An access switch is a network device positioned at the edge of a local area network (LAN), serving as the primary connection point for end-user devices such as workstations, servers, IP phones, printers, and wireless access points. Its main function is to aggregate traffic from these endpoints and forward it to higher-level distribution or core switches within the network infrastructure.

In cybersecurity, access switches are essential for enforcing security policies at the network entry point. They enable critical protective measures including port security to prevent unauthorized device connections, VLAN segmentation to isolate sensitive data and reduce attack surfaces, Quality of Service (QoS) for prioritizing critical applications, and Power over Ethernet (PoE) for simplified device deployment. Proper configuration of access switches is fundamental for maintaining network integrity and strengthening an organization's overall security posture.