Switches
Switches Overview
Switches are networking devices that connect devices within a local area network (LAN). They intelligently forward data packets to specific devices based on their MAC addresses, improving network efficiency.
Key Functions
- MAC Address Learning: Switches learn the MAC addresses of connected devices and store them in a MAC address table.
- Packet Forwarding: Switches forward data packets only to the intended destination device, reducing network congestion.
- VLAN Support: Many switches support virtual LANs (VLANs), allowing you to segment a physical network into multiple logical networks.
- Spanning Tree Protocol (STP): STP prevents network loops, which can cause broadcast storms and network instability.
Common Switch Types
- Unmanaged Switches: Simple plug-and-play switches with no configuration options.
- Managed Switches: Offer advanced features, such as VLANs, STP, and quality of service (QoS).
- PoE Switches: Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches provide power to connected devices, such as IP phones and wireless access points.
- Layer 3 Switches: Combine the functions of a switch and a router, allowing for routing between VLANs.
Configuration Basics
Managed switches typically have a web-based interface or a command-line interface (CLI) for configuration. Common configuration tasks include:
- Configuring VLANs.
- Setting up STP.
- Enabling QoS.
- Monitoring network traffic.
- Configuring PoE (if applicable).