These switches connect endpoints such as PCs, printers, VoIP phones, and wireless access points, enabling user traffic to enter the LAN. It includes the following topics: Access layer switches are primarily deployed in Layer 2 mode in the data center. What Is an Access Layer Switch? A Practical Guide for SMB Networks What Is the Access Layer Switch? In a typical enterprise network architecture, the access. When planning an enterprise access network, one of the most common dilemmas is whether to deploy Layer 2 (L2) or Layer 3 (L3) switches. It typically sits at the access layer, provides high port density, often delivers PoE, and forwards traffic. What is a Access Switch? The access switch is the network switch that connects the access layer with the subnets. FortiSwitch units distribute the ports to plugs.