New Features and Enhancements

The software version includes all the new features that have been added to AlliedWare Plus since the release of 5.4.2-0.1. This includes all features that were released in 5.4.2 minor releases.

This section summarizes the key new features. For a list of all new and enhanced features and commands, see “Changes in this Version” on page 10. For more information about all features on the switch, see the Software Reference for your switch. Unless otherwise stated, all new features and enhancements are available on all switch models running this version of AlliedWare Plus.

IPv6 Enhancements

PIM-SMv6

Software version 5.4.3 adds support for Protocol Independent Multicast - Sparse Mode for IPv6. PIM-SMv6 provides efficient communication between members of sparsely distributed groups in PIM-SM IPv6 networks.

MLD

Software version 5.4.3 expands the Alliedware plus support for Multicast Listener Discovery (MLD). MLD is the IPv6 equivalent of the Internet Group Management Protocol (IGMP) for IPv4. It is used by IPv6 routers to discover the presence of multicast listeners on their directly attached links and to discover which multicast addresses are of interest to those listeners. This ensures that multicast traffic is forwarded as efficiently as possible, conserving network bandwidth.

AlliedWare Plus now supports both MLDv1 and MLDv2. Previous releases supported MLD Snooping functionality. This release now supports MLDv2 Querier functionality.

Static IPv6 Multicast Routes

Software version 5.4.3 adds the ability to create static IPv6 multicast forwarding entries. Rather than relying on a dynamic multicast routing protocol like PIM to set up L3 multicast entries, it is possible to create the entries statically. Static IPv6 Multicasting has been added as a base license feature for AlliedWare Plus version 5.4.3.

DHCPv6

Software version 5.4.3 adds support for Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCPv6), which is a protocol used to dynamically assign IPv6 addresses to hosts from a central location. Acting as DHCPv6 client enables the switch to receive an IPv6 address, and acting as server enables the switch to dynamically allocate IPv6 addresses to hosts. The DHCPv6 server and client both support the Prefix Delegation feature which allocates a whole IPv6 subnet to a DHCP client. The client, in turn, can allocate addresses from this subnet to the hosts that are connected to it.

OSPFv3 Authentication/Confidentiality

Software version 5.4.3 adds support for OSPFv3 authentication and confidentiality, which enable the secure sharing of routing information by encrypting OSPFv3 messages.

VRRPv3

Software version 5.4.3 adds support for Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol for IPv6 networks, by implementing VRRPv3. VRRPv3 is a protocol for providing device redundancy, for connecting redundant WAN gateway routers or server access switches. It allows a backup router or switch to automatically take over if the primary (master) router or switch fails.

C613-10508-01-REV B

Software Release Note AlliedWare Plus Version 5.4.3-0.1

X510, X610 specifications

Allied Telesis has long been a key player in the networking industry, and their X610 and X510 series switches underscore this reputation with robust features aimed at businesses of all sizes. Designed to meet the demands of enterprise networks, these switches emphasize performance, flexibility, and ease of management.

The Allied Telesis X610 series is a high-performance layer 3 managed switch designed for core or aggregation layer deployments. With options for 24 or 48 gigabit Ethernet ports and multiple 10 Gigabit SFP+ uplinks, the X610 ensures high throughput and reduced latency, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications. The architecture supports advanced routing features, including IPv4 and IPv6 static routing, OSPF, and RIP, which enable seamless integration into an existing network infrastructure.

In contrast, the X510 series offers cost-effective solutions that do not compromise on performance. This series also provides layer 2 and layer 3 capabilities, making it suitable for both edge and aggregation layer deployments. Available with 24 or 48 gigabit Ethernet ports and optional SFP+ uplinks, the X510 can efficiently handle high volumes of network traffic while offering a variety of quality-of-service (QoS) features to prioritize critical applications.

Both the X610 and X510 incorporate the Allied Telesis management tool, AT-View, allowing for intuitive web-based management of network devices. This feature simplifies the configuration process and reduces operational overhead for IT teams. Moreover, the switches include support for SNMP and RMON, facilitating comprehensive monitoring and reporting.

Security is paramount in today's networking environment, and both series offer robust features. The switches support MAC address filtering, IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, and access control lists (ACLs), ensuring that only authorized users and devices can access the network. Additionally, advanced security protocols help protect against common network threats.

The Allied Telesis X610 and X510 also support Energy Efficient Ethernet (EEE), contributing to reduced power consumption and aligning with green IT initiatives. This is complemented by fan-less designs for the X510 series switches, which offer silent operation, making them suitable for deployment in office environments.

In summary, the Allied Telesis X610 and X510 series switches stand out for their performance, versatility, and security features. They are designed to meet the needs of modern enterprises seeking reliable and scalable networking solutions. Whether used for core switching or as edge devices, these products offer a blend of advanced technology to support a range of networking applications efficiently.