Difference between Layer 2 switch and Layer 3 switch

1. Difference between Layer 2 switch and Layer 3 switch The simplest way to describe the difference between Layer 2 switches and Layer 3 switches is to treat Layer 3 switches as routers and switches. Layer 3 switches can forward packets between different networks like routers, while layer 2 switches can only forward packets within the same network. The Layer 2 switch can only switch, that is, it forwards data packets from one port to the destination port through the MAC address. It maintains a MAC address table that allows it to remember which ports have MAC addresses associated with them. Layer 3 switch is a kind of switch in a sense. It allows you to connect devices located in the same subnet or virtual LAN, and it also acts as a router through built-in IP routing. When communicating within a VLAN (virtual local area network), it will use the MAC address table, but when working outside the VLAN, it will use the IP routing table. In addition to these functions, the three-layer switch can also check incoming packets, support routing protocols, and use the source address and destination address to determine where the packets should be routed. How to find the IP address of a network switch There are several different ways to find the IP address of a network switch, which are simple and fast. 1. Check the IP address range on the router Assuming that your network switch will be connected to your router, logging in to the router itself to check the use of IP addresses is a simple way to see which address is assigned to your switch. Enter the IP address of the router in the browser and log in with the user name and password. If you do not change these yourself, this is recommended for better security. You may find the default at the back or bottom of the router.

2. Different models of routers will have different IP addresses, but once you log in, you will see an option that allows you to view the IP addresses of all devices connected to your network. On my router, this is in Advanced Settings ->Home Networking ->Devices. The switch should be listed here, provided that it is actually powered on and connected to the network. 2. Use IP scanner Another simple way to find the IP address of a network switch is to use an IP scanning software. They will analyze your LAN, display all your network devices, allow you to access shared folders, provide remote access to computers, and allow you to shut down remotely. Network administrators think these tools are an important part of their daily work, when they solve problems. However, this does not mean that you cannot use them at home. In fact, they are highly recommended. They are easy to use and can provide you with the information you are looking for in a few seconds. Advanced IP Scanner is highly recommended and used for free. You don't even need to install it. If you want, you can run the portable version. When the application opens, just click the "Scan" button. After a few seconds, you will start to see the devices connected to the network, including their name, IP address, manufacturer and MAC address.

3. How long it takes to complete depends on how many devices you have connected, but even if many devices are connected, it will not take a long time. Final idea To sum up, unmanaged and Layer 2 switches have no IP addresses, while managed and Layer 3 switches have IP addresses. Assigning an IP address to a switch provides you with a way to remotely connect to the switch and perform the required configuration. Having an IP address is one of the prerequisites for Telnet. It is the method used to connect the switch.