On Tue, 3 Oct 2000, NetEng wrote:
> What are the benefits of layer3 switching (versus layer2)?
Layer 3 switching is really just marketingspeak for routing.
> Can I create VLAN's w/o using a router on a layer3 switch?
Yes, because a layer 3 switch is a router. They just don't call it a
router because the selling point is: routing = slow, switching = fast.
This is oversimplifying to some extent. Early routing algorithms and
process switching in modern routers is slower than switching. Today's
routing algorithms and "layer 3 switching" algorithms use a "route once,
switch many" process. Once the destination IP for a packet entering
an interface is known (from the routing table), a "flow" is created
and subsequent packets arriving on the same interface are switched to
the correct destination interface.
So, for all practical purposes a layer 3 switch is the same thing as
a router with a fast algorithm and lots of (usually ethernet or fast
ethernet) interfaces.
--
Jay Hennigan - Network Administration - [EMAIL PROTECTED]
NetLojix Communications, Inc. NASDAQ: NETX - http://www.netlojix.com/
WestNet: Connecting you to the planet. 805 884-6323
**NOTE: New CCNA/CCDA List has been formed. For more information go to
http://www.groupstudy.com/list/Associates.html
_________________________________
UPDATED Posting Guidelines: http://www.groupstudy.com/list/guide.html
FAQ, list archives, and subscription info: http://www.groupstudy.com
Report misconduct and Nondisclosure violations to [EMAIL PROTECTED]
