ACP Network Infrastructure & Design Flashcards

What are the three layers in the traditional hierarchical network design model?

Answer: Access, Distribution, Core

The traditional hierarchical model consists of Access (endpoint connectivity), Distribution (policy and inter-VLAN routing), and Core (high-speed backbone) layers.

What is the primary advantage of a collapsed core network design?

Answer: It reduces cost and complexity by merging the distribution and core layers into one

A collapsed core design merges the distribution and core layers into a single tier, reducing hardware costs and management complexity, typically used in smaller campus networks.

What is Aruba VSX (Virtual Switching Extension)?

Answer: An active-active switch virtualization technology providing redundancy without spanning tree

Aruba VSX creates an active-active switch pair that appears as a single logical device, providing redundancy and load sharing without relying on spanning tree protocols.

What is the primary role of the distribution layer in a hierarchical campus network?

Answer: To aggregate access layer connections and enforce inter-VLAN routing and policies

The distribution layer aggregates uplinks from access switches, performs inter-VLAN routing, and enforces QoS, security, and traffic policies before forwarding to the core.

What is the purpose of an Aruba switch VSF (Virtual Switching Framework) stack?

Answer: To combine up to eight physical switches into a single logical management and forwarding entity

Aruba VSF allows up to eight CX switches to be stacked into one logical switch with a single management interface, IP address, and forwarding plane.

Which Aruba switching series is purpose-built for cloud-native, intent-based networking with a modern Linux-based OS?

Answer: Aruba CX Series (AOS-CX)

The Aruba CX switch series runs AOS-CX, a modern Linux-based, REST API-native operating system designed for automation and intent-based networking.