This route switch module, the latest member of the Catalyst 5000 series of line modules, provides the performance, scalability, and sophisticated multiprotocol capabilities of Cisco IOS software integrated into the award-winning Catalyst 5000 switch series. With the introduction of the route switch module, the Catalyst 5000 becomes the first truly multiprotocol, multilayer switch available today, and allows network managers the option to deploy cost-effective distributed Layer 3 services from the wiring closet to the data center.The route switch module provides high-performance, multilayer switching and routing services between switched virtual LANs (VLANs), emulated LANs (ELANs) within an Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) fabric, or across mixed media via Versatile Interface Processor (VIP) and port adapters.