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A network device that moves data
traffic between networks. Switch often incorporate some of the functions of
a router but are generally simpler in operation, making decisions only about
the next destination of a piece of data rather than planning complex routes.
Most networks on the internet use packet-switching to move data
around, although some such as those based on atm, are in part
circuit-switched. the type of switch determines many of a network's
fundamental characteristics and is the cause of much disagreement between
bellheads and netheads. |
