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DES-3326 Layer 3 Fast Ethernet Switch User’s Guide
The Functions of a Layer 3 Switch
Traditional routers, once the core components of large networks, became an obstacle to the migration
toward next-generation networks. Attempts to make software-based routers forward packets more
quickly were inadequate.
A layer 3 switch does everything to a packet that a traditional router does:
• Determines forwarding path based on Layer 3 information
• Validates the integrity of the Layer 3 header via checksum
• Verifies packet expiration and updates accordingly
• Processes and responds to any optional information
• Updates forwarding statistics in the Management Information Base
A Layer 3 switch can be placed anywhere within a network core or backbone, easily and cost-effectively
replacing the traditional collapsed backbone router. The DES-3326 Layer 3 switch communicates with
a WAN router using a standard Ethernet/Fast Ethernet port. Multiple DES-3326 switches can be
linked via the optional, 2-port Gigabit Ethernet module.
Features
The DES-3326 Switch was designed for easy installation and high performance in an environment
where traffic on the network and the number of users increase continuously.
Switch features include:
Ports
• 24 high-performance NWay ports all operating at 10/100 Mbps for connecting to end stations,
servers and hubs (23 MDI-X 10/100 Ethernet UTP ports and one MDI-II/MDI-X port. The MDI-
II/MDI-X port can be switched between the two modes from the front panel.)
• All ports can auto-negotiate (NWay) between 10Mbps/ 100Mbps, half-duplex or full duplex and
flow control for half-duplex ports.
• One front panel slide-in module interface for a 2-port 1000BASE-SX, 1000BASE-LX, 1000BASE-
T, or GBIC Gigabit Ethernet module.
• RS-232 DCE Diagnostic port (console port) for setting up and managing the Switch via a
connection to a console terminal or PC using a terminal emulation program.
Performance Features
Layer 2 Features
• 8.8 Gbps switching fabric capacity
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