CheetahSwitch Workgroup-4508

Virtual LANs

Switches do not inherently support broadcast domains, which can lead to broadcast storms in large networks that handle a lot of IPX or NetBeui traffic. In conventional networks with routers, broadcast traffic is split up into separate domains to confine broadcast traffic to the originating group and provide a much cleaner network environment. By supporting VLANs, this switch allows you to create segregated broadcast domains. However, note that if you need to support intra-VLAN communications, you must use a router or Layer 3 switch.

An IEEE 802.1Q VLAN is a group of ports that can be located anywhere in the network, but communicate as though they belong to the same physical segment. VLANs help to simplify network management by allowing you to move devices to a new VLAN without having to change any physical connections. VLANs can be easily organized to reflect departmental groups (such as Marketing or R&D), usage groups (such as e-mail), or multicast groups (used for multimedia applications such as video conferencing).

VLANs provide greater network efficiency by reducing broadcast traffic, but also allow you to make network changes without having to update IP addresses or IP subnets. VLANs inherently provide a high level of network security, since traffic must pass through a Layer 3 switch or a router to reach a different VLAN.

This switch supports the following VLAN features:

•Up to 16 VLANs based on the IEEE 802.1Q standard

•Distributed VLAN learning across multiple switches using explicit or implicit tagging

•Port overlapping, allowing a port to participate in multiple VLANs

•End stations can belong to multiple VLANs

•Passing traffic between VLAN-aware and VLAN-unaware devices

•Two-level priority queue

Assigning Ports to VLANs

Before enabling VLANs for the switch, you must first assign each port to the VLAN group(s) it will participate in. (By default all ports are assigned to VLAN 1 as untagged ports.) Add a port as a tagged port (that is, a port attached to a VLAN- aware device) if you want it to carry traffic for one or more VLANs and the device at the other end of the link also supports VLANs. Then assign the port at the other end of the link to the same VLAN(s). However, if you want a port on this switch to participate in one or more VLANs, but the device at the other end of the link does not support VLANs, then you must add this port as an untagged port (that is, a port attached to a VLAN-unaware device).

Port-based VLANs are tied to specific ports. The switch’s forwarding decision is based on the destination MAC address and its associated port. Therefore, to make valid forwarding and flooding decisions, the switch learns the relationship of the MAC address to its related port—and thus to the VLAN—at run-time.

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Accton Technology CheetahSwitch Workgroup, 4508 manual Virtual LANs, Assigning Ports to VLANs
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CheetahSwitch Workgroup, 4508 specifications

Accton Technology is a pioneering force in networking solutions, and one of its standout products is the Accton Technology 4508, commonly referred to as the CheetahSwitch Workgroup. This switch is designed to cater to the evolving demands of workgroup networking, providing an innovative blend of performance, scalability, and manageability.

The CheetahSwitch 4508 is engineered to support high-speed data transfer, making it an ideal solution for small to medium-sized enterprises. It features a robust architecture that can handle a considerable amount of network traffic, ensuring seamless communication within workgroups and across departments. With its ability to connect up to eight devices, the switch guarantees that workgroups can stay connected, productive, and efficient.

One of the main features of the CheetahSwitch 4508 is its impressive bandwidth capacity. It supports multiple Ethernet standards, including Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, allowing for flexible deployment options. This scalability is crucial in environments where network demands can rapidly change. The switch is designed with multiple ports, offering numerous connectivity options for various devices.

Another significant characteristic of the CheetahSwitch 4508 is its advanced management capabilities. It comes equipped with user-friendly configuration tools that simplify the management process, making it easy for IT administrators to set up and monitor network performance. This feature not only enhances operational efficiency but also helps in identifying potential issues before they escalate, thereby minimizing downtime.

In terms of security, the CheetahSwitch prioritizes user protection through features like VLAN support and port security, allowing organizations to segment their networks and manage traffic flow securely. This is essential in today’s cybersecurity landscape, where threats are ever-evolving, and data protection is non-negotiable.

Moreover, energy efficiency is a hallmark of the CheetahSwitch 4508. It uses technology that optimizes power consumption, contributing to lower operating costs while being environmentally friendly. This aligns with the growing trend toward sustainable business practices.

Overall, the Accton Technology 4508 CheetahSwitch Workgroup is a reliable networking solution that delivers the performance, scalability, and management features required for today's dynamic business environment. With its commitment to high-speed connectivity and robust security measures, it stands out as an exemplary choice for organizations looking to enhance their network infrastructure.
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