5.2. Other Specialized Devices

In addition to the network connectivity devices I've discussed with you, there are several devices that, while maybe not directly connected to a network, do actively participate in moving network data. Here's a list of them:

  • Multilayer switch

  • Content switch

  • Intrusion Detection or Prevention System (IDS/IPS)

  • Load balancer

  • Multifunction network devices

  • DNS server

  • Bandwidth shaper

  • Proxy server

  • Channel Service Unit/Data Service Unit (CSU/DSU)

5.2.1. Multilayer Switch

A multilayer switch (MLS) is a computer networking device that switches on Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Layer 2 like an ordinary network switch but provides extra functions on higher OSI layers, like Layer 3, for routing.

The major difference between the ...

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