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

1 INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the world of networking with 3Com® .

In the modern business environment, communication and sharing information is crucial. Computer networks have proved to be one of the fastest modes of communication but until now only large businesses could afford the networking advantage. The OfficeConnect® product range from 3Com changed this, bringing networks to the small office.

The OfficeConnect Hub 8/TPM is ideal for creating a small network. It is compact and attractively designed for desktop use, and is part of the OfficeConnect range which neatly stack together with clips, providing a host of facilities, for example print sharing and a network fax. For information on these products, see “3Com provides easy access to technical support information through a variety of services. This appendix describes these services.” on page C-1.

A single OfficeConnect hub allows you to create a small network with up to eight workstations, as shown in Figure 1-1.

Figure 1-1 Small Network Featuring OfficeConnect Hub And Optional Print Server

If you need to connect more workstations, simply connect and clip another OfficeConnect hub to form

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3Com 3C16710 manual Introduction, Bk GETSTART.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.