A southbound API facilitates communication between which components?
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Correct answer: The SDN controller and switches and routers.
Why this is the answer
A southbound API (Application Programming Interface) in Software-Defined Networking (SDN) is used for communication between the SDN controller and the underlying network devices, such as switches and routers. This interface allows the controller to program and manage the data plane of these devices, dictating how traffic flows. The SDN controller and end-user PCs do not directly communicate via a southbound API; end-user PCs interact with the network through the data plane. The SDN controller and services and applications communicate via a northbound API, which allows applications to request network services from the controller. Network applications and switches and routers do not directly communicate; applications interact with the controller, which then programs the network devices.
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