58CHAPTER 3: SETTING UP FOR MANAGEMENT

Setting Up Your Switch

This section provides an overview how to set up your switch and manage that switch when it is in its default state. Figure 25 summarizes the setup process. Detailed steps are provided in the sections that follow. In brief, you need to:

■Manually configure the IP information for your switch or view the automatically configured IP information.

■Prepare for your chosen method of management

Figure 25 Initial Switch Setup and Management Process

Plug and Play Setup

Yes

Power Up the Switch.

IP Information is automatically configured via

DHCP

See page 59

Do you want to manually

 

 

No

configure the IP information?

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Initial IP Information Setup

How do you want to connect to the Switch?

Connect to the con-

 

 

Connect to a front panel port

sole port and use the

 

 

and use the Web Interface or

Command Line Inter-

 

 

 

 

 

Command Line

 

 

 

face.

 

 

 

 

 

Interface.

 

 

See page 61

 

 

 

 

 

See page 61

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How do you want to view the automatically

configured IP information?

Use 3Com Network

 

Connect to the console

Director (3ND).

 

port and use the

See page 67

 

Command Line

 

 

Interface.

 

 

See page 67

 

 

 

 

 

How do you want to manage your Switch? See page 56

Feature Management

Command Line Interface

SNMP

Web Interface

See page 72

 

 

 

Connect using the

Connect over the

 

Connect over the

 

 

 

console port.

network using Telnet.

network.

 

See page 69

See page 69

 

See page 72

Page 57 Page 59
Page 58
Image 58
3Com 5500G-EI, 5500-EI manual Setting Up Your Switch, Initial Switch Setup and Management Process
Page 57 Page 59

5500G-EI, 5500-EI specifications

The 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI series are advanced Ethernet switches designed for enterprise networks, catering to the growing demand for high-performance, secure, and scalable networking solutions. These switches are particularly suited for large organizations that require robust management capabilities and high-density connectivity.

One of the key features of the 5500-EI and 5500G-EI models is their modular architecture, which allows businesses to tailor the switch configuration to their specific needs. With options for various interface modules, including Gigabit Ethernet and PoE (Power over Ethernet), these switches can support diverse networking requirements and facilitate the gradual expansion of the network infrastructure.

The Series offers advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities. Layer 2 features include VLAN tagging, trunking, and Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) to ensure efficient traffic management and network segmentation. On the Layer 3 front, the switches support static routing, RIP, and OSPF, enabling dynamic routing protocols for better traffic flow and load balancing. These features together enhance the performance and reliability of enterprise applications.

Security is another vital aspect of the 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI series. The switches come equipped with robust security features to protect sensitive data and maintain compliance. These include MAC address filtering, access control lists (ACLs), and support for 802.1X authentication. Additionally, the devices support secure management protocols like SNMP v3, which enhances the security of management communications.

The 5500G-EI model stands out with its high-density port offerings, supporting up to 48 ports in a single switch, with an option for stacking to create a unified management platform across multiple switches. This flexibility allows organizations to leverage their existing infrastructure while scaling seamlessly in response to growing demands.

Another notable characteristic is the built-in IPv6 support, which positions the 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI models favorably for future-proofing enterprise networks as the transition to IPv6 continues. This feature ensures that organizations can maintain connectivity as devices increasingly adopt the newer protocol.

In conclusion, the 3Com 5500-EI and 5500G-EI series offer a comprehensive suite of features and technologies designed for high-performance enterprise networking. With modularity, robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities, enhanced security measures, and a focus on scalability, these switches provide a solid foundation for modern corporate networks, accommodating future growth and technological advancements.
Top Page Image Contents