Access switches serve as the first point of contact between end-user devices, such as computers, printers, IP phones, and the rest of the network. They enable communication, enforce traffic management, and play a vital role in maintaining efficient, secure data flow across an. As key components in a network architecture, access switches are fundamental and widespread in hierarchical network design. It typically sits at the access layer, provides high port density, often delivers PoE, and forwards traffic. A core switch is the primary switch installed at the backbone of a layered or hierarchical network. These data switches are responsible for routing and data switching at the core layer of the network.