Standard Edition Software

Cisco Switch Clustering

Cisco takes stacking to a new level with its new Switch Clustering technology. This breakthrough technology enables up to 16 interconnected Catalyst 3500 XL, 2900 XL, and Catalyst 1900 switches, regardless of geographic proximity, to form a single-IP managed network. These switches can be clustered using a broad range of connectivity options to deliver various levels of performance to meet customer requirements. Clustering connectivity options for the Catalyst 3512 XL and Catalyst 3524 XL include Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, Fast EtherChannel®, low-cost Cisco GigaStack GBIC, Gigabit Ethernet, and Gigabit EtherChannel. Because customers are not limited by proprietary stacking modules and stacking cables, Cisco Switch Clustering technology expands the traditional stacking domain beyond a single wiring closet and lets users “mix and match” interconnections to meet speciﬁc management, performance, and cost requirements.

Catalyst 3500 XL switches can be conﬁgured either as command or member switches in a Cisco switch stack or cluster. The command switch serves as the single IP address management point and disburses all management instructions dictated by the network administrator. Command switches can cluster up to 15 additional interconnected member switches regardless of interconnection media.

Web-Based Switch Management:

Cisco Visual Switch Manager

The Catalyst 3512 XL and 3524 XL feature the Cisco Web-based management tool, Cisco Visual Switch Manager (CVSM), which allows network administrators to view and manage the switch from anywhere on the network through a standard browser such as Microsoft Internet Explorer or Netscape Navigator. CVSM is launched from the switch itself, and delivers simple network- and device-level management, including port configuration, virtual LAN (VLAN) setup, network views, and port monitoring. CVSM is an integral part of the Cisco scalable stacking architecture, allowing users to easily configure and manage stacks and switch clusters and to administer software upgrades across multiple switches.

Cisco Catalyst 3500 series XL Standard Edition switches include several exceptional features to increase network performance, manageability and security. The command switch feature delivers single-IP managed Cisco Switch Clustering technology to up to 16 interconnected Catalyst 3500 XL, 2900 XL, and Catalyst 1900 switches. Fast EtherChannel and Gigabit EtherChannel technology offer from 400-Mbps to 4-Gbps high-performance bandwidth among Catalyst switches, routers, and servers. Cisco Group Management Protocol (CGMP) enhances performance of multimedia applications and reduces network trafﬁc by allowing a switch to selectively and dynamically forward IP multicast trafﬁc to targeted end stations. Up to 250 port-based VLANs per switch allow data packets to be forwarded only to stations within a speciﬁc VLAN, creating a virtual ﬁrewall between groups of ports on the network. Network Time Protocol (NTP) provides a uniﬁed clock across the network, ensuring accurate time stamps for troubleshooting all network events. Media Access Control (MAC)-based port level security prevents unauthorized stations from accessing the switch. Multi-layer security on the switch console prevents unauthorized users from gaining access and altering the switch conﬁguration. All Standard Edition switches can be upgraded with the purchase of an optional Enterprise Edition upgrade kit.

Enterprise Edition Software

Enterprise Edition software includes all of the features of the Standard Edition and adds enhanced end-to-end VLAN support to your Catalyst 3500 series XL switch. Virtual LAN trunks can be created from any port using either 802.1Q trunking or the Cisco Inter-Switch Link (ISL) VLAN architecture. VLANs using standards-based 802.1Q and ISL trunking provide broadcast control and enhanced security, and simplify adds, moves and changes. TACACS+ authentication enables centralized access control of the switch and restricts unauthorized users from altering the conﬁguration. Uplink Fast technology ensures quick failover recovery, enhancing overall network stability and reliability. An Enterprise Edition switch is the best choice in a network that requires higher-level security, superior fail-safe redundancy, and end-to-end VLANs spanning multiple routers, chassis switches, and access servers.

3524 XL, 3512 XL specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a leader in networking technology, and the Catalyst 3524 XL and 3512 XL switches exemplify the company’s commitment to providing high-performance, scalable solutions for businesses. These devices, part of the Catalyst 2900 series, are known for their robust features, catering to the needs of both enterprise and small office environments.

The Cisco Catalyst 3524 XL switch offers twenty-four 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports, allowing for fast data transmission and efficient handling of network traffic. One of the standout features of the 3524 XL is its ability to support Power over Ethernet (PoE), which simplifies the deployment of devices such as IP phones and wireless access points by delivering power through the Ethernet cable. With a switching capacity of up to 8.8 Gbps, it ensures minimal congestion and high performance, making it an ideal choice for organizations looking to enhance their network infrastructure.

In contrast, the Cisco Catalyst 3512 XL switch is a more compact option, offering twelve 10/100 Mbps Ethernet ports. This model is particularly suited for small networks that do not require the extensive port density of larger switches. The 3512 XL benefits from similar technologies as its larger counterpart, including support for fast Ethernet and the ability to handle multiple network protocols effectively, ensuring seamless integration into existing systems.

Both the 3524 XL and 3512 XL switches support a range of advanced networking features, such as VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support, which enables network segmentation for improved security and performance. Additionally, they incorporate Cisco's own Quality of Service (QoS) technology, which prioritizes traffic flow and ensures that critical applications receive the necessary bandwidth.

Another key characteristic shared by both models is their reliability and ease of management. The switches are designed to be user-friendly, featuring an intuitive interface and support for SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), which allows network administrators to monitor performance and manage devices efficiently.

Overall, Cisco's Catalyst 3524 XL and 3512 XL switches provide organizations with essential features and technologies that support a robust, scalable networking environment. Their combination of performance, power management capability, and advanced networking features makes them valuable assets for businesses looking to build a reliable and efficient network infrastructure.