Key Features | Cisco Systems 350 specification

Chapter 1 Overview

Key Features

This section describes the key features of the bridge firmware. The following are the key features of version 12.01T:

•Multiple IEEE 802.11 service set identifiers (SSIDs) to create different levels of network access and to access virtual LANs (VLANs)—You can configure up to 16 separate SSIDs to support up to 16 VLANs on your network. Each VLAN can have a different wireless security configuration so that the devices that support the latest Cisco security enhancements can exist alongside legacy devices. This additional bridge functionality enables a variety of users having different security levels to access different parts of the network.

•Quality of service (QoS) to allow various devices on the network to communicate more effectively—The bridge now supports QoS for wireless Voice over IP (VoIP) telephones and downlink prioritized channel access for streaming audio and video traffic. Filters can also be set to prioritize traffic based on VLAN, VoIP address-based filters, protocol, or port.

•Centralized administrator authentication uses an AAA server to authenticate users if the user administration feature is enabled on the bridge. The AAA server verifies the user login and passes back the appropriate privileges for the user or an administrator.

•Best handling of lost Ethernet links allows a number of actions to be executed when a bridge loses backbone connectivity:

–No action—the bridge continues to maintain associations with clients and manages traffic between them, but traffic to the backbone is not passed. When the backbone is restored, the bridge begins passing traffic to and from the wired network.

–Switch to repeater mode—the bridge tries to connect to a root access point using any of the configured SSIDs. If it cannot connect, all clients are disassociated and the bridge removes itself from the wireless network until connectivity is restored.

–Shut the radio off—all clients are disassociated and the bridge removes itself from the wireless network until backbone connectivity is restored.

–Restrict to SSID—the bridge allows association using a restricted SSID (for administrator troubleshooting and diagnosis purposes).

•Authentication server management includes two new features in release 12.01T:

–Display of active authentication servers—for each authentication type: 802.1x/LEAP, MAC, or Admin Authentication (if enabled), the active server is identified by a green color.

–Automatic return to primary authentication server—if the selected RADIUS server (primary) is not reachable after a predetermined period of time-out and retries, the bridge uses the next server listed.

Reporting bridges that fail authentication with LEAP provide a passive method of detecting rogue bridges in a LEAP enabled network. It is passive because bridges do not actively look for or detect a rogue bridge in the wireless network. Instead, the bridge depends on LEAP enabled clients to report rouge bridges.

•Secure Shell (SSH) support for providing a strong user authentication and encryption of management traffic. SSH is a software package that provides a cryptographically secure replacement for or an alternative to Telnet. It provides strong host-to-host and user authentication as well as secure encrypted communications over a non secure network. The feature operates as follows:

–The SSH server on the access point listens to its TCP port 22 for requests.

–When a request from a client is received, the access point sends a public key, supported cipher specification details, and supported authentication type (password only) to the client.

Cisco Aironet 350 Series Bridge Software Configuration Guide

1-2	OL-1410-07

350 specifications

Cisco Systems has long been a prominent player in the realm of networking and communications technology. Among its comprehensive product lineup, the Cisco 350 and 340 series of switches stand out as reliable solutions for businesses looking to enhance their network performance.

The Cisco 350 series, often referred to for its accessibility and performance, is designed for small to medium-sized enterprises. It offers a versatile set of features that cater to various networking needs. Key characteristics include a range of models supporting 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet ports, which allow for high-speed connectivity. The series also supports PoE (Power over Ethernet) capabilities, enabling devices such as IP phones and wireless access points to receive power directly through the network connection. This not only simplifies deployment but also minimizes the need for additional power supplies.

Cisco's Intelligent Prosumer Networking features are incorporated into the 350 series, enabling enhanced security and management capabilities. The switches provide Layer 2 and Layer 3 functionality for routing and switching, allowing users to segment their networks efficiently and reduce broadcast traffic. Additionally, Quality of Service (QoS) features prioritize critical applications, ensuring a smooth user experience without interruptions.

On the other side, the Cisco 340 series builds on similar performance foundations but targets environments requiring even more robust capabilities. It includes advanced features such as StackWise technology, which provides scalability and redundancy. This allows multiple switches to operate as a single unit, improving network resilience and simplifying management.

Both the 350 and 340 series incorporate Cisco's Smart Group technology, facilitating streamlined configuration and easier monitoring of network performance. Furthermore, with Cisco DNA (Digital Network Architecture) capabilities, these switches can support automation and insights through analytics, enabling IT teams to respond rapidly to network demands.

In terms of security, both series are equipped with advanced features that prevent unauthorized access and support secure management protocols. They include features like Access Control Lists (ACLs) and storm control, further protecting network integrity.

Overall, whether you opt for the Cisco 350 or 340 series, you will benefit from a robust set of features designed for modern networking challenges, along with the innovation and reliability that Cisco Systems is known for. These switches provide scalable, efficient, and secure solutions to support business growth and operational efficiency.