[52376] in North American Network Operators' Group
Re: layer 3 switch debate
daemon@ATHENA.MIT.EDU (Stephen Sprunk)
Fri Sep 27 13:11:33 2002
From: "Stephen Sprunk" <ssprunk@cisco.com>
To: <ipdude@cattle-today.com>
Cc: <nanog@merit.edu>
Date: Fri, 27 Sep 2002 11:58:52 -0500
Errors-To: owner-nanog-outgoing@merit.edu
Thus spake "ip dude" <ipdude@cattle-today.com>
> IP Community:
>
> When designing an all IP network requiring mostly Ethernet interfaces, the
logical conclusion is to specify layer 3 switches (instead of routers). The cost
per port and functionality requirements make a layer 3 switch the perfect
choice. However, the rule of thumb in the IP community is that routers are
superior to layer 3 switches and should be utilized instead, especially when
considering core type functionality.
>
> Does this rule of thumb still apply considering the modern layer 3 switches
available? If not, why? What makes a layer 3 switch sub-standard to a pure
router? Any quantitative analysis you could provide would be greatly
appreciated.
"switch" is a marketing term meaning fast, nothing more. Any device that
operates at Layer 3 is a router by definition. Therefore, "Layer 3 switch"
means "fast router".
Now think about your question again.
S
