Difference between Layer1,2&3 switches

Networking
1

what is difference between Layer1,2&3 switches Please explain

2
  1. Layer 1 Switch (Physical Layer Switch):
  • Operates at the Physical layer (Layer 1) of the OSI model.
  • Primarily responsible for transmitting bits over a physical medium.
  • It uses the MAC (Media Access Control) addresses to forward data without any modification or analysis.
  • Mostly used in simple network setups or for extending network connectivity.
  1. Layer 2 Switch (Data Link Layer Switch):
  • Operates at the Data Link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI model.
  • Provides additional functionality compared to Layer 1 switches.
  • Uses MAC addresses to forward data frames within a LAN (Local Area Network).
  • Performs MAC address learning to build a MAC address table for efficient forwarding.
  • Supports VLANs (Virtual LANs) for logical network segmentation.
  • Can perform basic filtering and traffic control based on MAC addresses.
  1. Layer 3 Switch (Network Layer Switch):
  • Operates at the Network layer (Layer 3) of the OSI model.
  • Offers advanced routing capabilities in addition to Layer 2 switch functionality.
  • Supports IP routing and can make forwarding decisions based on IP addresses.
  • Maintains a routing table to determine the best path for data transmission.
  • Can perform packet filtering and implement access control lists (ACLs).
  • Enables inter-VLAN routing and can connect multiple subnets within a network.
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