Whether it is the deployment of a small network enterprise or the deployment of a large data center network, switches are an indispensable and important component. They connect the functional units of various lines based on individual user needs. We usually meet Ethernet switches, fiber switches, and the like, all sourced from a reliable network switch manufacturer to ensure quality and performance. So what are core network switches and aggregation switches? What is the difference between the two? This article will give you a detailed introduction, covering topics such as aggregation switch vs core switch, core aggregation access, and core switch function.
The biggest difference between core fiber switch, aggregation switches, and ordinary switches is that they are not a specific type of switch, but are distinguished based on their functions. Conceptually, network switches which deployed at the core layer are called core network switches. Similarly, switches deployed at the aggregation layer are called AGG switches. To understand these two types of switches, one must first understand what the core layer and aggregation layer are.
Core Layer
The core layer is the central backbone of the entire network layout, bearing and aggregating all transmission traffic. It plays a management role and is the main guarantee of network performance. Apart from core network switches, the core layer also includes routers, firewalls, and other equipment. Its main function is to provide high-speed transmission and optimization for aggregation layer equipment. It is an indispensable part of network deployment.
Aggregation Layer
The aggregation layer mainly serves to lighten the load on core layer equipment, acting as a middleman in communication. It features multiple functions such as implementing policies, security, workgroup access, routing between VLANs, source or destination address filtering, and more. The aggregation layer is often overlooked in actual applications, especially in short-distance transmissions, as the core layer's sufficient access can directly connect to the access layer. The common two-layer network architecture is this type of connection mode, which can save network layout and subsequent maintenance costs to a certain extent.
Data Center Network
In large data centers, aggregation switches connect multiple servers and storage devices, providing high-bandwidth, low-latency connections to meet the needs of large data centers.
Campus Network
In campus networks, aggregation switches connect access layers in multiple buildings, laboratories, and student dormitories, providing high-speed links and traffic management.
Branch Network
In cross-regional branch networks, aggregation switches are used to connect the access layers of each branch and aggregate data streams to the core layer, enabling cross-regional communication and data exchange.
Internet Access Point
In ISP networks, the core layer connects multiple aggregation layers and routes data traffic to the target internet access points.
Large Enterprise Network
In large enterprise networks, core network switches are used to connect multiple aggregation layers and data centers. They support telecommunications and data exchanges between different departments within the enterprise and connection to external networks.
Cloud Service Provider Network
In the network structure of cloud service providers, core network switches are key components connecting multiple data centers and cloud regions, often working alongside aggregation switches to ensure seamless data flow.
Q: Can an aggregation switch replace a core switch?
A: In small networks, a single powerful aggregation switch may act as both aggregation and core layer (a collapsed core). However, in large campus or data center environments, an aggregation switch typically cannot replace a dedicated core switch due to differences in capacity, redundancy, and performance demands.
Q: Which layer does a core switch operate in compared to an aggregation switch?
A: A core switch operates in the core layer, forming the high‑speed backbone of the network. An aggregation switch operates in the middle (aggregation/distribution) layer, bridging the access and core layers and consolidating traffic from lower layers.
Q : What are common use cases for a core network switch vs. an aggregation switch?
A: Core network switch use cases: ISP networks, large enterprise backbones, multi‑data center connectivity, and cloud provider fabrics.
Aggregation switch use cases: Campus networks, large branch offices, data center server aggregation, and multi‑floor network consolidation.
Q: Does a core switch always need to be Layer 3?
A: Most core switches are Layer 3 devices with advanced routing capabilities due to the need for high‑speed, scalable routing among aggregation blocks and external networks. However, smaller networks may use high‑performance Layer 2 devices configured with simpler routing for core‑like roles.
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