An IPswitchingprotocol developed by 3Com. Fast IP differs from other IP switching in that the end user initiates the process, not a router or switch. The end user establishes a layer 2 connection through source and destinationMAC addresses. The originating device sends a packet over layer 3 to the router, which forwards the packet to the destination address, upon which the destination device returns a response using the sender’s layer 2 address. Once the direct connection has been established, the sending device can then send further data directly to the receiving device without having to hop through routers.
Webopedia's "Did You Know...?" Section Use this Webopedia knowledge section for an in-depth overview of specific technologies and occurrences in the areas of Computer Science, The Internet, and Computer Hardware and Software.
Webopedia's Quick Reference Section Use this Webopedia reference section for information on common Internet and computer facts and occurrences.
