/swɪtʃ/
noun — "the network’s smart connector that keeps data flowing to the right place."
Switch is a network device that connects multiple devices within a LAN and forwards data frames only to the intended destination device, improving efficiency and reducing collisions compared to hubs. Switches operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) and can also function at the network layer (Layer 3) for routing capabilities.
Technically, a Switch maintains a MAC address table to map devices and ports, ensuring data is delivered accurately and efficiently. Advanced switches support VLANs, QoS (QoS), link aggregation, and port security, enabling traffic prioritization and network segmentation for better performance and security.
Key characteristics of Switches include:
- Frame forwarding: sends data only to the correct device based on MAC addresses.
- VLAN support: segments networks for improved management and security.
- Traffic management: includes QoS and link aggregation for efficiency.
- Security: can enforce port-level security and prevent unauthorized access.
- Scalability: connects multiple devices without degrading performance.
In practical workflows, switches are deployed in offices, data centers, and homes to connect computers, printers, servers, and access points, managing local traffic and optimizing bandwidth usage.
Conceptually, a Switch is like a mail sorter, directing each piece of data to the correct mailbox instead of broadcasting to everyone.
Intuition anchor: Switch ensures data reaches exactly where it needs to go efficiently.