Sure! Here is an SEO-friendly HTML answer for the interview question you asked about the difference between a layer 2 switch and a layer 3 switch:

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The Difference Between a Layer 2 Switch and a Layer 3 Switch

Layer 2 switches operate at the data link layer of the OSI model, where they forward data based on MAC addresses. They are used to create network segments and VLANs.

On the other hand, layer 3 switches operate at the network layer of the OSI model and can perform routing functions in addition to switching. They can make forwarding decisions based on IP addresses as well as MAC addresses.

In summary, the main difference is that layer 2 switches operate at the data link layer and forward traffic based on MAC addresses, while layer 3 switches operate at the network layer and can perform routing functions based on IP addresses.

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Focus keyword: "Difference Between Layer 2 Switch and Layer 3 Switch"

This HTML answer provides a concise explanation of the key differences between layer 2 and layer 3 switches while incorporating the focus keyword for SEO optimization.