8-1. Multilayer Switching
Multilayer switching (MLS) performs Layer 3 switching by combining separate routing and switching functions on different switch modules.
MLS is supported on the Catalyst 6000 by the MSFC (route processor) and the PFC (Layer 3 switching engine). On the Catalyst 4000 and 5000 platforms, the route processor can be an external router.
MLS can perform Layer 3 switching for IP, IP multicast (also known as IP Multicast MLS or MMLS), and IPX traffic.
MLS operation consists of these steps:
- The route processor (RP) routs the first packet in a traffic flow.
- The switching engine (SE) sets up an MLS cache entry for the flow based on the first packet (a “candidate” packet).
- When the SE sees the return packet from the RP, the MLS cache ...
Become an O’Reilly member and get unlimited access to this title plus top books and audiobooks from O’Reilly and nearly 200 top publishers, thousands of courses curated by job role, 150+ live events each month,
and much more.
Read now
Unlock full access