Network switches are at different levels in the network and play a key role in connecting different devices and forwarding data packets. The following is a detailed explanation of the layers and specific roles of network switches in the network:
Location: Network switches are located at the physical layer of the network and are responsible for connecting various physical media, such as Ethernet, optical fiber, etc.
Function: At the physical layer, the main function of the switch is to provide physical connections to connect different devices to the network. It allows multiple devices to communicate over a LAN and provides ports to connect to the network through physical interfaces.
Position: At the data link layer, a network switch is a key network device responsible for exchanging data between devices within the same LAN.
Function: At the data link layer, the switch uses the MAC address table to forward data packets from one port to another based on the destination MAC address. It enables frame forwarding and switching based on MAC address and enables fast and reliable data transmission within the LAN.
Location: At the network layer and above, network switches usually do not intervene directly, but forward data packets to upper-layer devices for processing, such as routers or firewalls.
Function: At the network layer and above, the main function of the switch is to transmit data packets from the source device to the destination device and ensure fast transmission and reliable forwarding of data. It is responsible for forwarding and switching data packets based on their destination IP address and subnet information.
In short, network switches play a key role in connecting devices in the network and realizing data exchange and forwarding within the LAN. It is located at the physical layer and data link layer of the network and is responsible for providing physical connections and forwarding data packets based on MAC addresses to achieve efficient communication within the LAN.
