Chapter 4: Installing the Linux Drivers

Introduction

This chapter discusses the Linux drivers for the Broadcom NetXtreme II network adapters and describes how to install them. For a description of the drivers, see Table 2.

Table 2. Broadcom NetXtreme II Linux Drivers

Linux Driver

Description

 

 

bnx2

Indicates the Linux drivers for the AT-2872SX

cnic

ExpressCard module. The bnx2 driver is the

 

networking driver and the cnic driver supports

 

additional features required by the bnx2i iSCSI

 

offload driver. The bnx2i iSCSI driver is

 

packaged separately.

 

 

bnx2i

Indicates the Linux driver that enables iSCSI

 

offload on the AT-2872SX ExpressCard

 

module.

 

 

Limitations This section describes the testing limitations of the following Linux drivers:

ˆ“bnx2 Driver” on page 50

ˆ“bnx2i Driver” on page 51

bnx2 Driver

The current version of the driver has been tested on 2.4.x kernels (starting from 2.4.24) and all 2.6.x kernels. The driver may not compile on kernels older than 2.4.24.

Testing is concentrated on i386 and x86_64 architectures. Only limited testing has been done on other architectures. Minor changes to some source files and Makefile may be needed on some kernels. Additionally, the Makefile does not compile the cnic driver on kernels older than 2.6.16. iSCSI offload is only supported on 2.6.16 and newer kernels.

Support for the 2.4.21 kernels is provided in Red Hat Enterprise Linux 3.

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Allied Telesis AT-2872SX manual Introduction, Bnx2 Driver

AT-2872SX specifications

The Allied Telesis AT-2872SX is a high-performance, versatile networking switch designed specifically for the demands of modern network environments. With its compact form factor and robust feature set, it serves as an ideal solution for businesses looking to enhance their network infrastructure with reliability and efficiency.

One of the standout features of the AT-2872SX is its support for both Ethernet and Fast Ethernet technology, making it a flexible choice for organizations that require diverse network speeds. This switch is equipped with two 1000BASE-SX Fiber ports, allowing it to provide high-speed connectivity over fiber optics. This is particularly beneficial for applications that demand high bandwidth and low latency, such as video conferencing and large data transfers.

The AT-2872SX comes with a user-friendly interface that simplifies configuration and management. It supports standard Network Management Protocols such as SNMP, enabling remote management and monitoring of the switch. This feature is crucial for IT departments that aim to maintain optimal network performance without the need for constant physical oversight.

Another significant characteristic of the AT-2872SX is its Quality of Service (QoS) capabilities. This technology allows administrators to prioritize network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need without interruption. This is essential in multi-service networks where voice, data, and video traffic coexist.

In terms of security, the AT-2872SX offers multiple features to safeguard network integrity. It supports IEEE 802.1X port-based authentication, ensuring that only authorized devices can connect to the network. Additionally, it features VLAN support which segments traffic and enhances security by isolating sensitive data streams.

The hardware design of the AT-2872SX ensures durability and reliability, making it suitable for deployment in various environmental conditions. Its fanless operation not only provides silent performance but also contributes to reduced energy consumption, aligning with goals for sustainability in network infrastructure.

In conclusion, the Allied Telesis AT-2872SX switch stands out as a leading choice for organizations looking to bolster their network capabilities. Its comprehensive feature set, including high-speed fiber connectivity, robust management options, traffic prioritization, and built-in security measures, make it a valuable asset in any enterprise networking environment. As businesses increasingly rely on efficient and reliable networking solutions, the AT-2872SX remains a strong contender in the market.