Efficient message switching in a switching apparatus

A method of transferring packets/cells and messages within a switching apparatus, the method comprising:

• a) generating a message at one of a plurality of input units and output units, the message destined for another of the input units and output units;
• b) transferring the message via a message switch from the one of the plurality of input units and outputs units to the another of the input units and the output units;
• and
• c) transferring packets/cells from at least one of the input units to at least one of the output units via a packet/cell switch element separate from the message switch,
• wherein all messages generated at one of the plurality of input units and output units, and destined to another of the plurality of input units and output units, are switched by the message switch, and wherein all packets/cells transferred from one of the plurality of input units to one of the plurality of output units are switched by the packet/cell switch element.

A switching apparatus, comprising:

• a plurality of input units and a plurality of output units;
• a packet/cell switch element;
• and
• a message controller including a message switch separate from the packet/cell switch element,
• wherein all messages generated at one of the plurality of input units and output units, and destined to another of the plurality of input units and output units, are switched by the message switch, and
• wherein all packets/cells transferred from one of the plurality of input units to one of the plurality of output units are switched by the packet/cell switch element.