VLAN-aware MAC-based Switching

The device always performs VLAN-aware bridging. Classic bridging(IEEE802.1D) is not performed, where frames are forwarded based only on their destination MAC address. However, a similar functionality can be configured for untagged frames. Frames addressed to a destination MAC address that is not associated with any port are flooded to all ports of the relevant VLAN.

MAC Multicast Support

Multicast service is a limited broadcast service, which allows one-to-many and many-to-many connections for information distribution. Layer 2 Multicast service is where a single frame is addressed to a specific Multicast address, from where copies of the frame are transmitted to the relevant ports. When Multicast groups are statically enabled, you can set the destination port of registered groups, as well as define the behavior of unregistered multicast frames.

For more information, see "Assigning Multicast Forward All Parameters."

Layer 2 Features

IGMP Snooping

Internet Group Membership Protocol (IGMP) Snooping examines IGMP frame contents, when they are forwarded by the device from work stations to an upstream Multicast router. From the frame, the device identifies work stations configured for Multicast sessions, and which Multicast routers are sending Multicast frames. IGMP Querier simulates the behavior of a multicast router; this allows snooping of the layer 2 multicast domain even if there is no multicast router.

For more information, see "IGMP Snooping."

Port Mirroring

Port mirroring monitors and mirrors network traffic by forwarding copies of incoming and outgoing packets from a monitored port to a monitoring port. Users specify which target port receives copies of all traffic passing through a specified source port.

For more information, see "Defining Port Mirroring Sessions."

Broadcast Storm Control

Storm Control enables limiting the amount of Multicast and Broadcast frames accepted and forwarded by the device.

When Layer 2 frames are forwarded, Broadcast and Multicast frames are flooded to all ports on the relevant VLAN. This occupies bandwidth, and loads all nodes connected on all ports.

For more information, see "Enabling Storm Control."

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Introduction

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Dell 3548 manual Layer 2 Features