CCNA 200-301 v1.1 reference — Network Fundamentals
Network architectures
Two-tier, three-tier and spine-leaf campus designs, WAN and SOHO topologies, and how on-premises and cloud deployments differ.
Objective 1.2v1.1 exam target
Loading
Topology architectures compared
| Architecture | Structure | Strengths | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Three-tier | Access → distribution → core | Clear fault domains, policy at distribution | Large campus LANs |
| Two-tier / collapsed core | Access → combined distribution+core | Fewer devices, lower cost | Small/medium campuses |
| Spine-leaf | Every leaf reaches every spine in one hop | Predictable latency, horizontal scale, no STP blocking | Data centers, fabrics |
| WAN | Links sites over provider transport | MPLS, broadband, VPN over internet | Connecting branches and DC |
| SOHO | Single device often combines routing, switching, Wi-Fi | Simple, low cost | Home/small office |
Spine-leaf is the dominant data-center fabric: every leaf connects to every spine, so any two leaves are exactly one spine hop apart. Latency is predictable and bandwidth scales horizontally — add a spine for more paths, add a leaf for more ports. It is a Layer 3-oriented fabric where loops are avoided by routed links rather than STP blocking.
Related resources
Sources
- Cisco CCNA 200-301 v1.1 Exam Topics (official PDF) — reviewed 2026-11-02
Targets CCNA 200-301 v1.1 objectives. Supplemental blocks are labeled beyond exam scope.