This article explains how to configure WAN protocols on a Layer 3 switch, covering both its operation and how this works in a WAN environment.
Layer 3 switching
The Layer 3 switching refers to a class of high-performance routers optimized for LANs or corporate intranets, can provide both switching and Ethernet services at wire speed. A Layer 3 switch router performs the following three main functions:
- Packet switching
- Processing route
- Intelligent Network Services
Compared to traditional routers, which are based on microprocessors, routers, Layer 3 switches are faster because they use a hardware ASIC (application-specific integrated circuit). Multiprotocol Layer 3 switches (by default) has a feature-rich operating system that includes Layer 3 IP static routing and routing protocols RIP, RIPv2, VRRP and OSPFv2. Depending on the supplier of the product may be available at different levels of advanced upgrades that will allow you to use a set of additional routing protocols such as IPX, AppleTalk, DVMRP, PIM-DM/SM, RSVP, and other specialized protocols nell’IPv6 consist in the BGP4 and in the OS, along with characteristics of load balancing and firewalls.
On the Wan
Again, according to the manufacturer, it might be available Network Services Module (NSM) with a set of Port Interface Card (PIC), which may provide connectivity to the Wide Area Network (WAN) for E1, T1, ISDN PRI, ISDN BRI, asynchronous and synchronous communications, frame relay and X.25. Some of these NMS have even a Layer 3 IP static routing and routing protocols RIP, RIPv2, VRRP and OSPFv2. These features not only equip the routing device able to operate as a Layer 3 managed switch, but also to act as a router with interfaces and fully dedicated WAN.
An L3 switch can be used in a WAN environment?
The answer to this question depends substantially from the situation and the supplier. An L3 switch typically has a more limited feature set compared to a WAN router. Before using a L3 switch to WAN application you check the following:
- The L3 switch has the necessary physical interfaces, such as a T1 with integrated CSU / DSU?
- The L3 switch has all the software features you need?
Examples include support for frame relay and MPLS, packet fragmentation and interleaving for ilVoIP, the initial compression, firewall, and so on. The most relevant features depend on your specific situation. Generally, most users prefer to buy a complete WAN router rather than using an L3 switch so as to avoid the risk of being able to find appropriate without some key features.