cisco access layer,distribution layer and core layer switches

[sarahr202]

Hi every body.

How is every one doing?

I have few questions:

1)What switches are commonly  deployed as access layer switches?

2)  what switches are commonly deployed as distribution layer switches?

3) what switches are commonly deployed as core layer switches?

Thanks and have a great weekend.

[Leo Laohoo · Accepted solution]

You want the answer in theory or in practice? 

Let's start with the easy ones ...

2975, 2960/2960S is definitely an access switch.   It doesn't have the functionality or capability to be a distro or even a core switch.

2350/2360 is also an access switch for servers.

3560/3560E/3560X, 3750/3750E/3750X can be used as all three.

Sup32 of the 6500 would be used for an access switch.

Sup720 and the Sup2T can be used as either distribution or core switch.

For the legacy systems ...

2900/3500XL is access.

2940/2950/2955 is access.

2970 access switch.

3550 can be used as access and the 3508XL, 3550-12T or 12G can be used as a distribution switch.

Sup1 and Sup2 distribution or core.

My rule of thumb is simple:  If the model has a PoE then it's an access switch.  If it has more than 6 SFP ports, then it's a distribution.

Did I miss anyone?

[sarahr202]

thanks

you missed core layer

[Leo Laohoo]

Sup720 and the Sup2T can be used as either distribution or core switch.

[hobbe]

How about the 500 switches,  you know the "unmentionables" !

And well you also have the datacenterswitches nexus series.

I dont know how you feel about the 4900 series ?

those are what comes to mind right now.

[Leo Laohoo]

I dont know how you feel about the 4900 series ?

Didn't realize I just opened a can of worms.  He he he ...

[glen.grant]

You missed the whole Cat 4500  line which can be all 3 layers   :-)

[Leo Laohoo]

You missed the whole Cat 4500  line which can be all 3 layers   :-)

Darn it Glen!  Yeah.  I missed this on purpose because my only "exposure" to the 4000/4500 is the SupII and SupII+.  Not something I'm proud about.