Core Aggregation Access

Creating a 3 layer network with the MX Series

3-Tier Network Introduction

A multi-tier core / aggregation / access network is often created using a series of distribution areas that enable all switches to be connected to each other within the same tier as well as being connected vertically to switches in other tiers. Diverse cable routing between distribution areas provides network resilience. A separate storage area network (SAN) can also be connected directly to the MDA via two diverse cable routes. The ANSI/TIA standard 942-2005 is widely followed to create this type of network.

The main functions of each layer are typically as follows. The core layer provides two high-speed switching between the modules in the aggregation layer and connects externally. The aggregation layer is the L3 and L2 boundary. It consolidates L2 traffic and is the platform for network services. The access layer contains all servers and storage (or SAN).

Main concepts

  • Create a high-density main distribution area (MDA)
  • Create horizontal distribution areas (HDA)
  • HDA via End-of-row to Top-of-rack
  • Connect Storage Area to MDA

Basic conecpt – ANSI/TIA 942-2005

Distribution areas, SAN, Server/Storage

The physical layout of a multi-tier core / aggregation / access network is often created using a series of distribution areas based on the ANSI/TIA 942-2005 theoretical model.

The main distribution area (MDA) is often located physically separately from other parts of the network has been commonly adopted as a starting point for these types of network designs.

Conversely, horizontal distribution areas (HDAs) located at mid-row or end-of-row within the server areas are common. HDAs are then connected to the MDA via two diverse cable routes.

Network Topologies

Spine and Leaf

Distribution area creation

MX Series 2U Panel + Adapter Modules

With capacity for 12 MX modules, the 2U housing panel enables high density fibre ports for main distribution areas and end-or-row HDA distribution. Rackspace requirements can be minimised by housing multimode and singlemode cassettes within the same panel.

100G Distribution Montage

Top-of-Rack (ToR)

The MX 1U housing panel is ideal for connecting equipment to your network within access / server racks. With 5 slots for MX modules, a range of connectivity options is available with the ability to mix multimode with singlemode and 10G with 100G within the same panel.
Each 1U panel will present up to sixty LC fibre ports or forty 40G / 100G ports.

MX Xpress - Low Density

Mixing both multimode, singlemode, duplex and Base-8

End of Row to ToR

The MX Series has OM3, OM4, OM5, standard singlemode (OS2) and bend insensitive singlemode (G657.A2) variations. The MX System enables singlemode and multimode cassettes to be housed next to each other in the same panel.

MX Series 100G Multimode and Singlemode

Within Row ToR

MX Xpress - End of Row Distribution - OM3 and SM

Mixing duplex and Base-8

MX Xpress - with 40G

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