MSFC stands for multilayer switch feature card and it provides the switching service for computer hardware.  In a typical setup, computer hardware is divided into different layers.  In order for these layers to work efficiently together in terms of data connections and re-routing of network signals for example, some switching and routing is needed for these purposes.  In the case of MSFC, they are usually part of the supervisor module or card that takes care of handling logical computations and the forwarding of computing decisions.

Computer hardware switching is basically based on the multi-layer standard as prescribed by the OSI or Open Systems Interconnection model.  This standard ensures that the different layers of computer processing and communication are able to work and support each other for efficiency.  In the case of the OSI model, 7 layers are identified as the basic requirement. Layers that are adjacent to each other are those that work together for a specific task.  In the case of data communication for example, the upper layer of the OSI model may be recruited to help provide the way for transmission to be smooth.  The lower adjacent layer may also be involved in getting all packets of data.  In this way, more success may be achieved in terms of data communication and transmission.  As for the MSFC or the multilayer switch feature card, its main function is to provide a gateway for the Data Link layer to communicate with the Network layer.  Data link is labelled as Layer 2 and it is responsible for data connection.  With the help of the MSFC, the data from this layer is transmitted and routed through Layer 3 or the Network layer.  Without the MSFC, routing and switching of data across a network may not proceed with high speed and great efficiency.

For high-performance computers, multilayer switching is necessary in order for data to be transported or routed across the network.  This is where the MSFC or the multilayer switch feature card comes in.  With its important task, most computers have the MSFC card integrated with the supervisor module which handles the logical computing functions.