Appendix B About Gigabit Ethernet

This appendix provides some background information about Ethernet/Fast Ethernet/Gigabit Ethernet switching technology.

Gigabit Ethernet Technology

Gigabit Ethernet is an extension of IEEE 802.3 Ethernet. It utilizes the same packet structure, format, and support for CSMA/CD protocol, full duplex, flow control, and management objects, but with a tenfold increase in theoretical throughput over 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet and a hundredfold increase over 10 Mbps Ethernet. Since it is compatible with all 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps Ethernet environments, Gigabit Ethernet provides a straightforward upgrade without wasting a company’s existing investment in hardware, software, and trained personnel.

The increased speed and extra bandwidth offered by Gigabit Ethernet is essential to coping with the network bottlenecks that frequently develop as computers and their busses get faster and more users use applications that generate more traffic. Upgrading key components, such as your backbone and servers, to Gigabit Ethernet can greatly improve network response times—as well as significantly speed up the traffic between your subnets.

Gigabit Ethernet enables fast optical fiber connections to support video conferencing, complex imaging, and similar data-intensive applications. Likewise, since data transfers occur 10 times faster than Fast Ethernet, servers outfitted with Gigabit Ethernet NICs are able to perform 10 times the number of operations in the same amount of time.

In addition, the phenomenal bandwidth delivered by Gigabit Ethernet is the most cost-effective method to take advantage of rapidly improving switching and routing internetworking technologies. And with advances in silicon technology and digital signal processing that enable Gigabit Ethernet to operate over unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cabling, outfitting your network with a powerful 1000 Mbps-capable backbone/server connection creates a flexible foundation for the next generation of network technology products.

Fast Ethernet Technology

The growing importance of LANs and the increasing complexity of desktop computing applications are fueling the need for high-performance networks. A number of high-speed LAN technologies have been proposed to provide greater bandwidth and improve client/server response times. Among them, 100BaseT (Fast Ethernet) provides a non-disruptive, smooth evolution from the current 10BaseT technology.

100 Mbps Fast Ethernet is a standard specified by the IEEE 802.3 LAN committee. It is an extension of the 10 Mbps Ethernet standard with the ability to transmit and receive data at 100 Mbps, while maintaining the CSMA/CD Ethernet protocol. Since the 100 Mbps Fast Ethernet is compatible with all other 10 Mbps Ethernet environments, it provides a straightforward upgrade and takes advantage of the existing investment in hardware, software, and personnel training.

Switching Technology

Another approach to pushing beyond the limits of Ethernet technology is the development of switching technology. A switch bridges Ethernet packets at the MAC address level of the Ethernet protocol transmitting among connected Ethernet or Fast Ethernet LAN segments.

Switching is a cost-effective way of increasing the total network capacity available to users on a local area network. A switch increases capacity and decreases network loading by dividing a local area network into different segments that don’t compete with each other for network transmission capacity.

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Asante Technologies GX5-424W Appendix B About Gigabit Ethernet, Gigabit Ethernet Technology, Fast Ethernet Technology
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GX5-424W specifications

Asante Technologies is known for providing high-performance networking solutions tailored for today’s demanding applications. Among their offerings, the GX5 series includes the GX5-424W and GX5-2400W models, both designed to enhance network efficiency and reliability in various environments.

The GX5-424W model is a high-capacity switch that is equipped with robust features aimed at ensuring seamless connectivity across extensive networks. It boasts 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports plus 4 10-Gigabit SFP+ uplink ports, making it ideal for businesses looking to expand their network without sacrificing speed. Its Layer 2 and Layer 3 switching capabilities allow for advanced routing and traffic management, making it suitable for both small and medium-sized enterprises. The device integrates Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality, enabling it to power compatible devices such as IP cameras and VoIP phones directly through the Ethernet cable, therefore simplifying installations and reducing cabling needs.

On the other hand, the GX5-2400W is a more powerful solution, featuring 48 10/100/1000 Mbps ports and 4 10-Gigabit SFP+ uplinks. It primarily targets larger organizations that require a robust infrastructure to handle a greater number of simultaneous connections. It is designed for environments with high bandwidth demands, such as data centers and large corporate networks. The GX5-2400W also incorporates advanced Layer 3 features, allowing for static routing and efficient inter-VLAN routing, thereby enhancing overall network performance.

Both models emphasize low latency and high throughput, thanks to Asante's cutting-edge switching technologies. They are built with a comprehensive suite of management features, including SNMP, RMON, and a web-based GUI for easy configuration and monitoring. Security is also paramount; these switches come with VLAN support, access control lists, and port security to safeguard network integrity.

Additionally, their efficient energy management design contributes to lower operational costs, making them a sustainable choice for organizations aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. With Asante's GX5-424W and GX5-2400W, users can expect high reliability, performance, and scalability to meet the demands of a connected future. Whether it’s for a small office or a large enterprise, these switches offer flexibility and power for diverse networking needs.
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