Planning - Lecture 3: Hierarchical Network Model

Planning for Information Networks

Lecture 3:
Hierarchical Network Model

The hierarchical network model provides a framework that network designers can use to help ensure that the network is flexible and easy to implement and troubleshoot. The hierarchical network model provides a framework that network designers can use to help ensure that the network is flexible and easy to implement and troubleshoot.

Hierarchical Network Design Layers:
? The access layer provides local and remote workgroup or user access to the network.
? The distribution layer provides policy-based connectivity.
? The core (or backbone) layer provides high-speed transport to satisfy the connectivity and
transport needs of the distribution layer devices.

Each hierarchical layer focuses on specific functions, thereby allowing the network designer to choose the right systems and features based on their function within the model.
This approach helps provide more accurate capacity planning and minimize total costs.