IP ADDRESSING

The Internet Protocol Suite

The Internet protocol suite consists of a well-defined set of communications protocols and several standard application protocols. Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) is probably the most widely known and is a combination of two of the protocols (IP and TCP) working together. TCP/IP is an internationally adopted and supported networking standard that provides connectivity between equipment from many vendors over a wide variety of networking technologies.

IP Addresses and Subnet Masks

Each device on your network must have a unique IP address to operate correctly. An IP address identifies the address of the device to which data is being sent and the address of the destination network. IP addresses have the format n.n.n.x where n is a decimal number between 0 and 255 and x is a number between 1 and 254 inclusive.

However, an IP Address alone is not enough to make your device operate. In addition to the IP address, you need to set a subnet mask. All networks are divided into smaller sub-networks and a subnet mask is a number that enables a device to identify the sub-network to which it is connected.

For your network to work correctly, all devices on the network must have:

The same sub-network address.

The same subnet mask.

The only value that will be different is the specific host device number. This value must always be unique.

An example IP address is ‘192.168.100.8’. However, the size of the network determines the structure of this IP Address. In using the Gateway, you will probably only encounter two types of IP Address and subnet mask structures.

Type One

In a small network, the IP address of ‘192.168.100.8’ is split into two parts:

Part one (‘192.168.100’) identifies the network on which the device resides.

Part two (‘.8’) identifies the device within the network.

This type of IP Address operates on a subnet mask of ‘255.255.255.0’.

See Table 3 for an example about how a network with three PCs and a Cable/DSL Secure Gateway might be configured.

Table 3 IP Addressing and Subnet Masking in a Small Network

Device

IP Address

Subnet Mask

 

 

 

PC 1

192.168.100.8

255.255.255.0

 

 

 

PC 2

192.168.100.33

255.255.255.0

 

 

 

PC 3

192.168.100.188

255.255.255.0

 

 

 

Cable/DSL

192.168.100.72

255.255.255.0

Secure Gateway

 

 

 

 

 

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3Com 3CR856-95 manual IP Addressing, Internet Protocol Suite, IP Addresses and Subnet Masks, Type One

3CR856-95 specifications

The 3Com 3CR856-95 is a versatile networking device designed to meet the demands of small to medium-sized businesses. As a part of the 3Com OfficeConnect series, the 3CR856-95 combines switching, routing, and security features into a compact, integrated solution that enhances network performance and reliability.

One of the main features of the 3CR856-95 is its ability to support multiple network configurations. It operates as a router and switch simultaneously, offering six Ethernet ports for wired connections, while also integrating wireless capabilities. This allows businesses to connect various devices seamlessly, including computers, printers, and smartphones, providing flexibility and convenience in a modern office environment.

The device incorporates advanced technologies such as Quality of Service (QoS) which prioritizes network traffic to ensure that bandwidth-intensive applications like video conferencing and VoIP run smoothly. This feature is essential for maintaining productivity and communication efficiency in busy office settings. Additionally, the 3CR856-95 supports both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols, making it a future-proof solution as businesses transition to the newer Internet Protocol standard.

Security is a critical consideration for any networking equipment, and the 3CR856-95 addresses this with robust measures. It includes a built-in firewall that protects the network from external threats, along with support for Virtual Private Networks (VPN), allowing secure remote access for employees working from off-site locations. Furthermore, the device supports WPA2 encryption for wireless connections, safeguarding sensitive data transmitted over the network.

Another important characteristic of the 3CR856-95 is its user-friendly interface, which simplifies the setup and management of the network. The device features a web-based management console that allows network administrators to easily configure settings, monitor traffic, and troubleshoot issues from any internet-connected device. This accessibility saves time and reduces the complexity often associated with network management.

In summary, the 3Com 3CR856-95 is a robust and feature-rich networking solution tailored for small to medium-sized businesses. With its combination of switching, routing, and security features, it provides a reliable platform for facilitating seamless communication and connectivity. Its support for advanced technologies and user-friendly management interface makes it a smart choice for organizations looking to enhance their network infrastructure.