16710.bk : IPADDRES.FRM Page 1 Tuesday, October 7, 1997 11:38 AM

B IP AND IPX ADDRESSES

IP Addresses

A world-wide network such as the Internet needs a globally-accepted method of identifying individual devices (workstations and network equipment).

Devices on the Internet are assigned unique addresses. The Internet then behaves like a virtual network, using these assigned addresses when sending or receiving packets.

Internet addressing uses a 32-bit (or 4 octet) address field. The bits that make up an Internet address are divided into two parts:

The first part identifies the network on which the device resides.

The second part identifies the device itself.

Devices attached to the same network must have the same number assigned to the network portion of the address, but have different numbers assigned to the device portion of the address.

To ensure the uniqueness of Internet addresses, they are assigned by three organizations, NIC, RIPE and APNIC-DOM. These organizations assign a globally unique network number to each network that wants to connect to the Internet. They only assign the network portion of the address; assigning the device numbers is your responsibility.

If you do not plan to connect to the Internet but need to use IP addresses on your network, you could assign network numbers on your own. However, NIC, RIPE and APNIC-DOM still assign and register unique network numbers to organizations not planning to join the Internet. This means that if you change your mind later, you can simply connect to the Internet without having to obtain new network numbers and reconfigure every device on your network with a new address.

For information on assigning your own IP addresses for a small, contained network, see “Assigning IP Addresses to a Small, Contained Network” on page B-5.

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3Com 3C16710 manual IP and IPX Addresses, IP Addresses, Bk IPADDRES.FRM Page 1 Tuesday, October 7, 1997 1138 AM

3C16710 specifications

The 3Com 3C16710 is a high-performance networking device that stands out in the realm of network communication solutions, delivering reliability and efficiency for a variety of network environments. Positioned as a part of 3Com's robust product line, the 3C16710 is designed to facilitate seamless connectivity, catering to the needs of small to medium-sized enterprises.

One of the standout features of the 3C16710 is its advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities. Built to support multiple Ethernet standards, this switch is equipped with 10/100BASE-TX ports, allowing for flexible integration into existing network infrastructures. With a switching capacity that ensures minimal latency, the 3C16710 is capable of handling substantial data traffic, making it an ideal choice for organizations that demand high-speed connectivity.

The device supports advanced features such as VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) tagging, which effectively enhances network efficiency by segmenting network traffic. This capability helps to optimize bandwidth usage and improve security by isolating sensitive data traffic. Moreover, it supports spanning tree protocol to prevent loops, facilitating a stable and trouble-free network experience.

In terms of management, the 3C16710 provides various options for configuration and monitoring. It supports both SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) for network management as well as a web-based interface for intuitive access, allowing network administrators to easily manage settings and monitor performance. The switch can be configured to deliver quality of service (QoS), ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they require, thereby improving overall network performance.

Another noteworthy characteristic is its robust build quality, which enhances reliability in challenging environments. The 3C16710 is also designed for energy efficiency, complying with green networking standards to minimize power consumption without sacrificing performance.

In summary, the 3Com 3C16710 is a versatile networking switch that combines advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities, VLAN support, and flexible management options. With its reliable performance and energy-efficient design, it meets the demands of modern network architectures, making it a valuable asset for organizations looking to enhance their network infrastructure.