352-001 · Question #580
Which two functions are performed at the distribution layer of the three-layer hierarchical network design model? (Choose two).
The correct answer is A. Fault isolation E. Load balancing. In Cisco's three-layer hierarchical model, the distribution layer sits between access and core and is responsible for policy enforcement, fault isolation, and load balancing across redundant uplinks.
Question
Which two functions are performed at the distribution layer of the three-layer hierarchical network design model? (Choose two).
Options
- AFault isolation
- BQoS classification and marking boundary
- CFast transport
- DReliability
- ELoad balancing
How the community answered
(50 responses)- A90% (45)
- B2% (1)
- C2% (1)
- D6% (3)
Why each option
In Cisco's three-layer hierarchical model, the distribution layer sits between access and core and is responsible for policy enforcement, fault isolation, and load balancing across redundant uplinks.
The distribution layer provides fault isolation by containing failures within the access layer through route summarization and policy filtering, preventing them from propagating up to the core.
QoS classification and marking is performed at the access layer, which is the trust boundary where traffic is first ingested and marked - not at the distribution layer.
Fast transport is the primary function of the core layer, which is optimized for high-speed, low-latency forwarding with minimal policy processing overhead.
High availability and redundancy are defining characteristics of the core layer design, not a specific functional role attributed to the distribution layer.
The distribution layer performs load balancing across multiple uplinks toward the core, distributing traffic over redundant paths to optimize bandwidth and provide resilience.
Concept tested: Distribution layer roles in three-tier hierarchical design
Source: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/td/docs/solutions/Enterprise/Campus/DesignZone/Campdes.html
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