7.1 MLS Processes
7.1.2 MLS hardware and software requirements
Multilayer switching can be implemented by using a Layer 3 switch or an external router topology. A Layer 3 switch contains a route processor module and Layer 3 switch feature card. IP MLS requires the following software and hardware:
  • Catalyst 2926G, 5000, or 6000 Series Switch with Supervisor Engine Software Release 4.1(1) or later
  • Cisco IOSŪ Release 11.3(2)WA4(4) or later for the Router Module
  • Supervisor Engine III or III F with the NFFC (NetFlow Feature Card) II, or Supervisor Engine II G or III G for the Catalyst 5000 Series Switch 
  • Route Module for the Catalyst 5000 Series Switch (RSM or RSFC - Router Switch Feature Card)
  • Supervisor Engine I or II with MSFC (Multilayer Switch Feature Card) or MSFC II for the Catalyst 6000 Series Switch

Note: The NFFC allows for Layer 3 switching functionality on a Catalyst 5000 series switch. The Catalyst 5000 series RSFC provides multiprotocol routing for Catalyst LAN switches. It interfaces with the Catalyst switch backplane to provide interVLAN routing. The MSFC for the Catalyst 6000 family switches provides multiprotocol routing with up to 15 million packets per second of Layer 3 switching between Ethernet interfaces. 

IPX MLS requires the following software and hardware:

  • Catalyst 2926G, 5000, or 6000 Series Switch with Supervisor Engine Software Release 5.1(1) or later
  • Supervisor Engine III or III F with the NFFC II, or Supervisor Engine II G or III G for the Catalyst 5000 Series Switch
  • Catalyst 6000 Series Switch with Supervisor Engine I or II with MSFC or MSFC II
  • Cisco IOS Release 12.0XE, 12.0W5, 12.1.E or later for the Router Module

MLS can also be implemented with an external router and a Catalyst 5000 Series Switch combination. The following equipment is necessary when implementing IP MLS with an external router and Catalyst 5000 Series Switch combination:

  • Catalyst 2926G, 5000, or 6000 Series Switch with Supervisor Engine Software Release 4.1(1) or later
  • Supervisor Engine III or III F with the NFFC II, or Supervisor Engine II G or III G
  • Cisco high-end routers, such as Cisco 7500, 7200, 4500, or 4700 Series
  • Cisco IOS Release 11.3(2)WA4(4) or later for the high-end router

The connection between the external router and the switch can be Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, or Gigabit Links. The Links can also be configured as EtherChannels and/or Trunk Ports, IEEE 82.1 Q or ISL.