What is the Distribution Layer?

• This layer includes hubs and switches. This layer is also called the desktop layer because it focuses on connecting client nodes such as workstations to the network. This layer ensures that packets are delivered to end user computers.

• This layer includes LAN-based routers and layer 3 switches. This layer ensures that packets are properly routed between subnets and VLANs in the network. This layer is also called the Workgroup layer. Also responsible for routing, filtering interesting traffic and WAN access. Defines Broadcasts and Mulitcast domains.

• This layer is considered the backbone of the network and includes the high end switches and high speed media such as fiber cables. This layer of the network does not route traffic at the LAN. No packet manipulation is done by devices in this layer. This layer is just concerned with speed and ensures reliable delivery of packets.