Which NSX-T component handles the actual data traffic between virtual machines?

The NSX Data Plane is the correct choice because it is the component responsible for handling the actual data traffic between virtual machines (VMs) within the NSX-T environment. The data plane operates by forwarding packets between VMs based on the policies and rules defined in the NSX-T environment. It is where data processing and traffic flow occur, ensuring that communication between VMs is efficient and secure.

In NSX-T, the data plane is crucial for managing and optimizing the network traffic, utilizing features such as overlay networking and East-West traffic routing. By abstracting the underlying physical network, the data plane enables VMs to communicate with one another, regardless of their physical locations within the network.

The other components play different roles in the NSX-T architecture: the NSX Manager is primarily responsible for the overall management, configuration, and monitoring of the NSX environment; the NSX Gateway provides the connectivity between the NSX-T overlay networks and external networks; while the NSX Controller manages data plane operations and state, but does not handle the actual data traffic. These distinctions clarify the specific functions of each component within the NSX-T ecosystem, highlighting why the data plane is key for managing data traffic between VMs.