The Cisco Three-Layer Hierarchical Model

Core layer: is known as backbone of network as it is on the top of the network and it is responsible to transfer heavy amount of traffic in reliable and quick manner. Distribution layer: provides policy-based connectivity. Access layer: provides local and remote workgroup or user access to the network.

Cisco Three Network Layer

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Fig. 2
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Cisco Three Network Layer

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Access Layer
The purpose of the access layer is to grant user access to network resources. The access layer can include routers, switches, bridges, hubs, and wireless access points. Access layer devices control traffic by localizing service requests to the access media, it is the concentration point at which clients access the network. Functions include MAC layer filtering and micro segmentation.
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Access Layer
Catalyst 1900 and 2820 switches were effective for small campus networks The 2950 series provides access for users and servers that require higher bandwidth to use FastEthernet and Gigabit Ethernet ports The 4000 and 5000 series include Gigabit Ethernet ports to effective in large campus networks

Access Layer
The access layer includes switched LAN devices with ports that provide connectivity for workstations and servers in the campus environment.
The access layer for remote sites or teleworkers provides access to the corporate network across some wide-area technology, such as Frame Relay, MPLS, ISDN, leased lines, DSL over traditional telephone copper lines, or coaxial cable in the WAN environment.

Distribution Layer
Separates the Access layer from the Core layer Distribution layer devices control access that are available at the core layer so that it use bandwidth efficiently. This layer provides redundant connections for access devices so that it provides the opportunity to load-balance between devices. Distribution layer where routing and packet manipulation are performed so that it represents a routing boundary between the access and core layers. It implements network policies, and provides many networking services e.g. NAT, QoS, routing, Traffic loading, firewall protection (Security). 7

Distribution Layer Overview

The often used Cisco switches at distribution layer are Catalyst 2926G, Catalyst 5000 series, Catalyst 6000 series Current distribution layer switches are Catalyst 4500, Catalyst 4900, Catalyst 6500

Distribution Layer Overview

The primary function of the distribution layer is to provide routing, filtering, and WAN access and to determine how packets can access the core, if needed . In a WAN environment, the distribution layer aggregates WAN connections at the edge of the campus and provides policy-based connectivity.
The distribution layer is often the layer that terminates access layer VLANs (broadcast domains); however, this can also be done at the access layer.

Core Layer
It is also known as the heart or backbone of the network. Responsible for switching large amounts of data quickly and efficiently The core layer is critical for interconnectivity between distribution layer devices so that it is important for highly available and redundant. This layer should not be loaded with security or traffic control measures or any unnecessary additional equipment which slow down the network traffic. Core layer network devices manage the highest-speed connections, such as 10 Gigabit Ethernet.

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Core Layer
Examples of core layer Cisco equipment include - Cisco switches such as 7000, 7200, 7500, and 12000 (for WAN use)
- Catalyst switches such as 6000, 5000, and 4000 (for LAN use) - T-1 and E-1 lines, Frame relay connections, ATM networks, SMDS

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Core Layer
The core devices must be able to implement scalable protocols and technologies, and provide alternative paths and load balancing. The core must be able to accommodate failures by rerouting traffic and responding quickly to changes in network topology. A full mesh is highly recommendation, and at least a well-connected partial mesh with multiple paths from each device is required. Core layer switches support additional hardware redundancy features like redundant power supplies that can be swapped while the switch continues to operate. Core layer-capable switches have the ability to swap cooling fans without having to turn the switch off.
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Summary
The access layer is to grant user access to network resources.
The switch operate at Layer 2 of the OSI model is use to access local workstations and servers which can provide using shared or switched media LANs; VLANs may be used to segment the switched LANs.

Connectivity of workgroup through distribution layer

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Summary
Distribution layer provides policy-based connectivity
Implementations of access lists for filtering interesting traffic and blocking uninteresting traffic. Security and network policy implementation containing address translation and firewalls. Enabling routing between all VLANs Defining broadcast and multicast domains. Operate at both Layer 2 and Layer 3 of the OSI model (multilayer switches)

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Summary
Core layer is known as backbone of network as it is on the top of the network and it is responsible to transfer heavy amount of traffic in reliable and quick manner. Protect the network from slowing down the traffic, it shouldnt use of access lists, routing between different VLANs and Packet Filtering. It should protect network from workgroup access support.
Prefer to select protocols with low convergence time and fast redundant link connectivity.
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References:
1)http://binarydelusions.com/2010/08/12/network-foundationspart-1-the-models/ 2) http://www.ccnaguru.com/hierarchical-network-design.html 3)http://ciscodocuments.blogspot.co.uk/2011/06/chapter-2applying-methodology-to_5299.html 4)http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=endscreen&NR=1&v =ziRevTIZtv8 5) http://www.tech-faq.com/understanding-the-cisco-threelayer-hierarchical-model.html 6) http://wiki.hill.com/wiki/index.php?title=Hierarchical_model 7) http://flylib.com/books/en/4.147.1.44/1/

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