Match each network architectural layer from Cisco 3-Tier Campus and Data Center Spine-Leaf design models to its primary operational responsibility.
- Core Layer (Campus)Serves as the dedicated high-speed switching backbone optimized for ultra-fast packet transport without inspection or filtering.
- Distribution Layer (Campus)Implements policy-based routing, security filtering, inter-VLAN routing, and QoS boundaries between campus broadcast domains.
- Access Layer (Campus)Provides direct physical connectivity, Power over Ethernet (PoE), and port-level security controls for campus end-user endpoints.
- Spine Layer (Data Center)Acts as the high-bandwidth interconnect fabric connecting to all access nodes, enabling consistent latency and Equal-Cost Multi-Path (ECMP) East-West routing.
- Leaf Layer (Data Center)Functions as the physical attachment point for end-host servers and storage devices, connecting upward to all interconnect nodes with no peer-to-peer links.
Answer
Core Layer matches dedicated high-speed switching backbone without filtering; Distribution Layer matches policy-based routing, ACLs, and inter-VLAN boundaries; Access Layer matches end-user endpoint connectivity and PoE; Spine Layer matches high-bandwidth interconnect fabric enabling ECMP; Leaf Layer matches end-host server attachment point connecting to all spine nodes.
In Cisco network designs, every architectural layer performs a specialized function: the Core layer provides uninhibited high-speed packet transport; the Distribution layer handles routing policies, security boundaries, and aggregation; the Access layer provides user device attachment and port security; the Spine layer forms an ECMP-routed backbone in data centers; and the Leaf layer serves as the endpoint attachment interface connecting to all spine switches.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Cisco 3-Tier Campus and Data Center Spine-Leaf Functional Layer Responsibilities
Estimated Time:1m 30s