NETWORKING TERMINOLOGY

A Network is a collection of workstations (for example, IBM-compatible PCs) and other equipment (for example, printers), connected for the purpose of exchanging information or sharing resources. Networks vary in size, some are within a single room, others span continents.

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a network, usually in an office, that spans no more than a single site.

Ethernet is a type of LAN, referring to the technology used to pass information around the network.

Fast Ethernet is a type of LAN that runs ten times faster than standard Ethernet.

10BASE-Tis the name given to the Ethernet protocol that runs over Twisted Pair (TP) cable at 10Mbps.

100BASE-TXis the name given to the Fast Ethernet protocol that runs over Twisted Pair (TP) cable at 100Mbps. The OfficeConnect hub uses RJ-45 type connectors for connecting your TP network

A Network Loop occurs when two pieces of network equipment are connected by more than one path. Your hub detects this and partitions (isolates) one of its ports to break the loop.

A segment is the length of cable connected to a port, whether this cable is 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, or another type.

Packets are the units of information your workstations and other equipment send to each other over the network.

Collisions are a part of normal Fast Ethernet operation and occur if two or more devices (pieces of network equipment) attempt to transmit at the same time. A sudden sustained increase in the number of collisions can indicate a problem with a device, particularly if it is not accompanied by a general increase in traffic.

17

Page 17
Image 17
3Com 3C16723A, 3C16721A, 3C16722A manual Networking Terminology

3C16723A, 3C16721A, 3C16722A specifications

The 3Com 3C16722A, 3C16721A, and 3C16723A are part of a series of networking devices designed to enhance network performance, reliability, and management capabilities in various environments. These devices are primarily used in enterprise networks, catering to different sizes and types of network infrastructures.

The 3C16722A is a high-performance Ethernet switch featuring 24 ports that support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds. Its main features include auto-MDI/MDI-X capabilities, which automatically detect connections and configure the ports accordingly, facilitating seamless integration. This switch supports VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) functionality, enabling network segmentation and improved security. With robust forwarding capabilities, the 3C16722A ensures efficient data transfer within a network, making it ideal for organizations that require high bandwidth for data-intensive applications.

The 3C16721A, while similar to the 3C16722A, is designed for users who require fewer ports but still demand high-speed connectivity. Offering 16 ports, the 3C16721A also operates at 10/100/1000 Mbps and incorporates advanced features such as Quality of Service (QoS) settings. QoS prioritizes critical network traffic, ensuring that voice and video data are transmitted with minimal latency, which is essential for businesses that depend on real-time communication tools.

Lastly, the 3C16723A combines the functionalities of both its counterparts but extends the port offerings to cater to larger networks. Featuring 48 ports, this switch can support multiple devices simultaneously, providing extensive connectivity options. Additionally, it offers stacking support, allowing multiple switches to operate as a single unit. This capability enables network administrators to manage larger systems more efficiently and simplifies the overall network architecture.

Each of these devices utilizes advanced technologies such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) for loop prevention and link aggregation to enhance throughput by combining multiple connections. Security features, including port security and access control lists, are also integrated to protect sensitive data and maintain network integrity. Overall, the 3Com 3C16722A, 3C16721A, and 3C16723A are versatile networking solutions that deliver performance, scalability, and security for modern enterprise networks.