1.2 Network Topology and Architectures Flashcards
Summarize characteristics of network topology architectures. (24 cards)
Define:
network topology architecture
The physical or logical layout of devices and connections in a network.
It defines how network components are interconnected, influencing performance, reliability, and scalability of the network.
What type of LAN design combines the distribution and core layers?
Two-tier
In a two-tier design, the access layer connects directly to users and servers, while the distribution layer is integrated with the core.
True or False:
In a two-tier architecture, the core layer handles routing and switching.
False
In a two-tier architecture, the access layer handles devices, while the core layer focuses on inter-network connectivity. Routing is managed by the distribution layer in a three-tier architecture.
Fill in the blank:
The ________ layer connects end devices to the network in a two-tier architecture.
access
The access layer provides the connection between user devices and the network infrastructure.
Describe the characteristics of a three-tier network architecture.
It has access, distribution, and core layers.
The access layer connects devices, the distribution layer aggregates data, and the core layer provides high-bandwidth backbone services. This design enables scalability and redundancy.
True or False:
A three-tier architecture is less scalable than a two-tier architecture.
False
Three-tier architecture is more scalable, with the distribution and core layers optimizing traffic management.
Fill in the blank:
In a three-tier architecture, the ________ layer aggregates data and enforces routing and policies.
distribution
The distribution layer serves as the intermediary between the access and core layers, managing traffic flow and providing essential network services.
What is the purpose of the core layer in a three-tier architecture?
It ensures high-speed, high-capacity routing.
It serves as the backbone of the network, providing redundancy and fast data transfer across the network.
What is the role of the distribution layer in a three-tier architecture?
It manages traffic between the access and core layers.
It provides routing, policy enforcement, and traffic aggregation to ensure efficient data flow between devices in different access layers.
Define:
spine-leaf topology
It has leaf switches (access layer) and spine switches (core layer).
Each leaf switch is connected to every spine switch for redundancy and low-latency communication, often used in data centers for scalability and performance.
Why is a spine-leaf topology ideal for data centers?
It reduces latency and enhances bandwidth.
The design provides non-blocking communication, where each leaf is directly connected to all spine switches, avoiding bottlenecks common in hierarchical topologies.
List the benefits of a spine-leaf topology.
- Low latency
- High bandwidth
- Scalability
- Fault tolerance
These features make spine-leaf ideal for performance-critical environments like data centers.
Why is a spine-leaf topology considered non-blocking?
Every leaf is connected to every spine switch.
This design ensures balanced load distribution and eliminates bottlenecks, even with high data volumes.
True or False:
A spine-leaf topology provides a hierarchical structure for data centers.
False
Spine-leaf is a flat topology, designed for scalability and performance, avoiding hierarchical bottlenecks.
Describe the characteristics of a WAN (Wide Area Network).
It connects geographically dispersed networks.
WANs use public or private transmission services to facilitate long-distance communication, such as the internet or leased lines.
What type of network connects devices within a building or campus?
LAN
(Local Area Network)
LANs cover small geographic areas, such as an office or campus, and are often connected to a WAN for broader communication.
True or False:
WANs typically use private IP addresses for all communication.
False
WANs usually rely on public IP addresses for routing across large distances, though private addresses may be used within a VPN or private WAN.
List the key advantages of using WAN for inter-office communication.
- Long-distance connectivity
- Secure communication (via VPN)
- Reliable data transfer
- Centralized traffic management
What is the role of a firewall in WAN architecture?
It filters traffic and protects against unauthorized access.
In WANs, firewalls are often deployed at the network edge to secure external connections.
Define:
Small Office/Home Office (SOHO) network
A small-scale network for home or small business use.
It typically involves basic equipment like routers, switches, and computers and is cost-effective but lacks advanced features of enterprise networks.
True or False:
SOHO networks typically use enterprise-grade routers and switches.
False
SOHO networks typically use consumer-grade routers and switches, which are simpler to manage and less expensive.
What is the difference between on-premise and cloud networks?
On-premise is hosted locally, while cloud is hosted by third-party providers.
Cloud networks offer scalability, while on-premise provides control but requires more infrastructure investment.
Describe the concept of hybrid cloud networks.
It combines on-premise and cloud-based infrastructure.
This setup allows for flexibility and cost optimization while maintaining control over sensitive data.
True or False:
Cloud networks are always more secure than on-premise networks.
False
Security depends on the configuration, management, and policies applied, regardless of whether the network is cloud-based or on-premise.
