Introduction
In modern computer networks, a switch is one of the most important network devices, which is responsible for efficiently forwarding data packets between different devices to ensure the stability and efficiency of the network. The main function of the switch is to transmit data at Layer 2 (data link layer) or Layer 3 (network layer), realize communication between devices, and optimize network traffic to improve data transmission efficiency.
In complex network environments such as enterprises, campuses, and data centers, switches are usually deployed in different tiers, with core switches and access switches being the two most common types.
- Core switches are primarily responsible for high-speed data transmission and backbone connectivity throughout the network, and are typically located at the center of the network topology.
- Access switches are mainly used to connect terminal devices, such as computers, IP phones, wireless APs, etc., to provide network access services.
Understanding the differences between these two types of switches and their application scenarios can help network administrators design the network architecture based on their requirements to ensure efficient network operation.
Core Switch
Definition and Function
- Serve as the backbone of the network, connecting multiple branches, data centers, and aggregation layer switches.
- Responsible for high-speed forwarding of data packets to ensure efficient transmission of data traffic.
- Provide a low-latency and highly reliable communication environment to support critical business operations.
Key features
- High throughput, high performance: Supports high-speed data forwarding, typically with 40G, 100G, or even higher port rates.
- Low latency and high reliability: The optimized switching architecture supports fast convergence and ensures network stability.
- Multi-redundancy design: Supports multiple redundancy mechanisms, such as dual power supplies, dual control boards, and link aggregation, to improve fault tolerance.
- It supports a variety of protocols, such as MPLS, VXLAN, BGP, OSPF, STP, etc., to meet the needs of different network architectures.
- Security and management functions: ACL access control, DDoS protection, traffic monitoring and other features to ensure network security.
Applicable scenarios
- The core layer of the large enterprise network is responsible for the high-speed data transmission of various branches and departments within the enterprise.
- Data center: Carries large-scale data traffic, supporting virtualization and cloud computing needs.
- Campus network core layer: Connect aggregation layer devices to ensure efficient operation of the campus network.
- Cloud computing and ISP backbone: provide large-scale, high-concurrency data forwarding capabilities.
Access Switch
Definition and Function
- Responsible for connecting terminal equipment, such as computers, IP phones, wireless APs, printers, etc., to provide users with network access.
- As the lowest layer of the network, connect the aggregation/core switch upwards to realize data forwarding.
- Provide basic network management functions, such as VLAN division, security policy, traffic control, etc.
Key features
- Large number of ports: 24/48 ports are usually provided, which is suitable for large-scale terminal access.
- Support PoE power supply: Some models have PoE (Power over Ethernet) function, which can directly supply power to wireless APs, IP phones, cameras and other devices, reducing the need for wiring.
- Moderate rate: The common port rate is 1G/10G, and some high-end models support higher rates (such as 25G).
- Basic network management functions: support VLAN division, port aggregation, QoS (Quality of Service), ACL (Access Control List), etc.
- Security: Support MAC address binding, port security, and 802.1X authentication to prevent unauthorized devices from accessing.
Applicable scenarios
- Enterprise office network: provide wired access for employees’ computers, printers, IP phones and other equipment.
- Campus network: used for access to terminal devices such as classrooms and laboratories, and can provide Wi-Fi coverage with wireless APs.
- Shopping malls and hotels: support POS machines, wireless APs, surveillance cameras and otherequipment connections to provide a stable network.
- Smart building: access to various IoT devices, such as smart access control, monitoring, conference systems, etc.
The main differences between a core switch and an access switch
| Difference | Core Switch | Access Switch |
| Function | Handles high-speed data forwarding, connecting different network layers | Connects end devices, providing user access |
| Performance | High throughput, low latency | Focuses on port density, relatively lower performance |
| Redundancy | Designed with redundancy, supports multiple protocols | Generally lacks redundancy or has limited redundancy |
| Port Type | Mostly 10G and above, supports fiber optics | Primarily Gigabit Ethernet; some support PoE |
| Application Scenario | Data centers, enterprise core networks | Enterprise offices, LAN access |
How to choose the right switch
- Depending on the size of the network
Large-scale network: Select core switches to meet the requirements of high concurrency and large traffic.
Small office environment: Select an access switch to meet basic connectivity requirements.
- Based on bandwidth needs
High-performance, high-bandwidth applications (e.g., data centers): Core switches are recommended to provide faster data transfer and lower latency.
General office environment: The access switch is sufficient to meet the daily office requirements.
- According to the budget
Core switches are expensive and are suitable for enterprises with sufficient budgets or high-performance requirements.
High-performance access switches can be used as an alternative to core switches, offering a high price/performance ratio on a budget.
Conclusion
- Core switches and access switches perform their own roles in the network architecture, and a reasonable combination can improve network efficiency and stability.
- When choosing the right switch, you should consider the size of the network, performance requirements, and budget to ensure that the network meets current needs and is well scalable.
Proper planning of switch selection and deployment can help build an efficient and stable network environment and provide solid technical support for business development.
