First Step in Needs Analysis
Break the network into three conceptual parts (based on their geographic and logical scope):
- Access layer
- Lies closest to the user; often a LAN
- Distribution layer
- Connects the access layer to the rest of the network; often a backbone network
- Core layer
- Connects the different parts of the distribution layer together; often a WAN
Not all layers present in all networks
- Small networks may not have a distribution layer