Setting Up Your Switch 59

CAUTION: To protect your switch from unauthorized access, you must change all three default passwords as soon as possible, even if you do not intend to actively manage your switch. For more information on the default user names and changing the default passwords, see “Changing the Default Passwords” on page 73.

IP Configuration You can use one of the following methods to provide IP information to your switch. This step is essential if you wish to manage your switch over the network.

Manual IP Configuration

When you configure the IP information, the switch retains that information that you enter until you change it again.

You should use the Manual IP configuration method if:

you do not have a DHCP or BootP server on your network

you want to remove the risk of the IP address ever changing

your DHCP or BootP server does not allow you to allocate static IP addresses. Static IP addresses are necessary to ensure that the switch is always allocated the same IP information.

For most installations, 3Com recommends that you manually configure the switch’s IP information. This makes management simpler and more reliable since it does not depend on a DHCP or BootP server. It also eliminates the risk of the IP address changing.

To manually enter the switch’s IP information, refer to the section entitled “Manually Configuring the IP Information” section on page 61.

Automatic IP Configuration using DHCP

By default, the switch automatically attempts to acquire its IP address from a DHCP server on the network. If you are using this method, make sure your DHCP server assigns the switch a static IP address so that you know what that IP address will be at all times.

If you do not know what the IP address is and it will be difficult to manage your switch. Most DHCP servers allow static IP address configurations. Refer to your DHCP server documentation for instructions.

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3Com 5500-EI, 5500G-EI manual Manual IP Configuration, Automatic IP Configuration using Dhcp

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.