Cisco LAN Switching Fundamentals

Switching Data

Regardless of how many bytes of each frame are examined by the switch, the frame must eventually be switched from the input or ingress port to one or more output or egress ports. A switch fabric is a general term for the communication channels used by the switch to transport frames, carry forwarding decision information, and relay management information throughout the switch. A comparison could be made between the switching fabric in a Catalyst switch and a transmission on an automobile. In an automobile, the transmission is responsible for relaying power from the engine to the wheels of the car. In a Catalyst switch, the switch fabric is responsible for relaying frames from an input or ingress port to one or more output or egress ...