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DES-3326S Layer 3 Fast Ethernet Switch User’s Guide
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INTRODUCTION
This section describes the Layer 3 functionality and Layer 2
and Layer 3 features of the DES-3326S. 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.
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-3326S Layer 3 switch has 24
Fast Ethernet ports and optionally, 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports.
Where a traditional router would have one or two high-speed
serial WAN connections, the DES-3326S relies upon a Fast