How To Interconnect Units 77

As with all Switch 5500 CLI commands, the format for entering a command that is port specific is x/y/z, where x = unit number, y = module number (in the case of the Switch 5500 this will always be 0), z = port number.

3Connect the Fabric-enabled ‘up’ port on one Switch 5500 unit to the Fabric-enabled ‘down’ port on another Switch 5500 unit using the appropriate connection method for your switch as detailed in Table 23.

4To create a fully resilient Fabric: enable the spare Fabric ports on the top-most and bottom-most units in the Fabric as described in the previous steps. Then insert a cable into these two Fabric ports to create a link between the top-most and bottom-most units in the Fabric, as shown in Figure 31 on page 79.

This ensures that in the event of a unit failure within the Fabric, the Fabric will continue working and no “Fabric split” will occur.

Save all configuration settings. From the User View, enter the save command to save the configuration to your switch.

Stacking Switch 5500G-EI Units

1Ensure that the switch units that you wish to interconnect have the latest software agent installed. You can use the display version command to check this.

2Connect the stacking cable ‘up’ port on one Switch 5500G-EI unit to the stacking cable ‘down’ port on another Switch 5500G-EI unit using a stacking cable (3C17262) or a resilient stacking cable (3C17263).

Note the color code on the stacking cable connectors should match the color code on the stacking ports, that is, blue for the ‘up’ port that is connecting to the physically higher unit, and yellow for the ‘down’ port that is connecting to the physically lower unit.

3To create a fully resilient Fabric: using the ‘up’ stacking cable port on the top-most and the ‘down’ stacking cable port on the bottom-most units insert a stacking cable to create a link between the top-most and bottom-most units in the Fabric, as shown in Figure 31 on page 79.

This ensures that in the event of a unit failure within the Fabric, the Fabric will continue working and no “Fabric split” will occur.

4Save all configuration settings. From the User View, enter the save command to save the configuration to your switch.

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3Com 5500-EI manual Stacking Switch 5500G-EI Units

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.