The purpose of this paper is to assess the switching requirements for next-generation campus networks incorporating wired switches, wireless LANs and WAN routers in an intuitive, intent-based network supporting cloud, mobility, IoT and digitization, with pervasive security.

As the primary core and edge elements of the campus networks, switches must help process, forward and enforce policy among all of the other network elements – from the wireless LANs that provide access into the network, to the WAN routers that connect it to remote regions and sites, and the outside world.

This paper is intended to evaluate the necessary processing, programmability and intelligent management features of next-generation campus switches as they serve as stewards of the entire network in the evolving enterprise.