62CHAPTER 3: SETTING UP FOR MANAGEMENT

Connecting the Workstation to the Switch

1Connect the workstation to the console port using the console cable as shown in Figure 26.

Figure 26 Connecting a Workstation to the Switch via the Console Port

Workstation

(with terminal emulation

software installed)

Console Cable

Switch

Console Port

Connection

To connect the cable:

aAttach the RJ-45 connector on the cable to the switch’s console port.

bAttach the other end of the cable to the workstation and tighten the retaining screws on the cable to prevent it from loosening.

2Open your terminal emulation software and configure the COM port settings to which you have connected the cable. Make sure that the settings match the switch’s default settings, which are:

19,200 baud (bits per second)

8 data bits

no parity

1 stop bit

no hardware flow control

Refer to the terminal emulation software’s documentation for more information about these settings.

3Power up the switch. The switch performs its Power on Self Test (POST).

Setting Up the Switch with IP Information

To manually set up the switch with IP information using the command line interface, perform the following steps.

1The command line interface login sequence begins as soon as the switch detects a connection to its console port. If the login prompt does not begin immediately, press Return a few times until it starts.

2At the Username prompt, enter admin as your user name and press Return. At the password prompt press Return again. Either <500G-EI>

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3Com 5500G-EI, 5500-EI manual Connecting the Workstation to the Switch, Setting Up the Switch with IP Information

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.