Product Overview

Cisco CMS Software enables network managers to manage the entire LAN through a single Web interface.

Q:What are the differences between the various Cisco Catalyst Series switches?

The Cisco Catalyst Series switches provide a comprehensive set of management tools to simplify the deployment and management of switches and intelligent network services. The CiscoWorks family of Web-based management tools enables network administrators to easily and quickly deploy end-to-end network services. Configuration, administration, monitoring, fault detection, troubleshooting, and remote monitoring capabilities can all be handled through an easy-to-use interface.

In addition to these Catalyst family management tools, the individual switches offer enhanced management tools:

•Embedded at no additional cost in Cisco Catalyst 3550 and 2950 Intelligent Ethernet Series switches, Cisco Cluster Management Suite (CMS) Software enables network administrators to remotely manage and monitor the entire LAN through a simple, point-and-click interface, without having to learn command-line inter- face (CLI). Up to 16 switches can be configured at once using any standard Web browser, saving tremendous time. This tool also eases the deployment of intelligent services, providing wizards that automatically optimize networks for video stream- ing or videoconferencing, voice over IP, critical data applications, and security features. A Guide Mode provides step-by-step instructions and online help.

•The Catalyst 4500 Series simplifies network management and control with a single software image and IP address for device management, a comprehensive set of management tools offering a wide variety of interface options, and well-designed system default settings.

•In the Catalyst 6500 Series, Element Manager Software leverages the Cisco Element Manager Framework (CEMF) to manage and monitor one or more specific devices. Through an intuitive user interface, each Element Manager eases and accelerates deployment, enables efficient operation of large network environments, and streamlines the provisioning process. Each Element Manager also provides fault and element management without requiring detailed knowledge of Cisco IOS Software or SNMP.

A:They’re part of the same team, just playing different positions.

Four distinct Catalyst product lines play key roles in the switched network —the Cisco Catalyst 2950 Series and Cisco Catalyst 3550 Series Intelligent Ethernet Switches, and the Cisco Catalyst 4500 Series and Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series.

The Cisco Catalyst switches you select will vary depending on location, interface, port density, service, and feature requirements. Each series includes a choice of models to suit a range of needs, but here’s a general breakdown:

•Cisco Catalyst 2950 Series makes it easy and affordable to deploy intelligent services at the network edge with new fixed-configuration, stackable models that provide wire-speed Fast Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet, and Long-Reach Ethernet desktop connectivity. Long-Reach Ethernet enables network extension over Category 1, 2, and 3 wiring. Designed for small and medium-sized businesses and small enterprises, Catalyst 2950 Series Intelligent Ethernet switches can be paired with a Catalyst 3550 Series Intelligent Ethernet switch to enable IP routing from the core of the network to its edge.