundamentally redefines the way network architecture operates by separating the control plane from the data plane. The control plane is responsible for making high-level decisions about how data should flow through the network, while the data plane is tasked with the actual transmission of that data based on the instructions provided by the control plane. This separation allows for more flexible and efficient network management, as it enables centralized control and programmability of the network without being tied to the hardware used for data forwarding and processing.

By decoupling these two components, SDN facilitates easier network configuration, management, and optimization. Network operators can implement changes and updates to the control logic without needing to modify the physical infrastructure that handles data traffic, leading to more agile and responsive network designs. This transition is critical for modern networking environments, including cloud services and virtualized environments like Cloud RAN, where dynamic resource allocation and scalability are essential.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary aim of SDN in network architecture. For instance, separating network services from applications pertains to different levels of abstraction in the stack rather than being a core principle of SDN. Similarly, distinctions between antenna functions and base stations or between data generation and storage involve specific operational elements and layers