What is a key characteristic of a core node?

A core node plays a pivotal role in the Illumio architecture by acting as the entry and exit points for data within the platform. This characteristic is fundamental because the core node is responsible for managing the communication between various components of the Illumio system, ensuring that data flows in and out efficiently.

In the context of Illumio's functions, the core node facilitates policy enforcement and provides visibility into the workloads being protected. By serving as these critical entry and exit points, core nodes are integral to maintaining secure and monitored traffic in the network. This means they participate actively in the management and orchestration of data flow, which is essential in a dynamic environment where security policies must adapt to changes in states and workloads.

This operational role substantiates its importance in the Illumio architecture, highlighting its function beyond merely storing data or serving as a backup, as seen in other choices.