Describe the three layers of the hierarchical network model.

Describe the three layers of the hierarchical network model.

Access layer:

• Grants user access to network devices.
• In a network campus, the access layer generally incorporates switched LAN devices with ports that provide connectivity to workstations and servers.
• In the WAN environment, it may give teleworkers or remote sites access to the corporate network across WAN technology.

Distribution layer:

• Aggregates the wiring closets, using switches to segment workgroups and isolate network problems in a campus environment.
• Similarly, the distribution layer aggregates WAN connections at the edge of the campus and provides policy-based connectivity.

Core layer (also called the backbone):

• A high-speed backbone that is designed to switch packets as fast as possible.
• Because the core is critical for connectivity, it must provide a high level of availability and adapt to changes very quickly. It also provides scalability and fast convergence.

Exam with this question: EWAN v4 Chapter 1 Check Your Understanding: Introduction to WANs