What is Layer 3 Switch and How Does it Works?

What is the OSI Model?

Before delving into the specifics of a Layer 3 switch, it’s essential to grasp the OSI model. The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model serves as a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or computing system, providing a systematic approach to understanding and designing network architecture. Comprising seven layers, the OSI model delineates specific tasks and responsibilities for each layer, from the physical layer responsible for hardware transmission to the application layer handling user interfaces. The layers are, from bottom to top:

  • Layer 1 (Physical)
  • Layer 2 (Data-Link)
  • Layer 3 (Network)
  • Layer 4 (Transport)
  • Layer 5 (Session)
  • Layer 6 (Presentation)
  • Layer 7 (Application)
Figure 1: OSI Model

What is a Layer 3 Switch?

A Layer 3 switch operates at the third layer of the OSI model, known as the network layer. This layer is responsible for logical addressing, routing, and forwarding of data between different subnets. Unlike a traditional Layer 2 switch that operates at the data link layer and uses MAC addresses for forwarding decisions, a Layer 3 switch can make routing decisions based on IP addresses.

In essence, a Layer 3 switch combines the features of a traditional switch and a router. It possesses the high-speed, hardware-based switching capabilities of Layer 2 switches, while also having the intelligence to route traffic based on IP addresses.

How does a Layer 3 Switch Work?

The operation of a Layer 3 switch involves both Layer 2 switching and Layer 3 routing functionalities. When a packet enters the Layer 3 switch, it examines the destination IP address and makes a routing decision. If the destination is within the same subnet, the switch performs Layer 2 switching, forwarding the packet based on the MAC address. If the destination is in a different subnet, the Layer 3 switch routes the packet to the appropriate subnet.

This dynamic capability allows Layer 3 switches to efficiently handle inter-VLAN routing, making them valuable in networks with multiple subnets. Additionally, Layer 3 switches often support routing protocols such as OSPF or EIGRP, enabling dynamic routing updates and adaptability to changes in the network topology.

What are the Benefits of a Layer 3 Switch?

The adoption of Layer 3 switches brings several advantages to a network:

  • Improved Performance: By offloading inter-VLAN routing from routers to Layer 3 switches, network performance is enhanced. The switch’s hardware-based routing is generally faster than software-based routing on traditional routers.
  • Reduced Network Traffic: Layer 3 switches can segment a network into multiple subnets, reducing broadcast traffic and enhancing overall network efficiency.
  • Scalability: As businesses grow, the need for scalability becomes crucial. Layer 3 switches facilitate the creation of additional subnets, supporting the expansion of the network infrastructure.
  • Cost Savings: Consolidating routing and switching functions into a single device can lead to cost savings in terms of hardware and maintenance.

Are there Drawbacks?

While Layer 3 switches offer numerous advantages, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks:

  • Cost: Layer 3 switches can be more expensive than their Layer 2 counterparts, which may impact budget considerations.
  • Complexity: Implementing and managing Layer 3 switches requires a certain level of expertise. The increased functionality can lead to a steeper learning curve for network administrators.
  • Limited WAN Capabilities: Layer 3 switches are primarily designed for local area network (LAN) environments and may not offer the same advanced wide area network (WAN) features as dedicated routers.

Do You Need a Layer 3 Switch?

Determining whether your network needs a Layer 3 switch depends on various factors, including the size and complexity of your infrastructure, performance requirements, and budget constraints. Small to medium-sized businesses with expanding network needs may find value in deploying Layer 3 switches to optimize their operations. Larger enterprises with intricate network architectures may require a combination of Layer 2 and Layer 3 devices for a well-rounded solution.

Why Your Network Might Need One?

As organizations grow and diversify, the demand for efficient data routing and inter-VLAN communication becomes paramount. A Layer 3 switch addresses these challenges by integrating the capabilities of traditional Layer 2 switches and routers, offering a solution that not only optimizes network performance through hardware-based routing but also streamlines inter-VLAN routing within the switch itself. This not only reduces the reliance on external routers but also enhances the speed and responsiveness of the network.

Additionally, the ability to segment the network into multiple subnets provides a scalable and flexible solution for accommodating growth, ensuring that the network infrastructure remains adaptable to evolving business requirements.

Ultimately, the deployment of a Layer 3 switch becomes essential for organizations seeking to navigate the complexities of a growing network landscape while simultaneously improving performance and reducing operational costs.

Summary

In conclusion, a Layer 3 switch serves as a versatile solution for modern network infrastructures, offering a balance between the high-speed switching capabilities of Layer 2 switches and the routing intelligence of traditional routers. Understanding its role in the OSI model, how it operates, and the benefits it brings can empower network administrators to make informed decisions about their network architecture. While there are potential drawbacks, the advantages of improved performance, reduced network traffic, scalability, and cost savings make Layer 3 switches a valuable asset in optimizing network efficiency and functionality.

What Is a Multilayer Switch and How to Use It?

With the increasing diversity of network applications and the implementation of some converted networks, the multilayer switch is thriving in data centers and networks. It is regarded as a technology to enhance the network routing performance on LANs. This article will give a clear explanation for multilayer switch and how to use it.

What Is a Multilayer Switch?

The multilayer switch (MLS) has 10gbe switch and Gigabit Ethernet switch. It is a network device which enables operation at multiple layers of the OSI model. By the way, the OSI model is a reference model for describing network communications. It has seven layers, including the physical layer (layer 1), data link layer (layer 2), network layer (layer 3) and so on. The multilayer switch performs functions up to almost application Layer (layer 7). For instance, it can do the context based access control, which is a feature of layer 7. Unlike the traditional switches, multilayer switches also can bear the functions of routers at incredibly fast speeds. In addition, the Layer 3 switch is one type of multilayer switches and is very commonly used.

Figure 1: Seven layers in OSI model

Multilayer Switch vs Layer 2 Switch

The Layer 2 switch forwards data packets based on the Layer 2 information like MAC addresses. As a traditional switch, it can inspect frames. While multilayer switches not only can do all the job that Layer 2 switches do, it has routing function as well, including static routing and dynamic routing. So multilayer switches can inspect deeper into the protocol description unit.

For more information, you can read Layer 2 vs Layer 3 Switch: Which One Do You Need?

Multilayer Switch vs Router

Generally, multilayer switches and routers have three key differences. Firstly, routers typically use software to route. While multilayer switches route packets on ASCI (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) hardware. Another difference is that multilayer switches route packets faster than routers. In addition, based on IP addresses, routers can support numerous different WAN technologies. However, multilayer switches lack some QoS (Quality of Service) features. It is commonly used in LAN environment.

For more information about it, please refer to Layer 3 Switch Vs Router: What Is Your Best Bet?

Why Use a Multilayer Switch?

As mentioned above, the multilayer switch plays an important role in network setups. The following highlights some of the advantages.

  • Easy-to-use – Multilayer switches are configured automatically and its Layer 3 flow cache is set up autonomously. And there is no need for you to learn new IP switching technologies for its “plug-and-play” design.
  • Faster connectivity – With multilayer switches, you gain the benefits of both switching and routing on the same platform. Therefore, it can meet the higher-performance need for the connectivity of intranets and multimedia applications.
Figure 2: Multilayer switches

How to Use a Multilayer Switch?

Generally, there are three main steps for you to configure a multilayer switch.

Preparation

  • Determine the number of VLANs that will be used, and the IP address range (subnet) you’re going to use for each VLAN.
  • Within each subnet, identify the addresses that will be used for the default gateway and DNS server.
  • Decide if you’re going to use DHCP or static addressing in each VLAN.

Configuration

You can start configuring the multilayer switch after making preparations.

  • Enable routing on the switch with the IP routing command. (Note: some multilayer switches may support the protocols like RIP and OSPF.)
  • Log into multilayer switch management interface.
  • Create the VLANs on the multilayer switch and assign ports to each VLAN.

Verification

After completing the second step, you still need to offer a snapshot of the routing table entries and list a summary of an interface’s IP information and status. Then, the multilayer switch configuration is finished.

Conclusion

The multilayer switch provides high functions in the networking. It is suitable for VLAN segmentation and better network performance. When buying multilayer switches, you’d better take multilayer switch price and using environment into consideration. FS.COM offers a full set of network switch solutions and products, including SFP switch, copper switch, etc. If you have any needs, welcome to visit FS.COM.

8, 24, 48 Port Switch Recommendations

There are multiple switches in the market and their count of ports can come with 8, 12, 24, 48, etc. Among them, 8, 24, 48 port switch are more commonly used. Well, what should be considered before buying 8, 24, 48 port switch? Are there any recommendations for it?

What to Consider Before Buying 8, 24, 48 Port Switch?

When buying 8, 24, 48 port switch in the market, you can consider the following factors.

  • Features – The Gigabit switch has many features. Except for the basic features like VLAN, security, warranty and so on, you’d better take switching capacity, max power consumption, continuous availability into consideration. Moreover, stack and fanless designs are considerable factors as well. Stack design is able to save the place and fanless design helps reduce the power consumption and noise. Besides, you can choose managed switch or unmanaged switch and the former offers better performance than the latter.
  • Switch ports – Except for the number of ports which should be considered, there are some different types of ports based on their port speeds. For example, RJ 45 port, SFP port, SFP+ port, QSFP+ port, QSFP28 port, etc. You can choose a suitable one according to your need.
  • Price – The switches from famous brands are usually costly and there are some three-party networking vendors offering cost-effective switches. If you have limited costs, you can consider buying switches from reliable three-party vendors.

8, 24, 48 Port Switch Recommendations

The right Gigabit switch should meet the needs of your organization and keep your network running efficiently. Here are some switches recommendations for you.

8 Port Switch

If you have only a few devices to be connected, this 8 port Gigabit switch may be a good choice. FS S1150-8T2F 8 port Gigabit PoE+ managed switch has 2 SFP ports, which transmission distance is up to 120km. It is highly flexible that controls L2-l7 data based on physical port and has powerful ACL functions to access. What’s more, it features superior performance in stability and environmental adaptability. This 8 port switch may be one of the best gigabit switches for home network, including weather-proof IP cameras with windshield wiper and heater, high-performance AP and IP telephone.

8, 24, 48 Port Switch

Figure 1: 8 port Gigabit switches

24 Port Switch

If you are looking for the best 24 port Gigabit switch, this S1400-24T4F managed PoE+ switch would be one of your proper choices. It comes with 24x 10/100/1000Base-T RJ45 Ethernet ports, 1x console port, and 4x Gigabit SFP slots. It can protect the sensitive information and optimizes the network bandwidth to deliver information more effectively. This switch is the best fit for SMBs or entry-level enterprises which need to power for the surveillance, IP Phone, IP Camera or wireless devices.

24 port switch

Figure 2: 24 port switch

48 Port Switch

When you need to uplink a Gigabit SFP switch to a higher end 10G SFP+ switch for network upgrade, this 48 port switch can meet your demand. FS S1600-48T4S PoE+ switch offers 4 SFP+ ports for high-capacity uplinks. It also provides integrated L2+ features such as 802.1Q VLAN, QoS, IGMP Snooping and Static Routing. What’s more, this solution makes it easier to deploy wireless access point (AP) and IP-based terminal network equipment with PoE technology. This switch would be one of your choices if you need the best managed switch for small business or data center.

48 port switch

Figure 3: 48 port switch

Summary

The best Gigabit switch is the one that suits your network most. When you buying 8, 24, 48 port switch, remember to consider the factors mentioned above. FS provides various switches with high-quality and high performance. If you have any needs, welcome to visit FS.COM.

Related Article: FS 24 Port Gigabit Switch Selection Guide

How to Choose an 8 Port Gigabit Switch?

There are many different network switch in the market and it comes with 8, 16, 24 or 48 ports. Among them, 8 port Gigabit switch is regarded as a cost-effective choice for small-sized families and business use. Then, how to choose an 8 port Gigabit switch? Are there any recommendations for it?

How to Choose an 8 Port Gigabit Switch?

The 8 port Gigabit switch is available in several types, including PoE or Non-PoE, managed or unmanaged, stackable or standalone. The following will tell you how to choose an 8 port switch from these types.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) or Non-PoE Switch

There is no doubt that a Gigabit PoE switch is better than the Non-PoE one. A Gigabit PoE switch is able to transmit both data and power supply over the existing Ethernet cable to network device at the same time. It can help reduce the cabling complexity and save the cost of installation and maintenance. Usually, it is used for VoIP phones, network cameras and some wireless access points. The 8 port Gigabit PoE switch is one of the most popular PoE switches for IP camera system.

Unmanaged or Managed Switch

Unmanaged switch, as a plug & play switch, has limited performance and doesn’t support any configuration interface or options. While managed switches can offer good protection of the data plane, control plane, and management plane. Besides, it is also able to incorporate Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to provide path redundancy in the Ethernet network. Additionally, managed switch enables more bandwidth to be contributed through the network. This function brings higher network performance and better transmission of delay-sensitive data. For your home use, a managed 8 port Gigabit switch may be a better choice.

Stackable or Standalone Switch

In the use of standalone switches, each switch is managed and configured as an individual entity. However, with the improvement of the network, you will need more switches to connect the devices. So the stackable switch has emerged. Compared to the use of multiple standalone switches, stackable switches provide simplicity, scalability, and flexibility to your network.

8 Port Gigabit Switch Recommendation

FS S1150-8T2F 8 port Gigabit PoE+ managed switch has 8x 10/100/1000Base-T RJ45 Ethernet ports, 1x console port, and 2x Gigabit SFP slots. The transmission distance of its SFP fiber port can be up to 120km, and with high resistance to electromagnetic interference. Besides, this switch complies with PoE+ standard for higher power capacity than PoE standard. It is highly flexible that controls L2-l7 data based on physical port and has powerful ACL functions to access. It also features superior performance in stability, environmental adaptability. This 8 port switch is best fit for weather-proof IP cameras with windshield wiper and heater, high-performance AP and IP telephone.

8 port Gigabit switch

Figure 1: 8 port Gigabit switches

Conclusion

The 8 port Gigabit switch is a cost-effective and efficient solution to satisfy the demands of bandwidth-intensive networking applications. Before buying an 8 port Gigabit switch, you’d better take the quality, power requirement, price, into consideration. If you are looking for the best 8 port Gigabit switch, FS.COM would be one of your proper choices.

Related Article: Using 8 Port PoE Switch for IP Surveillance System

How to Configure DHCP for Multiple VLANs?

Almost every device connected to the Internet needs an IP address. Previously, the countless IP addresses are assigned manually, which costs a lot of time and energy. As DHCP emerges, IT specialists are not required any longer to spend countless hours providing IPs for every device connected to the network device. But what is DHCP? How does it work and how to configure DHCP for multiple VLANs?

What Is DHCP?

DHCP – Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol is a network management protocol used on TCP/IP network. There may be at least a DHCP server and many DHCP clients. The DHCP server allows the client to request the IP addresses and other network configurations from the Internet service provider. This process eliminates the need for administrators or users to assign IP address to network devices one by one. Using this protocol, the network administrators will just set up the DHCP server with all the additional network information, and it will do its work dynamically. Both network switch and router can be configured as a DHCP server.

How Does the DHCP Process Look Like?

For the DHCP client that hasn’t accessed the Internet before, it will undergo 4 phases to connect the DHCP server.

dhcp process

Fig 1. DHCP process

1.Discover

DHCP client after being activated will first send a broadcast message to try to look for DHCP servers. In this way, the client request IP address from the DHCP server.

2.Offer

When the DHCP server gets the message from the client, it looks in its pool to find an IP address it can lease out to the client. It then adds the MAC address information of the client and the IP address it will lease out to the ARP table. When this is done, the server sends this information to the client as a DHCPOFFER message.

3.Selection

DHCP client chooses IP address. There may be several DHCP servers sending DHCP-Offer packet, the client only receives the first DHCP-Offer then sends back DHCP-Request packet in broadcast mode to all DHCP servers to request more information on the IP address lease time and verification. The packet includes the contents of the IP address requested from the selected DHCP server.

4.Acknowledge

When the DHCP server receives a DHCP-Request packet from the DHCP client, it confirms the lease and creates a new ARP mapping with the IP address it assigned to the client and the client’s MAC address. And then send this message as a unicast to the client as a DHCPACK.

How to Configure DHCP for Multiple VLANs?

The theory cannot be well digested unless it is combined with the practice. In this section, how to configure DHCP for multiple VLANs is introduced for your reference. Take the following picture as an example.

DHCP configuration

Fig 2. DHCP Configuration for Multiple VLANs

PC1 and PC2 are connected to access port of VLAN switch 1 with VLAN ID 100 and 200.

The DHCP server was supposed to serve both the VLANs.

Command to enable multiple VLANs.

DHCP configuration 1

Command to enable DHCP.

DHCP configuration 2

Add both subnets.

DHCP configuration 3

Run DHCP server.

DHCP configuration 4

Now make PC1 and PC2 as DHCP client. Both should be able to get IP address from DHCP server in their respective VLAN.

Conclusion

How to configure DHCP for multiple VLANs? This issue has been illustrated in the above content. DHCP configuration is worthy of being learned by those who are engaged in fiber optic communication field. You just need to know “How”, and let FS provide you with the best network devices. Ethernet switch like gigabit Ethernet switch and 10gbe switch, and routers are available in FS.

Core Switch Vs Distribution Switch Vs Access Switch

The hierarchical internetworking model defined by Cisco includes core layer, distribution layer and access layer. Therefore, the network switches working in these layers get corresponding names like core switch, distribution switch and access switch. This post mainly explores the confusing problem: core switch vs distribution switch vs access switch.

Definition: Core Switch Vs Distribution Switch Vs Access Switch

What Is Core Switch?

Core switch is not a certain kind of network switch. It refers to the data switch that is positioned at the backbone or physical core of a network. Therefore, it must be a high-capacity switch so as to serve as the gateway to a wide area network (WAN) or the Internet. In a word, it provides the final aggregation point for the network and allows various aggregation modules to work together.

What Is Distribution Switch?

Similarly, the distribution switch lies in distribution layer, and it links upwards to layer core switch and downwards to the access switch. It is also called aggregation switch which functions as a bridge between core layer switch and access layer switch. In addition, distribution switch ensures that the packets are appropriately routed between subnets and VLANs in enterprise network. 10gb switch usually can perform as a distribution switch.

What Is Access Switch?

Access switch generally locates at the access layer for connecting the majority of devices to the network, therefore it usually has high-density ports. It is the most commonly-used gigabit Ethernet switch which communicates directly with the public Internet, mostly used in offices, small server rooms, and media production centers. Both managed and unmanaged switches can be deployed as access layer switch.

core switch vs distribution switch vs access switch

Figure 1: core switch vs distribution switch vs access switch

Comparison: Core Switch Vs Distribution Switch Vs Access Switch

The switches may co-exist in the same network, and coordinate with each other to contribute to an unrestricted network speed with each layer switch performing its own duty. Well, what’s the difference: core switch vs distribution switch vs access switch?

Core Switch Vs Distribution Switch

Core switch has the higher reliability, functionality and throughput than distribution switch. The former one aims at routing and forwarding, and provides optimized and reliable backbone transmission structure, while the latter one functions as the unified exit for access node, and may also do routing and forwarding. The distribution switch must has large enough capacity to process all traffic from the access devices. What’s more, there’s generally only one (or two for redundancy) core switch used in a small and midsize network, but multiple distribution switches in distribution or aggregation layer.

Core Switch Vs Access Switch

The lower levels the switch dwells in, the more devices it connects to. Therefore, a big gap of ports number exists in access switch and core switch. Most access switches need to connect various end user equipment ranging from IP phone, to PCs, cameras etc,. While the core switch may be just linked with several distribution switches. Meanwhile, the higher layer the switch lies in, the faster port speed it requires. Access switch is to core switch what river is to the ocean, as the latter one has the large throughput to receive the data packets from the former one. Most modern access switches come with a 10/100/1000Mbps copper ports. An example of this is FS S3910-24TS 24 port 100/1000BASE-T copper gigabit Ethernet switch. While core switches commonly have 10Gbps and 100Gbps fiber optic ports.

Distribution Switch Vs Access Switch

As access switch is the one that allows your devices to connect the network, it undoubtedly supports port security, VLANs, Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet and etc. Distribution switch which is mainly responsible for routing and policy-based network connectivity supports additional higher performance like packet filtering, QoS, and application gateways. All in all, access switch is usually a layer 2 switch and distribution switch is a layer 3 switch. When multiple access switches among different VLANs are required to be aggregated, a distribution switch can achieve inter-VLAN communication.

Conclusion

What’s the difference: core switch vs distribution switch vs access switch. To sum up, the access switch facilitates devices to the network. The distribution switch accepts traffic from all the access layer switches and supports more high-end features. And the core switch is responsible for routing and forwarding at the highest level. FS provides different types of Ethernet switches that can work as core switches, distribution switch or access switches. For more details, please visit www.fs.com.

Get Further Understanding of Ethernet Switch Port Types

Have you ever noticed the ports on your gigabit PoE switch or other network switches? They may come in different port types and work on different switch port modes. The switch ports number varies from different network switches and port type can be configured according to specific needs. Then how many ports on a switch? What are the common switch port types?

How Many Ports Does a Network Switch Have?

Generally, I’d like to assort the ports on the switch into the ones that enable others to work and the ones to realize its own operation. The former may be classified into different types of ports based on their port speeds as shown in the following diagram, and the latter is referred to the console port. Almost every switch has a console port used to connect to the computer and manage the switch as the switch has no display component.

Here takes FS gigabit switch, 10GB Ethernet switch and 40G/100G Ethernet switches as examples to show the switch port types and numbers that a network switch may have.

S3900-24T4S
10/100/1000BASE-T  Gigabit Switch
S5800-8TF12S
10GB Ethernet Switch
S5850-48T4Q
40GB Ethernet Switch
S5850-48S2Q4C
100GB Ethernet Switch
RJ45 port
24
8
48
/
SFP port
/
8
/
48
SFP+ port
4
12
/
/
QSFP+ port
/
/
4
2
QSFP28 port
/
/
/
4

As the above figure shows, a network switch may support diversified ports. The common port number of FS network switch is 8, 24 and 48. While the maximum number of ports in a switch can grow as demands.

Common Switch Port Types on Network Switches

When the data switch resides in a VLAN, there may be three common switch port types: access port, trunk port and hybrid port. An Ethernet interface can function as a trunk port, an access port or a hybrid port.

Switch Port Types: Access Port

Access port is used for connecting devices such as desktops, laptops, printers etc., only available in access link. A switch port in access modes belongs to one specific VLAN and sends and receives regular Ethernet frames in untagged form. Usually, an access port can only be member of one VLAN, namely the access VLAN, and it discards all frames that are not classified to the access VLAN.

Switch Port Types: Trunk Port

Trunk port is adopted among switches or between switch and upper-level devices, available in trunk link. A trunk port allows for several VLANs set up on the interface. As a result, it is able to carry traffic for numerous VLANs at the same time. Frames are marked with unique identifying tags—either 802.1Q tags or Interswitch Link (ISL) tags—when they move between switches through trunk ports. Therefore, every single frame can be directed to its designated VLAN. The trunk port is a VLAN aggregation port connected to other switch ports while the access port is the port that the switch connects to the host in the VLAN. The following picture shows their differences.

switch port types: trunk port vs. access port

Switch Port Types: Hybrid Port

Hybrid ports can be used to connect network devices, as well as user devices. It supports both untagged VLAN like access port and tagged VLAN like trunk port, and it can receive data from one or more VLANs. The hybrid ports resemble trunk ports in many ways, but they have additional port configuration features. Hybrid port can send some packets without tag to PC or IP phone, and others packets with tag to other device which can process tag.

Conclusion

Knowing the switch ports number can help you select the right switch for you. And figuring out the switch port types helps you configure your switch ports accordingly. This post introduces the three basic switch port types and their differences. Hope it will be helpful for you.

Ethernet Switch with 10Gb Uplink or 1Gb Uplink

With the booming high speed broadband technology, modern Ethernet switch has stretched its branches to SMB operators and even home individuals. The exclusive property of network switch to big enterprises no longer exists. Accordingly questions about the uplink ports on Ethernet switch has put forward by lots of newbies. What is uplink on Ethernet switch? What is the function of 10Gb uplink on gigabit switch? For a specific home or SMB usage, should I employ network switch with 10Gb uplink or 1Gb uplink? With concerns of a reliable backbone, should I upgrade to gigabit access switch with 10G uplink to core 10GbE switch? For anyone with doubts about Ethernet switch with 10Gb uplink vs 1Gb uplink, this article may help.

Understanding Uplink Port on Ethernet Switch

Uplink port on Ethernet switch serves as different layer network connection, which enables a lower network to link up to a higher network. One also uses it as regular port to connect end users while link aggregation is not involved. Connecting the uplink port on one access Ethernet switch to the regular port on another higher-layer core switch enables bandwidth expansion. The uplink bandwidth will be shared by all the end devices connected to the access switch regular ports. For example, by putting a 10Gb uplink on a 1Gb Ethernet switch, it would let 10 devices on the switch communicate at 1Gb each at the same time with the rest of the network. Otherwise if the uplink was only 1Gb, those 10 devices would only be able to get about 100Mb each.

Ethernet Switch with 10Gb Uplink

10Gb uplink is commonly built in 1Gb access Ethernet switch for 10G link aggregation. Thus gigabit switch with 10Gb uplink is also called as 10GbE switch by many users. In the market such Ethernet switches with 10Gb uplinks are available for copper and optical SFP switch with 2/4 uplinks. For instance, FS provides 4 SFP+ 10Gb uplinks on 24/48-port 1000Base-T RJ45/SFP managed gigabit switches such as S3910 series 24-port stackable 1000Base-T Ethernet switches.

Some vendors like FS.COM also bring in PoE to 10Gb uplink switch for advanced features. Say S1600-48T4S 48-port PoE+ managed gigabit switch. It can boost your network to a switching capacity of 180Gbps and offers 600W total power budget for power-hungry PDs. Such Ethernet switches with 10Gb uplinks frequently used as access layer switches to link up to backbone core 10GbE switch. Then all end users on the gigabit switch can share the 10Gb bandwidth, not 1Gb anymore.

Ethernet switch with 10Gb uplink application

Figure 1: Deploying FS 48-port Ethernet switches with 4 SFP+ 10Gb uplinks ports as access switches to connect 10Gb core switch in data center layer.

Ethernet Switch with 1Gb Uplink

Only a few years ago 100Mb Ethernet switch are still common among many SMBs as access switch. However, nowadays it has gradually obsoleted by 100/1000MBase gigabit switch. To enhance network connection resiliency, modern gigabit switch comes with 24/48 RJ45 100/1000Base-T ports and 4 1Gb SFP ports for uplink. Except uplink function, The SFP uplinks on copper gigabit Ethernet switch provides optical link option when the network requires fiber cabling. FS supplies such SFP uplinks on 8/24- port PoE+ managed gigabit switch with different power budget for 1G speed.

FS PoE gigabit Ethernet switch with SFP 1Gb uplink

Figure 2: FS PoE+ Ethernet switches with SFP 1Gb uplinks and  PoE+ switch with SFP+ 10Gb uplinks are natural fit for IP cameras, VoIP phones and wireless APs.

Ethernet Switch with 10Gb Uplink or 1Gb Uplink Selection Guide

So how to choose from 10Gb and 1Gb uplink of Ethernet switch? Try to ask yourself about questions as follows. What kind of application virtualization are you implementing? How many users are there? Whether the applications and user quantity requiring for the extra bandwidth of 10Gbps? Is my cabling up-to-snuff for 10Gb uplink? Can I afford 10Gb Ethernet?

Then here are some suggestions for you. First, attach importance to applications virtualization. If your employees only need to open occasional Word documents, reply to emails or update database records, there would not be much of a requirement for 10G uplink on Ethernet switch. But if you should do lots of mass data transfer such as photos and videos exchange even in a small advertising shop it would quite be another story. Second, concern about number of users. The proliferating wireless APs and office devices bring much burdens to your network. Third, for concerns of future-proof expansion and a reliable backbone, even if your current 1GbE is unsaturated, Ethernet switch with 10Gb uplinks is also a good solution for enterprises with hardware upgrading demands. But if the aforesaid factors not concerned, your gigabit Ethernet switch with 1Gb uplink may suit your network just fine.

Conclusion

Both 10Gb uplink and 1Gb uplink on Ethernet switch are designed for link aggregation of multi-layer switch connection. Ethernet gigabit switch with 10Gb uplink enables total 10Gbps bandwidth to divide to end devices for accessing max. 1G speed. While Ethernet switch with 1Gb uplink delivers max. 100Mbps data rate to 10 devices. For concerns of high bandwidth applications, multiple office devices quantity and future-proof expansion, Ethernet switch with 10Gb uplink is the way to go. Otherwise your existing gigabit switch with 1Gb uplink can make sense.

Layer 2, Layer 3 & Layer 4 Switch: What’s the Difference?

Network switches are always seen in data centers for data transmission. Many technical terms are used with the switches. Have you ever noticed that they are often described as Layer 2, Layer 3 or even Layer 4 switch? What are the differences among these technologies? Which layer is better for deployment? Let’s explore the answers through this post.

What Does “Layer” Mean?

In the context of computer networking and communication protocols, the term “layer” is commonly associated with the OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model, which is a conceptual framework that standardizes the functions of a telecommunication or computing system into seven abstraction layers. Each layer in the OSI model represents a specific set of tasks and functionalities, and these layers work together to facilitate communication between devices on a network.

The OSI model is divided into seven layers, each responsible for a specific aspect of network communication. These layers, from the lowest to the highest, are the Physical layer, Data Link layer, Network layer, Transport layer, Session layer, Presentation layer, and Application layer. The layering concept helps in designing and understanding complex network architectures by breaking down the communication process into manageable and modular components.

In practical terms, the “layer” concept can be seen in various networking devices and protocols. For instance, when discussing switches or routers, the terms Layer 2, Layer 3, or Layer 4 refer to the specific layer of the OSI model at which these devices operate. Layer 2 devices operate at the Data Link layer, dealing with MAC addresses, while Layer 3 devices operate at the Network layer, handling IP addresses and routing. Therefore, switches working on different layers of OSI model are described as Lay 2, Layer 3 or Layer 4 switches.

OSI model

Switch Layers

Layer 2 Switching

Layer 2 is also known as the data link layer. It is the second layer of OSI model. This layer transfers data between adjacent network nodes in a WAN or between nodes on the same LAN segment. It is a way to transfer data between network entities and detect or correct errors happened in the physical layer. Layer 2 switching uses the local and permanent MAC (Media Access Control) address to send data around a local area on a switch.

layer 2 switching

Layer 3 Switching

Layer 3 is the network layer in the OSI model for computer networking. Layer 3 switches are the fast routers for Layer 3 forwarding in hardware. It provides the approach to transfer variable-length data sequences from a source to a destination host through one or more networks. Layer 3 switching uses the IP (Internet Protocol) address to send information between extensive networks. IP address shows the virtual address in the physical world which resembles the means that your mailing address tells a mail carrier how to find you.

layer 3 switching

Layer 4 Switching

As the middle layer of OSI model, Layer 4 is the transport layer. This layer provides several services including connection-oriented data stream support, reliability, flow control, and multiplexing. Layer 4 uses the protocol of TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) and UDP (User Datagram Protocol) which include the port number information in the header to identify the application of the packet. It is especially useful for dealing with network traffic since many applications adopt designated ports.

layer 4 switching

Which Layer to Use?

The decision to use Layer 2, Layer 3, or Layer 4 switches depends on the specific requirements and characteristics of your network. Each type of switch operates at a different layer of the OSI model, offering distinct functionalities:

Layer 2 Switches:

Use Case: Layer 2 switches are appropriate for smaller networks or local segments where the primary concern is local connectivity within the same broadcast domain.

Example Scenario: In a small office or department with a single subnet, where devices need to communicate within the same local network, a Layer 2 switch is suitable.

Layer 3 Switches:

Use Case: Layer 3 switches are suitable for larger networks that require routing between different subnets or VLANs.

Example Scenario: In an enterprise environment with multiple departments or segments that need to communicate with each other, a Layer 3 switch facilitates routing between subnets.

Layer 4 Switches:

Use Case: Layer 4 switches are used when more advanced traffic management and control based on application-level information, such as port numbers, are necessary.

Example Scenario: In a data center where optimizing the flow of data, load balancing, and directing traffic based on specific applications (e.g., HTTP or HTTPS) are crucial, Layer 4 switches can be beneficial.

Considerations for Choosing:

  • Network Size: For smaller networks with limited routing needs, Layer 2 switches may suffice. Larger networks with multiple subnets benefit from the routing capabilities of Layer 3 switches.
  • Routing Requirements: If your network requires inter-VLAN communication or routing between different IP subnets, a Layer 3 switch is necessary.
  • Traffic Management: If your network demands granular control over traffic based on specific applications, Layer 4 switches provide additional capabilities.

In many scenarios, a combination of these switches may be used in a network, depending on the specific requirements of different segments. It’s common to have Layer 2 switches in access layers, Layer 3 switches in distribution or core layers for routing, and Layer 4 switches for specific applications or services that require advanced traffic management. Ultimately, the choice depends on the complexity, size, and specific needs of your network environment.

Conclusion

With the development of technologies, the intelligence of switches is continuously progressing on different layers of the network. The mix application of different layer switches (Layer 2, Layer 3 and Layer 4 switch) is a more cost-effective solution for big data centers. Understanding these switching layers can help you make better decisions.

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Layer 2 vs Layer 3 Switch: Which One Do You Need? | FS Community