RFSwitching vs. Forwarding vs. Routing: Key Differences Explained
networking
switching
forwarding
routing
network layer
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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.
Image alt: switch connectivity
For more, you can refer to these resources: “switch basics” and “switch vs router basics”.
Forwarding
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).
Image alt: router connectivity
Refer to “router basics” for more details.
