4.2 Introduction to LAN Switching  
  4.2.5 Basic operations of a switch  
Switching is a technology that decreases congestion in Ethernet, Token Ring, and Fiber Distributed Data Interface (FDDI) LANs. Switching accomplishes this by reducing traffic and increasing bandwidth. LAN switches are often used to replace shared hubs and are designed to work with existing cable infrastructures.

Switching equipment performs the following two basic operations:

  • Switching data frames
  • Maintaining switching operations  

 Figures - show the basic operations of a switch.