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network-programmingmac-address

how the network card's MAC address is used for communication between devices?

Could you guys help me with that question in the title? I didn't find much useful and objective on the internet to answer.

Solution

  • You need to understand OSI Model. Following is the answer specific to your question:

    Layer 2 Communication Process:

    • Machine A lookup’s for Machine D MAC address in its ARP table.

    • If MAC Address found then packet is formed and sent to Switch A.

    • If MAC address not found then ARP Request is generated and MAC address is obtained.

    • Switch A receives packet and checks for MAC Address in its MAC Address Table.

    • If MAC Address matched it will forward packet on matched port number.

    • If MAC Address not found then the packet is broadcasted to all ports, except on which it has received the packet.

    • Machine D receives packet from Switch A which was sent by Machine A.

    • When Machine D will reply, same process will be followed as switching is done.

    Source: https://community.cisco.com/t5/networking-documents/overview-of-layer-2-switched-networks-and-communication/ta-p/3128423