24-port NWay Ethernet Switch User’s Guide
Introduction
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NTRODUCTION
This section describes the Layer 3 functionality and Layer 2 and
Layer 3 features of the DES-3326. Some background information
about Ethernet/Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, and switching
technology is presented. This is intended for readers who may
not be familiar with the concepts of layered switching and routing
but is not intended to be a complete or in-depth discussion.
For a more detailed discussion of the functionality of the DES-
3326, please see Chapter 5 – Switch Management Concepts.
Layer 3 Switching
Layer 3 switching is the integration of two proven technologies:
switching and routing. In fact, Layer 3 switches are running the
same routing routines and protocols as traditional routers. The
main difference between traditional routing and Layer 3
switching is the addition of a group of Layer 2 switching domains
and the execution of routing routines for most packets via an
ASIC – in hardware instead of software.
Where a traditional router would have one, or at best a few, Fast
Ethernet ports, the DES-3326 Layer 3 switch has 24 Fast
Ethernet ports and optionally, 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports. Where
