Hi @slane6 

Thanks for posting in our business forum.

We usually separate the device from the managed, smart, and unmanaged switches.

So, it should follow an order like this:

ER605 > SG2008P > SG105E > SG108

Though you can connect it differently if you follow a strict OSI model, it should be like that.

Core Layer

Function: Network backbone, providing high-speed, reliable data transmission.

Devices: High-performance switches/routers.

Characteristics: High-speed (e.g., 10Gbps+), high availability, low latency.

Aggregation Layer

Function: Aggregates access layer traffic, implements policies (e.g., routing, access control).

Devices: Mid-to-high-end switches.

Characteristics: Policy control, traffic management, redundancy.

Access Layer

Function: Connects end devices (e.g., computers, IP phones).

Devices: Access switches.

Characteristics: Provides network access, VLAN segmentation, basic security.