Section 6.2: Routing with an Integrated Router

Early approaches to interVLAN routing used external routers and physical links. Further developments have moved the route processor inside the switch, for convenience and tighter integration of the Layer 2 and 3 components. Cisco offers several types of integrated route processors in its Catalyst switch family. These include:

• Route Switch Module (RSM) and Route Switch Feature Card (RSFC)

• Multilayer Switch Feature Card (MSFC)

Each of these route processors can also participate in MLS, where the switch creates shortcut paths with the assistance of a route processor.