Layer 2 vs Layer 3 Switches
PowerCert Animated Videos・5 minutes read
Switches facilitate communication between devices using MAC addresses at the data link layer, with Layer 3 switches enhancing routing capabilities by utilizing IP addresses and enabling inter-VLAN communication through switch virtual interfaces.
Insights
- Layer 2 switches function at the data link layer, utilizing MAC addresses to direct data to the correct port, facilitating communication between devices effectively.
- Layer 3 switches, or multilayer switches, operate at the network layer, enabling routing based on IP addresses, supporting inter-VLAN communication by establishing switch virtual interfaces (SVIs) for enhanced network functionality.
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Recent questions
What is the purpose of a switch in a network?
A switch is a device that facilitates communication and data exchange between devices through multiple ports, creating a network.
How do Layer 2 switches function in a network?
Layer 2 switches operate at the data link layer of the OSI model, forwarding data to the intended destination port using MAC addresses.
What distinguishes Layer 3 switches from Layer 2 switches?
Layer 3 switches, also known as multilayer switches, operate at the network layer and can route data using IP addresses in addition to MAC addresses.
How do Layer 3 switches enable inter-VLAN routing?
Layer 3 switches enable inter-VLAN routing by creating switch virtual interfaces (SVIs) to allow communication between VLANs, combining router and switch functionalities.
What is the key advantage of using Layer 3 switches in a network?
Layer 3 switches offer the advantage of routing data based on IP addresses, in addition to MAC addresses, providing enhanced network flexibility and efficiency.
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Summary
00:00
"Switches: Networking Devices for Data Exchange"
- A switch is a device that creates a network by allowing devices to communicate and exchange data through multiple ports.
- Layer 2 switches operate at the data link layer of the OSI model, using MAC addresses to forward data to the intended destination port.
- Layer 3 switches, also known as multilayer switches, operate at the network layer and can route data using IP addresses in addition to forwarding data based on MAC addresses.
- Layer 3 switches enable inter-VLAN routing by creating switch virtual interfaces (SVIs) to allow communication between VLANs, combining the functionalities of routers and switches.
