Which node provides a single anycast Layer 3 gateway to endpoints?

The edge node is responsible for providing a single anycast Layer 3 gateway to endpoints within a network. It serves as the primary point of access for clients and devices seeking to communicate both within the local network and externally. This anycast configuration simplifies routing as multiple edge nodes can share the same IP address; this setup allows for efficient traffic routing, as packets from endpoints are directed to the nearest or best-performing edge node, enhancing both performance and redundancy.

In a network architecture, edge nodes typically handle ingress and egress traffic, which makes them crucial for delivering services to end-users. This capability not only supports traditional unicast communication but also allows for a more efficient management of data flows through anycast, making it easier to scale and manage large networks.

Other types of nodes, such as border, control plane, and intermediate nodes, have specific roles in the network. Border nodes are typically at the edge of the network, interfacing between different routing domains, while control plane nodes manage control information and establish routing decisions. Intermediate nodes primarily forward packets based on their routing protocols without the additional responsibilities of directly interacting with endpoints. Therefore, the edge node is the most suitable choice for providing anycast Layer 3 gateways specifically aimed at endpoint connectivity.