Beatrice Lang
In the context of networking, a core switch is a type of networking switch that connects to the core of a network. Core switches typically have more advanced features than standard switches, such as higher backplane speed, layer 3 routing protocols, and physical redundancy features like removable power supply units (PSUs). Cisco offers several switches that can be used as core switches, including the Cisco Catalyst 3560G, 2960X, and 3650.
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What You'll Learn
Core switches have removable PSUs, unlike edge switches
When it comes to networking, there are two main types of switches: core switches and edge switches. Core switches, also known as backbone switches, are high-capacity switches that serve as the gateway to a wide area network (WAN) or the Internet. They are typically positioned within the physical core of a network and provide the final aggregation point, allowing multiple aggregation modules to work together. Core switches have more advanced features, such as higher backplane speed, layer 3 routing protocols, and physical redundancy features. One of the key physical redundancy features of core switches is that they have removable Power Supply Units (PSUs). This means that in the event of a PSU failure, the PSU can be easily replaced without disrupting the rest of the system.
Edge switches, on the other hand, are the switches that your desktops and phones plug directly into at the "edge of the network". They are typically lighter on features and focus more on copper port count and fibre interface into the backbone or core. Unlike core switches, edge switches do not have removable PSUs. This means that if the PSU fails, the entire switch may need to be replaced or repaired, potentially causing longer downtime.
The decision to use core switches or edge switches depends on the specific needs of the business. A small company with fewer than 100 employees can typically function well with a single core switch. However, as the business and network grow, additional core switches may be required to handle the increased demand and provide redundancy. Stackable switches can also be considered to simplify management and improve scalability.
In summary, core switches offer more advanced features, including removable PSUs, deeper buffers, and higher backplane speed. Edge switches, on the other hand, are simpler and more cost-effective, focusing on copper port count and fibre interface. By understanding the differences between core and edge switches, businesses can make informed decisions about their networking infrastructure to support their growing needs.
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Core switches have higher backplane speed
Core switches are networking devices that have higher backplane speeds, among other features, when compared to 'edge' switches. The backplane bandwidth of a switch is the maximum amount of data that can be transferred between the switch interface processor or interface card and bus. This is usually measured in Gbps. The higher the backplane bandwidth, the stronger the data processing capability.
The backplane bandwidth is calculated as: Backplane bandwidth = number of ports x port rate x 2. For example, for a switch with 24 ports, the switching capacity is 448 Gbps/1.36 Tbps.
A core switch with a large backplane and a small throughput will have problems with software efficiency and chip circuit design. A switch with a large throughput, on the other hand, will have higher overall performance. Manufacturers' specifications for backplane bandwidth can be trusted, but not for throughput, as the latter is a design value that is difficult to test.
To achieve non-blocking network transmission, the forwarding rate (or throughput) must be less than or equal to the nominal Layer 2 packet forwarding rate and the nominal Layer 3 packet forwarding rate. The forwarding rate is the number of packets that pass through per unit of time without packet loss. A low forwarding rate can cause network bottlenecks and negatively impact the transmission efficiency of the entire network.
Core switches are designed to have higher backplane speeds to accommodate a larger volume of data transfers and to prevent network bottlenecks.
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Core switches have physical redundancy features
Core switches are an essential component of a network's infrastructure, providing high performance and reliability. They are designed with physical redundancy features to ensure network access remains uninterrupted even in the event of failures. This is achieved through redundant connections and control planes, allowing for continued operation even when one component fails.
Redundancy in core switches is a critical consideration to avoid single points of failure. By implementing redundant stacks, such as dual-redundant stacks with VRRP or similar protocols, the network can withstand the failure of a single stack without disrupting user access. This is particularly important in large networks with many users, such as in schools or stock exchanges, where a single point of failure could lead to significant disruptions.
One approach to achieving physical redundancy in core switches is by utilising two logically distinct units. This design ensures that if one unit fails, the other can continue operating without interruption. Additionally, layer 2 and layer 3 redundancy protocols like MLAG/vPC and HSRP or VRRP, respectively, further enhance the network's resilience. These protocols enable multiple links to appear as one to the downstream device, providing seamless failover capabilities.
To further enhance physical redundancy, core switches can incorporate Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), including its variants RSTP and MSTP. These protocols effectively manage redundancy and prevent loops, ensuring reliable network operations. Additionally, implementing Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) enables the pooling of multiple physical connections into one logical link, increasing bandwidth, redundancy, and overall network resilience.
By incorporating these physical redundancy features, core switches provide a robust and reliable network infrastructure. This ensures that organisations can maintain network access and operations even in the face of component failures or other disruptions. Such reliability is crucial for maintaining productivity, security, and data accessibility within modern organisations.
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Core switches have deeper buffers
Core switches are networking devices that have deeper buffers, allowing multiple connections to experience congestion without dropping packets. This is particularly useful in scenarios where there is long-term congestion on switch uplinks, preventing packet loss and improving data throughput.
The need for deep buffers depends on the environment and types of traffic. For example, forwarding market data over high-latency circuits requires deep buffers to avoid packet discards and ensure low latency. Similarly, when uplinks are connected to a router, deep buffer switches can save costs by utilising 10G uplinks instead of more expensive 40G/100G ports.
Core switches also have higher limits on the number of VLANs, MAC addresses, and ACL number and complexity. They are commonly chassis-based switches, allowing for simpler fault correction and upgrade paths.
It is important to note that while deeper buffers can improve performance, they also add additional lag to a packet's transit through the network. Therefore, the optimal buffer size is dependent on the specific use case and network design.
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Core switches are used for large networks
Core switches are high-end devices that are used to connect all the access switches. They are placed in the core layer of the network, which is accessed by network developers and managers. The access layer, on the other hand, is accessed by end-users and consists of layer 3 switches that route data to access devices such as modems, video display units, and IP-based devices. Access switches have high-density ports because they are used to connect the majority of devices to the network. They are placed on the edge of the network, and while they perform more functions than core switches, they are of lower performance.
The core layer provides an optimised and reliable backbone transmission structure through high-speed forwarding of communication. This means that core switches have higher reliability, performance, and throughput. Core switches are also highly scalable and can be expanded by adding more ports or modules. They are suitable for large-scale enterprise networks and internet cafes, where there are more than 50 computers.
Core switches have more advanced features than 'edge' switches, such as higher backplane speed, layer 3 routing protocols, and physical redundancy features like removable PSUs. They are also compatible with different networking topologies and can be used to extend link bandwidth and provide higher connection reliability.
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