Packet Filtering: It processes packets and manages the transmission of packets based on its source and destination information to create network borders. And distribution switch usually supports higher performance and is mainly responsible for routing and policy-based network connectivity, including: In terms of functions, distribution switch normally owns certain functions that the access switch also has. In generally, it is not a high-powered switch when compared with those at the distribution layer. An access layer switch is usually a Layer 2 switch and facilitates the connection of end node devices to the network. In hierarchical internetworking model, the access layer is the lowest level and most fundamental layer in all these three layers. Then what are the distribution switch and access switch? Given its function, what are their difference? This article may help you to cue in on the in-depth understanding of distribution vs access switch.įigure: hierarchical internetworking model – core layer, distribution layer and access layer Distribution Switch vs Access Switch: What Are They?ĭistribution switch and access switch perform their respective duties in each hierarchy and work in accordance with relevant principles. Therefore, a backbone core layer switch is usually a fiber switch for advanced optical connection.

It serves as the gateway to a wide area network (WAN) or Internet so as to provide the final aggregation point for the network.

A core switch, also known as a tandem switch, is a high-capacity device generally located within the backbone or physical core of a network. In this hierarchical model, network switch is accordingly implemented in different network layer. It has been known to us that a hierarchical internetworking model contains core layer, distribution layer and access layer.

Tor switch vs access