AT-2716POE Fast Ethernet Fiber & PoE Adapter Installation and User’s Guide

Virtual LANs and the AT-2716POE AT-Mux Configuration Utility

The AT-2716POE adapter is IEEE 802.1Q-compliant and is designed to support virtual LANs (VLANs) and tagged packets. A VLAN is an independent traffic domain where traffic generated by the nodes of a VLAN is restricted only to nodes that are members of the same VLAN. Traffic within a VLAN cannot cross over a VLAN boundary unless there is an interconnection device, such as a router or a Layer 3 switch in the network.

Often, VLANs are used to group nodes with related functions into their own separate, logical LAN segments. These VLAN groupings can be based on similar data needs or security requirements. In addition, VLANs can increase network performance and security by restricting traffic to specific devices or areas of a network.

A tagged VLAN (IEEE 802.1Q) contains one or more network links that carry traffic from more than one VLAN. The VLAN traffic is identified by a header tag, or simply a tag, that follows the source and destination addresses in a packet. The tag contains a VLAN identifier (VID) that uniquely identifies the VLAN to which a packet belongs. The AT- 2716POE adapter is capable of reading the header tag in tagged packets as they arrive on the port, as well as adding tags to packets when transmitting packets.

Before a network adapter card can handle tagged packets, you must configure it by specifying the appropriate VIDs of the VLANs whose tagged packets the adapter is to process.

If the network adapter card handles tagged traffic from more than one VLAN, you can use the AT-2716POE AT-Mux Configuration utility, which you can download from the Allied Telesis website. This utility allows you to assign a VIDs to each adapter port enabling a network adapter card to process tagged traffic from different VLANs.

The following list briefly outlines the behavior of a network adapter card when handling tagged and untagged VLAN traffic:

An adapter where no VIDs have been assigned accepts and transmits only untagged packets. (An untagged packet does not contain a header tag and, consequently, lacks VLAN identification.) The adapter discards any tagged packets that arrive on the port. Both the fiber and copper port communicate on the same network.

An adapter where at least one VID has been assigned accepts only those tagged packets with header tags that match the assigned VIDs

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Allied Telesis manual Virtual LANs and the AT-2716POE AT-Mux Configuration Utility

AT-2716POE specifications

The Allied Telesis AT-2716POE is a versatile, high-performance Layer 2 managed switch designed to meet the needs of modern networking environments. It is particularly suitable for small to medium-sized businesses looking to implement Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, allowing for seamless integration of various devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points.

One of the standout features of the AT-2716POE is its ability to deliver up to 15.4 watts of power per port on all 16 Ethernet ports. This ensures that powered devices can receive both data and power through a single cable, simplifying installation and reducing the need for additional power outlets. This feature is especially beneficial in environments where power sources are limited or difficult to access.

The AT-2716POE is equipped with advanced networking technologies that enhance performance and ease of management. It supports VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) functionality, allowing network administrators to segment traffic for improved security and performance. With support for up to 256 VLANs, the switch is ideal for creating separate networks for different departments or functions, thus optimizing overall network efficiency.

In terms of management capabilities, the AT-2716POE offers a web-based interface, SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), and command-line interface (CLI) for comprehensive management options. This flexibility enables IT professionals to monitor network performance, configure settings, and troubleshoot issues easily. Features such as port mirroring and network monitoring help ensure that performance is optimized and any anomalies can be quickly addressed.

Additionally, the switch incorporates robust security features, including access control lists (ACLs), which help prevent unauthorized access to the network. The AT-2716POE also supports features like Link Aggregation, which enables the bundling of multiple ports for increased bandwidth and redundancy.

The AT-2716POE is designed with energy efficiency in mind. It complies with IEEE 802.3az Energy Efficient Ethernet standards, allowing it to intelligently manage power consumption based on traffic levels. This not only helps reduce operational costs but also aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable technology practices.

Overall, the Allied Telesis AT-2716POE is a reliable and feature-rich switch that provides the necessary tools for effective network management and optimization, making it an excellent choice for organizations looking to modernize their infrastructure while ensuring scalability and efficiency.