What is the effect of the command ip default-gateway 172.16.100.1 applied to a switch?

When the command "ip default-gateway 172.16.100.1" is applied to a switch, it enables the switch to be remotely managed from another network. The default gateway serves as a point of exit for traffic destined for networks outside the local subnet. By configuring this command, the switch is informed about the next-hop router that can reach other networks. This means that if you try to access the switch's management interface from a different subnet, it will know how to reach the necessary network resources, allowing for remote management of the switch from that network.

This capability is crucial for network administrators who need to configure the switch or monitor its status from a remote location. Without a properly configured default gateway, the switch would not be able to send or receive management traffic to or from devices on other networks. Thus, having the default gateway set up is essential for effective network management, especially in larger and more complex infrastructures.