Source learning for multi-path backplane data switch

摘要

A data switch includes multiple switching modules interconnected over a backplane. The backplane includes a unicast path and a multicast path between each pair of switching modules. Each packet having an unknown source address is forwarded on a multicast path. The switching architecture includes a management interface module for claiming each packet forwarded by the switching module having an unknown source address. The management interface module adds a source address/switching module association to the switching modules. Each packet having a known unicast destination address is forwarded on a unicast path, unless the packet has an unknown source address, in which case the packet is forwarded on a multicast path.