Layer 2/Layer 3 switching

Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching are methods used by network devices to direct data. Layer 2 switching operates at the data link layer, using MAC addresses to move data between devices on the same network segment efficiently. Layer 3 switching occurs at the network layer, using IP addresses to route data across different networks or subnets. Essentially, Layer 2 is like a local switch sorting your mail within a building, while Layer 3 is like a postal service directing mail between cities. Both improve network speed and organization, with Layer 3 capable of handling more complex, large-scale traffic.