Quiz 8B: Explain Tiered Switching Architecture

What is the purpose of a three-tiered network hierarchy?

• To increase network complexity

• To decrease network resilience

• To organize large network designs into smaller, manageable sections

• To limit the use of structured cabling

Which layer of the three-tiered network architecture allows end-user devices to connect to the network?

• Core layer

• Distribution layer

• Access layer

• Aggregation layer

What types of devices connect to switches in the access layer?

• Servers only

• Routers only

• End-user devices such as computers and printers

• Layer 3 switches only

What is the primary function of the distribution layer in a three-tiered network architecture?

• Providing redundant traffic paths

• Connecting end-user devices to the network

• Implementing traffic policies such as routing boundaries and quality of service

• Providing wireless access points

Which layer of the three-tiered network architecture provides a highly available network backbone?

• Access layer

• Distribution layer

• Core layer

• Aggregation layer

What is the purpose of the spanning tree protocol (STP) in a network?

• To organize switches into a hierarchy

• To create multiple paths for data transmission

• To prevent switching loops and broadcast storms

• To prioritize network traffic based on VLANs

How does STP determine the shortest path to the root bridge?

• By exchanging information with other switches using multicast frames

• By assigning a priority value to each switch

• By analyzing the physical location of each switch

• By configuring static routes on each switch

Which port state in STP indicates that the port is actively forwarding traffic?

• Listening

• Learning

• Forwarding

• Blocking

What is the purpose of the "blocking" port state in STP?

• To drop all frames other than BPDUs

• To listen for BPDUs to detect loops

• To discover the topology of the network and build the MAC address table

• To prevent a loop by blocking traffic on the port

Which standard improved upon the original STP by reducing network convergence time?

• 802.1D

• 802.1W

• 802.1Q

• 802.11