Installing the switch, Manually configuring a switch

User account	Description and tasks performed	Password

Operator	The operator manages all functions of the switch. The operator can
	reset ports or the entire switch.
	By default, the operator account is disabled and has no password.

Administrator	The super user administrator has complete access to all menus,	admin
	information, and configuration commands on the switch, including the
	ability to change both the user and administrator passwords.

Manually configuring a switch

The switch is configured manually using a command line interface, a browser-based interface, or an SNMP interface. See the HP GbE2c Ethernet Blade Switch for c-Class BladeSystem Command Reference Guide for more information on using these management interfaces to configure the switch.

After a switch is configured, back up the configuration as a text file to a TFTP server. The backup configuration file is then downloaded from the TFTP server to restore the switch back to the original configuration. This restoration is necessary if one of these conditions apply:

•The switch configuration becomes corrupted during operation.

•The switch must be replaced because of a hardware failure.

Configuring multiple switches

Configure multiple switches by using scripted CLI commands through Telnet or by downloading a configuration file using a TFTP server.

Using scripted CLI commands through Telnet

The CLI, provided with the switch, executes customized configuration scripts on multiple switches. A configuration script is tailored to one of the multiple switches, and then that configuration can be deployed to other switches from a central deployment server.

Using a configuration file

If planning for the base configuration of multiple switches in a network to be the same, manually configure one switch, upload the configuration to a TFTP server, and use that configuration as a base configuration template file.

Switch IP addresses are acquired by default using BOOTP, therefore, each switch has a unique IP address. Each switch is remotely accessed from a central deployment server and an individual switch configuration is downloaded to meet specific network requirements. See the HP GbE2c Ethernet Blade Switch for c-Class BladeSystem Command Reference Guide for additional information on using a TFTP server to upload and download configuration files.

Installing the switch

Preparing for installation

IMPORTANT: Before installing the switch, make a record of the MAC address (printed on the MAC address label attached to the switch). This address is needed when configuring the switch.

Installing the switch 18

GbE2c specifications

The HP GbE2c is a high-performance Ethernet Switch designed to meet the increasing demands of data center environments. As a critical component in Hewlett-Packard's networking lineup, the GbE2c provides a seamless blend of speed, reliability, and advanced networking capabilities, making it an essential tool for enterprises aiming to enhance their network infrastructure.

One of the standout features of the HP GbE2c is its support for Gigabit Ethernet, which allows for high-speed data transmission and reduced latency. This switch is designed to support the growing bandwidth needs of modern applications, ensuring that data is transmitted quickly and efficiently across the network. The GbE2c is particularly beneficial for organizations implementing virtualization technologies, as its Gigabit interfaces help in optimizing data flow between virtual machines.

The GbE2c also incorporates advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities. This ensures that it can handle both basic and more complex networking tasks, such as routing traffic between different VLANs and enabling Internet Protocol (IP) addressing. The switch supports various protocols, enabling seamless integration into a wide range of network environments.

Additionally, the HP GbE2c is equipped with a robust management system that allows network administrators to easily configure and monitor network settings. With its user-friendly interface, administrators can gain insights into traffic patterns, performance metrics, and potential issues, helping to maintain optimal network performance.

Power efficiency is another key characteristic of the HP GbE2c. The switch is designed to minimize power consumption without sacrificing performance, making it a more sustainable choice for data centers aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. This energy-efficient design is crucial for enterprises looking to lower operational costs while maintaining a high level of service.

The HP GbE2c also boasts high availability features, including redundant power supplies and failover options, ensuring that the network remains operational even in the event of a component failure. This reliability is critical for businesses that require uninterrupted network access for their daily operations.

In summary, the HP GbE2c Ethernet Switch combines speed, versatility, and efficiency, making it an ideal choice for businesses seeking to enhance their networking capabilities. Its robust feature set, advanced management options, and focus on energy efficiency position it as a top-tier solution in the competitive networking landscape. Organizations can rely on the GbE2c to deliver high performance and reliability, thus meeting the demands of today's data-intensive environments.