A core switch is a high-performance switch that provides high-speed connectivity between different network segments, which may include access switches, distribution switches, and routers. It is a crucial component of a network infrastructure that serves as the backbone of a network. A core switch is not a type of switch, but a switch placed at the core layer (the backbone of the network) . It is responsible for routing and data switching at the core layer of the network. The data routed and switched by the core switch is carried forward to the bottom layers of the network such as the distribution and access layer. The performance of the entire network relies on the data routed and switched by the core switch.

A core switch is designed to handle large volumes of traffic at high speeds. It combines various advanced networking features such as Quality of Service (QoS), multicasting, and traffic prioritization. These features allow a core switch to intelligently manage network traffic and ensure that critical data packets are delivered promptly, without any delays or disruptions. A core switch typically sits at the center of a network and interconnects various switches and routers. It is responsible for managing the network’s routing and forwarding tables, which control how data packets are routed and forwarded across the network.

The main purpose of the core layer is to provide an optimized and reliable backbone transmission structure through high-speed forwarding of communication. Therefore, the core layer switch application has higher reliability, performance, and throughput. Core switches are known for their non-blocking architecture, allowing simultaneous data transmission across multiple ports without congestion. They offer advanced features like quality of service (QoS) mechanisms to prioritize critical data traffic and link aggregation to increase bandwidth capacity. Core switches are typically found in data centers, enterprise networks, and internet service provider (ISP) backbones.

In summary, a core switch is a high-performance switch that provides high-speed connectivity between different network segments and serves as the backbone of a network. It is responsible for routing and data switching at the core layer of the network and is designed to handle large volumes of traffic at high speeds. Core switches offer advanced features like quality of service (QoS) mechanisms to prioritize critical data traffic and link aggregation to increase bandwidth capacity. They are typically found in data centers, enterprise networks, and ISP backbones.