Designing for Cisco Internetwork Solutions (DESGN, legacy) — Question 44

Which one of these statements is true concerning the data center distribution (aggregation) layer design?

Answer options

• A. With Layer 3 at the aggregation layer, the physical loops in the topology must still be managed by STP.
• B. The boundary between Layer 2 and Layer 3 must reside in the multilayer switches, independent of any other devices such as firewalls or content switching devices.
• C. A mix of both Layer 2 and Layer 3 access is sometimes the most optimal.
• D. In a small data center, the aggregation layer can connect directly to the campus core, exchanging IP routes and MAC address tables.

Correct answer: C

Explanation

Option C is correct because a combination of Layer 2 and Layer 3 can provide flexibility and efficiency in network design. Option A is incorrect as it suggests STP is still required with Layer 3, which is not the case. Option B is wrong because it implies a strict separation that may not be necessary in all designs. Option D is not accurate as the aggregation layer typically does not connect directly to the campus core in larger designs.