In this paper, we propose a hybrid network architecture, called Content-based Switching Network (CSN), and its signaling scheme, which addresses the issues inherent to conventional hybrid networks which implement a horizontal separation over the entire network (from edge to edge). We will show how CSN nodes can flexibly choose their switching paradigm (store-and-forward, optical bypass, electrical bypass) during a path establishment. Contents being transferred in one piece from end-to-end, the concept of packet can be eluded in our network, and, in particular, the user is able to avoid complicated transport layer functions, like TCP, if they are not essential. In CSN, very large contents have a special status, since they cannot be store-and-forwarded. We will show how the resource management has been designed in order to deal with such contents. A section is dedicated to deployment and feasibility issues. Simulation results will show that CSN can successfully transfer contents at 1 Gbps and 10 Gbps, the maximum speed being limited by the state-of-the-art device technologies when buffering is required (memory speed), while no major limit is observed in the case of all-optical transfers other than the optical fiber speed. Other results concern the deployment of CSN from an unclean slate approach. They will show how beneficial can be the deployment of CSN from an Optical Circuit Switching network.