What does an SVI stand for in a Cisco switch?

An SVI stands for Switch Virtual Interface, which is a virtual interface on a Layer 3 switch used for routing. An SVI allows for communication between different VLANs within a Layer 2 network by functioning as a gateway for that VLAN. Each SVI corresponds to a specific VLAN and is configured with an IP address, enabling devices within that VLAN to communicate with other VLANs by routing through the switch. This capability is essential in scenarios where inter-VLAN traffic is necessary and allows for better traffic management and segmentation within a network.

This understanding is crucial for network design, particularly in environments that require efficient data flow and management between multiple VLANs. By utilizing SVIs, switches can perform Layer 3 functions, which enhances the overall capability of the network infrastructure.