Group 3

Explain which Factors Need to

be Considered when Designing
the Distribution Layer of a
Network
DNS4C Pn. Hanis

Adrian Eranzi Dann Effendy (05DNS16F1092) Amir Syukri Bin Bujang (05DNS16F1043)
Afiq Bin Tiamin (05DNS16F1044) Mohd Idham Bin Podang (05DNS16F1055)
Alliester Anak Jampong (05DNS16F1098)
The distribution layer is the smart layer in the three-
layer model. Routing, filtering, and QoS(Quality of
Service) policies are managed at the distribution
layer. Distribution layer devices also often manage
individual branch-office WAN connections.
This layer is also called the Workgroup layer.
High data transfer rate: Speed is important at the core
layer. One way that core networks enable high data
transfer rates is through load sharing, where traffic can
travel through multiple network connections.
Low latency period: The core layer typically uses high-
speed low latency circuits which only forward packets
and do not enforcing policy.
High reliability: Multiple data paths ensure high network
fault tolerance; if one path experiences a problem,
then the device can quickly discover a new route.
Cost: The cost of a switch will depend on the number
and speed of the interfaces, supported features, and
expansion capability.
Port Density: Network switches must support the
appropriate number of devices on the network.
Power: It is now common to power access points, IP
phones, and even compact switches using Power over
Ethernet (PoE). In addition to PoE considerations, some
chassis-based switches support redundant power
supplies.
Reliability: The switch should provide continuous access
to the network.
Port Speed: The speed of the network connection is of
primary concern to end users.
Frame Buffers: The ability of the switch to store frames is
important in a network where there might be congested
ports to servers or other areas of the network.
Scalability: The number of users on a network typically
grows over time; therefore, the switch should provide the
opportunity for growth.
The network designer must also consider the issue of
uplink bottlenecks: A series of fixed configuration
switches can consume many additional ports for
bandwidth aggregation between switches, for the
purpose of achieving target performance.
THANK YOU