Which layer in the Cisco hierarchical model is closest to end devices?

• A. Access
• B. Core
• C. Distribution
• D. Edge

Answer: (A)

The layer closest to end devices is the access layer. It’s where user devices like computers, phones, and printers connect to the network through access ports on switches. This layer handles the first hop for traffic from those devices, assigns VLANs, enforces basic security and access policies, and often provides features like PoE to power phones or cameras. The distribution layer above it aggregates traffic from multiple access switches and enforces policies, implements inter-VLAN routing, and provides scalability and redundancy. The core layer is the fast backbone that moves traffic between distribution blocks with minimal processing, focusing on high-speed transport rather than endpoint access. The term edge can vary in meaning, but in the classic model it’s not the layer that directly touches end devices—that role belongs to the access layer.