Abstract: A switching matrix comprises an input stage for assigning incoming data to a connection, a memory element having a plurality of FIFO's which are each time assigned to a connection to buffer-store the incoming data, an output stage to emit the data buffer-stored in the FIFO's, and a control unit. The control unit is set up to define a sub-area of the memory element as a FIFO and to assign it to a transmission connection extending across the switching matrix.