Multi-layer destributed network element

摘要: A distributed multi-layer network element (201) delivering Layer 2 (data link layer) wire-speed performance within and across subnetworks, allowing queuing decisions to be based in 3 (network protocol endstation information combined with topology information. The performs packet relay functions using multiple switching subsystems (210) as building blocks coupled each other form a larger switch that acts both router bridge. Each subsystem includes hardware forwarding search engine having (211) memory (213) an associated (214). their fully meshed interconnection allow the scale easily without significantly increasing storage requirements of memory.