Using the NetXtreme II Monolithic Driver

AT-2872SX ExpressCard Fast Ethernet Fiber Module Installation and User’s Guide

The NetXtreme II, based on its advanced functionalities, uses a software architecture that includes a Virtual Bus Device (VBD) to extend functionalities beyond basic network connectivity. Microsoft, however, does not currently support this architecture when loading an operating system through its Windows Deployment Services (WDS), which was previously known as Remote Installation Services (RIS), or for the deployment agent used in the Automated Deployment Services (ADS). Therefore, a separate driver was created to accommodate these Microsoft deficiencies. This driver is known as the NetXtreme II monolithic driver, but it is sometimes referred to as the RIS driver.

The NetXtreme II monolithic driver was developed to work only for the text mode portion of a WDS legacy installation and to establish connectivity with a deployment agent for ADS. It is not intended to be used as a driver loaded in the running state of an operating system. The exception to this would be when used for the Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE).

For WDS, this driver is used similarly to any other network adapter driver for supporting network connectivity after the PXE boot to the WDS server. When placed in the I386 or AMD64 directory (depending on the version of the operating system being deployed), the monolithic driver is called to establish that there is driver support for the NetXtreme II adapter included in the WDS legacy image.

For ADS, the driver is placed in the PreSystem directory on the server running ADS to establish connectivity with the deployment agent on remote systems with NetXtreme II adapters when booting from PXE.

While Windows PE 2005 natively supports the VBD architecture, it was found that using the “minint” switch in the startnet.cmd file does not. The minint switch performs a limited scan of the system bus to identify network devices only and, therefore, does not support the VBD architecture. Since only network connectivity is required in Windows PE, the only supported driver is the monolithic driver for the NetXtreme II adapter in this environment as well. Place the b06nd.inf file in the INF directory within the Windows PE image, and place the appropriate driver file (b06nd51a.sys for x64-based builds or b06nd51.sys for x86-based builds) in the driver's directory. If Windows PE is deployed as a flat image from a RIS or WDS server, you must also place both the b06nd.inf and the appropriate driver file in the I386 or AMD64 directory containing the image. If the RIS or WDS server is running Windows 2000 Server and deploying an x86 WinPE image, you may need to include the Windows 2000 monolithic driver file (b06nd50x.sys) in the I386 directory.

AT-2872SX specifications

The Allied Telesis AT-2872SX is a high-performance, versatile networking switch designed specifically for the demands of modern network environments. With its compact form factor and robust feature set, it serves as an ideal solution for businesses looking to enhance their network infrastructure with reliability and efficiency.

One of the standout features of the AT-2872SX is its support for both Ethernet and Fast Ethernet technology, making it a flexible choice for organizations that require diverse network speeds. This switch is equipped with two 1000BASE-SX Fiber ports, allowing it to provide high-speed connectivity over fiber optics. This is particularly beneficial for applications that demand high bandwidth and low latency, such as video conferencing and large data transfers.

The AT-2872SX comes with a user-friendly interface that simplifies configuration and management. It supports standard Network Management Protocols such as SNMP, enabling remote management and monitoring of the switch. This feature is crucial for IT departments that aim to maintain optimal network performance without the need for constant physical oversight.

Another significant characteristic of the AT-2872SX is its Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities. This technology allows administrators to prioritize network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need without interruption. This is essential in multi-service networks where voice, data, and video traffic coexist.

In terms of security, the AT-2872SX offers multiple features to safeguard network integrity. It supports IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, ensuring that only authorized devices can connect to the network. Additionally, it features VLAN support which segments traffic and enhances security by isolating sensitive data streams.

The hardware design of the AT-2872SX ensures durability and reliability, making it suitable for deployment in various environmental conditions. Its fanless operation not only provides silent performance but also contributes to reduced energy consumption, aligning with goals for sustainability in network infrastructure.

In conclusion, the Allied Telesis AT-2872SX switch stands out as a leading choice for organizations looking to bolster their network capabilities. Its comprehensive feature set, including high-speed fiber connectivity, robust management options, traffic prioritization, and built-in security measures, make it a valuable asset in any enterprise networking environment. As businesses increasingly rely on efficient and reliable networking solutions, the AT-2872SX remains a strong contender in the market.