Introduction to Network Switch
A SWITCH IS A NETWORKING DEVICE THAT CONNECTS MULTIPLE DEVICES WITHIN A LOCAL AREA NETWORK (LAN).
UNLIKE HUBS, SWITCHES INTELLIGENTLY FORWARD DATA TO THE INTENDED RECIPIENT USING MAC ADDRESSES.
IT OPERATES AT THE DATA LINK LAYER (LAYER 2) OF THE OSI MODEL, AND SOME ADVANCED SWITCHES WORK AT
LAYER 3 FOR ROUTING.
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Functions of a Network Switch:
1. Packet Forwarding – Sends data only to the intended recipient, reducing network congestion.
2. MAC Address Learning – Stores MAC addresses of connected devices to optimize communication.
3. Collision Prevention – Allows full-duplex communication, preventing data collisions.
4. VLAN Support – Helps segment network traffic for better security and efficiency.
5. Layer 3 Switching – Enables routing between different networks.
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Types of Network Switch
Managed Switch: Provides advanced settings for network optimization. Used in
enterprise environments for better control.
Layer 3 Switch: Combines switching and routing functions. Supports inter-VLAN
communication.
PoE (Power over Ethernet) Switch: Provides both power and data through Ethernet cables.
Used for IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points.