What does layer-3, switched, full-duplex mean?
Layer-3: This refers to the Open System Interconnection (OSI) reference model which defines communication protocols into seven layers. The third layer of this model is the “Network” layer which includes the IP in TCP/IP and the IPX in IPX/SPX. Layer-3 is used by routers to forward data to the appropriate destination. Switching:A faster and more efficient method of bridging and/or routing performed by hardware versus software. Full-duplex:Traffic flow in both directions simultaneously. In layman terms, a layer 3 switch offers the ability to have high speed routing/switching functionality incorporated into one box. This alleviates the need for customers to purchase a dedicated router or burden a server with the routing function in order to connect to the backbone. Why the move from Token Ring? Because the Information Technology Council s standard for all new LAN installs is Fast Ethernet, because Ethernet / Fast Ethernet is less expensive, because the technology is ubiquitous, because th