Layer 2 Switch – Making Bridging Easy between Hardware
A layer 2 switch is a very common hardware device used for networking purpose. It is a very efficient switching as there is no modification to the data packets. Layer 2 switch is used for workgroup connectivity and to divide the networks. Layer 2 has provided valuable aspects for changing the infrastructure of network. Hard-ware bridging has become very easy and effective with the help of layer 2 switch.
Offering High Wire Speed
A layer 2 switch also helps in providing wire speed and high speed. These layer 2 switches are very economical and functions very well. Generally layer 2 switches are installed in large enterprises so as to attain high- speed and trouble free connectivity.
We can also say that these layer 2 switches are similar to that of multiport bridges through which the frames are forwarded accurately and consistently on each port. The functioning of the layer 2 switch is based on Media Access Control. Some of the other benefits of layer 2 switch include bandwidth, VLAN, and automated packet translation and recognition.
Filtering Tables
The layer 2 switch is also responsible for filtering decisions. It helps in finding out the interface on the filter table and if the address is unidentified, it broadcasts the frame to all the interfaces excluding the one it was received on.