Exploring Switches

Learn how switches enable efficient network communication using forwarding tables and ARP.

Switches are the backbone of modern networking. Unlike hubs, switches forward data intelligently using MAC address tables.

Switches deliver full bandwidth to each device unlike shared bandwidth in hubs
They use forwarding tables to find the correct port for a device

📘 Forwarding Table

The switch checks the frame's destination address against its forwarding table to determine the correct port. Unmatched entries are dropped or flooded.

🧠 Address Resolution Protocol (ARP)

Switches maintain ARP tables containing the IP and MAC address mappings of devices. This allows accurate delivery of Ethernet frames.

✅ Key Takeaway:

Switches improve performance by delivering data only where needed and tracking connected devices using ARP.

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🧠 Quick Quiz: Test Your Switching Knowledge

1. What is a key advantage of switches over hubs?

They can operate on both IPv4 and IPv6 networks
Each device gets full bandwidth rather than shared bandwidth
They do not require power to operate
They are used only for wireless networks

2. What is the role of the forwarding table in a switch?

It stores DNS mappings
It encrypts packets for security
It identifies which port to forward an incoming frame to
It blocks unauthorized MAC addresses

3. What does ARP do in a network?

Encrypts all transmitted data
Assigns IP addresses to devices
Maps IP addresses to MAC addresses
Authenticates users on the network

4. What happens when a switch doesn't know the destination MAC address?

It drops the frame
It redirects the frame to the firewall
It floods the frame to all ports
It stores the frame for later delivery

5. Why is the ARP table important for switches?

It helps manage wireless security settings
It balances network traffic between VLANs
It tracks MAC and IP address pairs of connected devices
It provides DNS lookups to end devices

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