A core switch is the backbone of a network, managing high-speed data traffic between multiple segments. It's designed to handle significant amounts of traffic with advanced features like redundancy and scalability. There are different types of enterprise switches that perform various roles in these layer-based or hierarchical ethernet networks. Unlike access switches, which connect directly to end-user devices, the core switch focuses on aggregating and routing traffic between other switches, minimizing latency. A network switch connects multiple devices within a local area network (LAN) and directs data packets only to their intended destination. In large organizations, networks become complex, exchanging massive amounts of data. Primary Role: Acts as the central hub connecting distribution switches and routers.
[PDF Version]