Terminology » Networking Basics » Switching vs. Forwarding vs. Routing: Key Differences Explained

Switching vs. Forwarding vs. Routing: Key Differences Explained

networking switching forwarding routing network layer

Let’s break down the differences between switching, forwarding, and routing in networking. These terms are often used interchangeably, but they represent distinct processes with specific functions.

Switching

The device that performs switching is called a switch.

  • How it works: A switch operates using a lookup table and makes decisions in hardware.
  • What it checks: The switch examines the destination MAC address in the packet.
  • What it does: It then forwards the packet to the appropriate destination host based on the MAC address.
  • OSI Layer: Operates at Layer 2, the Data Link Layer.

switch connectivity Image alt: switch connectivity

For more, you can refer to these resources: “switch basics” and “switch vs router basics”.

Forwarding

MPLS Label Switching Image alt: MPLS Label Switching

  • How it works: Forwarding simply moves a packet to the next hop without deep inspection.
  • What it checks: It typically looks at the MPLS label in the packet and verifies it in a flow table.
  • What it does:
    • If the destination is in the same subnet, it forwards the packet to the corresponding port of the destination host.
    • If the destination is in a different subnet, it forwards the packet to the next MPLS router.

Refer to “MPLS Switch basics” for additional information.

Routing

The device that performs routing is called a router.

  • How it works: A router operates based on a routing table.
  • OSI Layer: Operates at Layer 3, the Network Layer.
  • What it checks: It works based on IP addresses.
  • What it does: It determines the best path for a packet to reach its destination using protocols like RIP (Routing Information Protocol) and OSPF (Open Shortest Path First).

router connectivity Image alt: router connectivity

Refer to “router basics” for more details.