Method and apparatus for finding a match entry using receive port number embedded in the port vector

摘要

A network switch configured for switching data packets across multiple ports uses an address table to generated frame forwarding information. The switch receives frame information including a source address and destination address along with a virtual local area network (VLAN) ID, if applicable. A decision-making engine searches a network address table to “learn” Medium Access Control (MAC) addresses without having to store receive port numbers by embedding the receive port number in the stored port vector fields.