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When a switch has the ability to learn what MAC addresses each of its ports serves, then uses that to determine which port to send ethernet packets out, what is that feature called?

Also, does every switch with that feature also support ethernet broadcasts?

I need to spec out some switches that have this functionality but I'm not sure what the correct terminology is.

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  • Both of these features are part of the primary function of all modern switches. Feb 14, 2014 at 22:20

2 Answers 2

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When a switch has the ability to learn what MAC addresses each of its ports serves, then uses that to determine which port to send ethernet packets out, what is that feature called?

That's called. Wait for it...switching. All switches do that, and it's a key differentiator between hubs and switches.

Also, does every switch with that feature also support ethernet broadcasts?

Yes.

I need to spec out some switches that have this functionality but I'm not sure what the correct terminology is.

If that's all you need, any $10 switch from your local tech store will do. Be advised, though, that you are going to want managed "smart" switches. You may not realize that want now, but you will kick yourself later if you purchase unmanaged switches.

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  • Ohhh; thanks. I really had it all wrong! I mistakenly thought this was something that only "managed" switches do, and I didn't really know what a hub did.
    – Jason C
    Feb 14, 2014 at 2:18
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    Fortunately hubs are going the way of the dodo.Hubs were more or less a "repeater", taking in a frame from one port and sending it out over all the other ports.
    – EEAA
    Feb 14, 2014 at 2:36
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It's called switching. If it didn't have that feature it would be a hub.

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