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| 4.1 |  | Methods of Inter-VLAN Routing |
| 4.1.1 |  | Key components of Inter-VLAN routing |

In order to provide routing between VLANs, three key components must be present. These are a VLAN capable switch, a router, and some form of connectivity between the two.

The router can either be an external standalone unit or it can be integrated within the switch hardware. Common names used to describe routers that are integrated within the switch itself include: Route Switch Module (RSM), Route Processor (RP), Layer 3 Services Module or the switch is simply referred to as a Layer 3 switch.

If an external router is employed to perform Inter-VLAN routing, then connection to the switch can be via a separate Ethernet/Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet link for each VLAN or a single trunking link can be utilized.