200-301 Question 42
Single answerA network engineer is designing a small business network using a two-tier architecture. The engineer plans to use access switches to connect end devices such as PCs and printers, while other switches will handle inter-VLAN routing and uplinks to the core network. Which layer in the two-tier architecture is responsible for aggregating traffic from access switches and providing high-speed uplinks?
- A
Access layer
- B
Core layer
- C
Distribution layer
- D
Data link layer
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
In a two-tier architecture, the distribution layer is responsible for aggregating traffic from access switches and providing high-speed uplinks to the rest of the network. It replaces the core layer found in a three-tier architecture, simplifying the network design for smaller environments.
- A. Incorrect.
The access layer is responsible for connecting end devices, such as PCs and printers, but it does not aggregate traffic or handle high-speed uplinks.
- B. Incorrect.
The core layer in a three-tier architecture provides high-speed backbone connectivity for interconnectivity between distribution layers, but it is not part of a two-tier architecture.
- C. Correct.
The distribution layer in a two-tier architecture aggregates traffic from the access layer and provides high-speed uplinks to other parts of the network.
- D. Incorrect.
The data link layer is an OSI model layer and not a specific layer in the two-tier architecture.