Final answer:
Layer 2 switches, Layer 3 switches, and end devices operate mainly in the data plane, where the actual processing and forwarding of packets take place.
Step-by-step explanation:
L2 switches (Layer 2), L3 switches (Layer 3), and end devices typically operate primarily in the data plane. The data plane, also known as the forwarding plane, is responsible for the actual processing and forwarding of data packets based on the established routing table.
The control plane is where routing protocols run and path determination occurs, while the management plane involves functions like monitoring, configuration, and administration, which are not typically the roles of switches and end devices in action.
In contrast, the control plane is responsible for tasks such as routing protocols and network management, while the management plane handles device configuration and monitoring.
The application plane refers to the software applications that run on end devices, such as web browsers or email clients.
Therefore answer is a. Data plane.