This Article Applies to:

 

All Omada switches.

 

Design:

 

In a large network, we will have different types of switches involved and they play different roles when it comes to the functions. So, we have general guidelines and separate them into different layers.

We usually follow this order:

Internet > WAN > NAT(Router) > Core Layer Switch > Aggregation Layer Switch > AP + Access Layer Switch > Wireless and Wired Clients

 

Core Layer:

 

The core layer is the backbone of the network, responsible for high-speed data forwarding, and is usually the most critical part of the network.

1. High Performance and High Throughput: Choose high-performance core switches to ensure they can handle large volumes of traffic.

2. Redundancy and High Availability: Deploy redundant core switches, use dynamic routing protocols (such as OSPF, BGP) and link aggregation (LACP) to enhance network reliability.

3. Low Latency: Core layer devices should have low latency to maintain network efficiency.

4. Simplified Architecture: Keep the core layer as simple as possible, avoiding complex packet processing like ACLs or NAT.

 

Aggregation Layer:

 

The aggregation layer connects the core and access layers, typically aggregating traffic from multiple access layer switches.

1. Moderate Performance: Choose moderate performance switches that can handle traffic from multiple access layer switches.

2. Redundancy and High Availability: Deploy redundant aggregation switches, use redundant links and protocols (such as STP, VRRP) to enhance reliability.

3. Security: Implement ACLs and other security measures at the aggregation layer to protect the network from threats.

4. Traffic Management: Use traffic management and Quality of Service (QoS) to prioritize critical business traffic.

5. VLAN and Subnet Segmentation: Perform VLAN segmentation and subnet management at the aggregation layer for better traffic isolation and management.

 

Access Layer:

 

The access layer is where user devices directly connect, primarily responsible for providing network access.

1. Port Density:Choose switches with high port density to meet the connection needs of a large number of user devices.

2. PoE Support: Select PoE (Power over Ethernet) switches if you need to support wireless access points, IP phones, and other devices.

3. Security: Implement port security (such as Dynamic ARP Inspection, DHCP Snooping), 802.1X authentication, and other measures to ensure the security of the access layer.

4. VLAN Assignment: Assign VLANs based on departments or functions for traffic isolation and management.

5. Redundancy: Provide redundant links where possible, using Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) or link aggregation (LACP) to prevent single points of failure.

 

General Design Principles:

 

1. Modular Design: Divide the network into multiple modules, each responsible for specific functions, making it easier to manage and expand.

2. Scalability: Ensure each layer has scalability to accommodate future growth.

3. High Availability: Ensure high availability through redundant design, fast switching protocols, etc.

4. Security: Implement appropriate security measures at each layer to prevent unauthorized access and attacks.

 

By following these design and deployment strategies, you can achieve a high-performance, highly available, and secure network architecture that meets the needs of your enterprise or organization.

 

Update Log:

 

May 24th, 2024:

Release of this article.

 

Recommended Threads:

 

Omada Switch Naming Format

How to Upgrade/Downgrade Omada Switches

Common Questions About the Hardware Version and Firmware Update

 

Feedback:

 

• If this was helpful, welcome to give us Kudos by clicking the upward triangle below.
• If there is anything unclear in this solution post, please feel free to comment below.
• If you encounter such an issue, please follow the troubleshooting above to check your settings. Besides, ensure your Omada Controller and Switch are running with the latest firmware.
• If the issue still exists after you try the suggestion above, please feel free to comment below or contact our support team with a detailed description of your issue and the steps you have tried.

 

Thank you in advance for your valuable feedback!

 

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