Changing a Password

You should change this password to prevent unauthorised access to the switch. Enter the command:

SET PASSWORD

The switch prompts you for the current password, for the new password, and for confirmation of the new password. The password can contain any printable characters, and must be at least a minimum length, by default six characters.

(To change the default minimum length, see the SET USER command in the Operations chapter, AT-8700XL Series Software Reference.)

Choosing a Password

All users, including managers, should take care in selecting passwords. Tools exist that enable hackers to guess or test many combinations of login names and passwords easily. The User Authentication Facility (UAF) provides some protection against such attacks by allowing the manager to set the number of consecutive login failures allowed and a lockout period when the limit is exceeded.

However, the best protection against password discovery is to select a good password and keep it secret. When choosing a password:

■Do make it six or more characters in length. The UAF enforces a minimum password length, which the manager can change. The default is six characters.

■Do include both alphabetic (a–z) and numeric (0–9) characters.

■Do include both uppercase and lowercase characters. The passwords stored by the switch are case-sensitive, so “bgz4kal” and “Bgz4Kal” are different.

■Do avoid words found in a dictionary, unless combined with other random alphabetic and numeric characters.

■Do not use the login name, or the word “password” as the password.

■Do not use your name, your mother’s name, your spouse’s name, your pet’s name, or the name of your favourite cologne, actor, food or song.

■Do not use your birth date, street number or telephone number.

■Do not write down your password anywhere.

Make sure you remember the new password created as you cannot retrieve a lost password. Recovery of access to the switch is complex.

Once you have logged into the manager account you are able to enter commands from this guide and from the AT-8700XL Series Software Reference.

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Allied Telesis at-8700xl series switch manual Changing a Password, Choosing a Password
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at-8700xl series switch specifications

Allied Telesis AT-8700XL Series Switches are sophisticated networking devices designed to meet the demanding requirements of modern enterprise environments. These managed Ethernet switches are optimized for reliability, performance, and scalability, making them ideal for various applications, from small businesses to large-scale networks.

One of the standout features of the AT-8700XL series is its robust Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities. This versatility allows the switches to perform both basic switching and advanced routing functions, facilitating efficient data traffic management. The series supports a wide range of standard protocols, including VLANs, STP, and RSTP, ensuring smooth and flexible network segmentation.

Another critical characteristic is the series' high-speed connectivity options. With multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, the AT-8700XL series can handle significant data loads, ensuring seamless communication between connected devices. Furthermore, some models within the series offer 10 Gigabit uplink ports, providing the necessary bandwidth to connect to core networks or high-speed servers.

The AT-8700XL series incorporates advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features that enable network administrators to prioritize traffic effectively. This is particularly crucial for applications sensitive to latency, such as VoIP and video conferencing. By ensuring that time-sensitive data packets are transmitted promptly, the switches help maintain optimal performance across the entire network.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) support is yet another advantage of the AT-8700XL series. This feature allows the switches to deliver power to connected devices, such as IP cameras and wireless access points, via the Ethernet cable. This capability simplifies installations by reducing the need for additional power sources, ultimately saving on costs and improving efficiency.

Security is paramount in any network, and the AT-8700XL series does not disappoint. The switches employ robust security protocols, including Access Control Lists (ACLs), MAC address filtering, and DHCP snooping, to protect against unauthorized access and ensure network integrity.

In summary, Allied Telesis AT-8700XL Series Switches offer a comprehensive solution for various networking needs. With their Layer 2 and Layer 3 capabilities, high-speed connectivity, QoS features, PoE support, and security measures, these switches are well-equipped to enhance network efficiency and reliability, making them an excellent choice for organizations looking to future-proof their infrastructure. The AT-8700XL series exemplifies Allied Telesis's commitment to delivering high-quality networking solutions that cater to the evolving demands of businesses today.
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