N10-005 · Question #521
Which of the following differentiates a layer 3 switch from a layer 2 switch?
The correct answer is A. Routing. The key differentiator between a Layer 3 switch and a Layer 2 switch is that a Layer 3 switch can perform IP routing between subnets and VLANs, in addition to standard switching. A Layer 2 switch has no routing capability.
Question
Which of the following differentiates a layer 3 switch from a layer 2 switch?
Options
- ARouting
- BBridging
- CSwitching
- DRepeating
How the community answered
(29 responses)- A93% (27)
- C3% (1)
- D3% (1)
Why each option
The key differentiator between a Layer 3 switch and a Layer 2 switch is that a Layer 3 switch can perform IP routing between subnets and VLANs, in addition to standard switching. A Layer 2 switch has no routing capability.
A Layer 3 switch includes hardware-based routing logic that allows it to forward packets between different IP subnets and VLANs using IP addresses, a function that Layer 2 switches cannot perform. This makes Layer 3 switches suitable for inter-VLAN routing without requiring a separate router, combining the speed of switching with the intelligence of routing.
Bridging is a Layer 2 function performed by both Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches - it does not differentiate them.
Switching (MAC address-based frame forwarding) is the core function of both Layer 2 and Layer 3 switches and does not differentiate the two.
Repeating is a Layer 1 function performed by hubs and signal repeaters, not a distinguishing feature of any type of switch.
Concept tested: Layer 3 switch routing vs. Layer 2 switch capabilities
Source: https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/support/docs/switches/catalyst-3750-series-switches/72846-layer3-switches.html
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