What is a benefit of the PFE storing its own copy of the forwarding table?

The choice stating that the Packet Forwarding Engine (PFE) knows how to forward traffic during Routing Engine (RE) instability is accurate because it highlights a critical operational advantage of having the PFE maintain its own copy of the forwarding table. In networking equipment, the PFE is responsible for directing packets based on the information stored in this forwarding table, which is crucial for efficient packet handling.

When the RE experiences instability—whether due to a software update, a crash, or any other issue—the network can suffer from packet loss or delays. However, because the PFE retains a separate and independent copy of the forwarding table, it can continue to forward packets based on the last known routing information. This capability helps maintain network stability and ensures continuity of service even when the RE is unable to perform its functions, thereby minimizing the impact of RE failures on the overall performance of the network.

Other options may suggest advantages that are related to performance or energy efficiency, but they do not directly address the critical situation of forwarding continuity during RE disruptions, which is a core function of the PFE in maintaining network reliability.