Cisco Certified Network Professional Practice Test

In networking, the Core Layer is designed to provide high-speed packet switching and is responsible for the transport of a large volume of traffic across the network. One of the key techniques utilized to enhance performance at this layer is the implementation of High Availability (HA) techniques.

High Availability strategies are essential to ensure that the network remains operational even in the event of hardware failures or unexpected outages. By employing HA techniques, such as redundant hardware, load balancing, and failover mechanisms, the Core Layer can maintain consistent performance and provide reliable services. This enhances overall network performance because these techniques contribute to fault tolerance and minimize downtime, allowing for continuous data flow and optimal traffic management.

While VLAN aggregation, access control lists, and stackable configurations are important in different layers and aspects of network design, they do not primarily focus on the Core Layer's main objectives of speed and reliability in traffic management. VLAN aggregation is more associated with the Distribution Layer, access control lists are typically used for security and traffic management rather than performance enhancement, and stackable configurations primarily deal with simplifying the architecture of access switches rather than optimizing the Core Layer. Thus, High Availability techniques stand out as the most relevant for enhancing performance specifically at the Core Layer.