Chapter 11 Avaya P330 Layer 2 Features

Note: You must manually configure uplink and backbone ports (including LAG logical ports) to be "non-edge" ports, using the CLI command set port edge

admin state.

Point-to-point Link ports — This port type applies only to ports interconnecting RSTP compliant switches and is used to define whether the devices are interconnected using shared Ethernet segment or pont-to-point Ethernet link. RSTP convergence is faster when switches are connected using point-to-point links. The default setting for all ports – automatic detection of point-to-point link – is sufficent for most networks.

Spanning Tree Implementation in the P330 Family

RSTP is implemented in P330 family of products so that it is interoperable with the existing implementation of STP. In order to configure the switch to either common Spanning Tree or Rapid Spanning Tree protocol, use the set spantree version command.

After upgrading to software version 4.0, the default is spanning tree version STP. The default after NVRAM INIT remains STP.

The balance of this section lists the conditions and limitations that govern the implementation of Spanning Tree in the P330 line.

RSTP’s fast convergence benefits are lost when interacting with legacy (STP) bridges.

When RSTP detects STP Bridge Protocol Data Units (BPDUs type 1) on a specific port, it will begin to “speak” 802.1d on this port only. Specifically, this means:

802.1d bridges will ignore RSTP BPDUs and drop them.

802.1d bridges will send 802.1d format BPDUs back to the switch.

The switch will change to 802.1d mode for that port only.

The P330 configured to RSTP is therefore able to simultaneously work with other switches implementing either RSTP or STP without specific user intervention.

Spanning Tree configuration is performed on the stack level.

If you do not upgrade all switches in the stack to firmware version 4.0, spanning tree will continue its normal operation. However, configuring Spanning Tree will not be possible until all switches are upgraded to version 4.0.

RSTP is interoperable with P330 Port Redundancy and PBNAC applications. If either RSTP or PBNAC put the port in blocking, its final state will be “blocking”.

STP and Self Loop Discovery (SLD) are incompatible. However, If Spanning Tree is set to rapid-spanning-tree version, there is no need to use the Self-loop- discovery feature ; the RSTP algorithm avoids loops generated by the IBM token ring cabling.

Avaya P333R-LB User’s Guide

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Avaya P333R-LB manual Spanning Tree Implementation in the P330 Family

P333R-LB specifications

The Avaya P333R-LB is a robust and versatile switch that is part of Avaya's portfolio aimed at enterprise networking solutions. This switch is designed to enhance the performance and scalability of network infrastructure while ensuring high availability and reliability.

One of the main features of the P333R-LB is its Layer 3 switching capability, which allows for efficient routing within an organization's network. This capability is particularly beneficial for organizations with multiple VLANs, as it simplifies the routing process and ensures that data packets are transmitted in the most efficient manner possible.

The P333R-LB is equipped with advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features to prioritize traffic based on the type of application being used. This ensures that critical applications, such as VoIP and video conferencing, receive the necessary bandwidth and low latency required for optimal performance. Additionally, it supports both IPv4 and IPv6 protocols, making it adaptable to a variety of networking environments.

Another important feature of the Avaya P333R-LB is its stackable design. This allows multiple switches to be interconnected, creating a single logical unit. This stacking capability not only simplifies management but also increases overall network capacity and redundancy. In case of a hardware failure, the stack can continue operating without interruption, maintaining network integrity and service continuity.

The switch also integrates advanced security features, including support for MAC filtering, access control lists, and port security. These features help to safeguard network resources from unauthorized access and potential threats. Moreover, the P333R-LB supports 802.1X port-based authentication, which adds an additional layer of security during user access to the network.

The Avaya P333R-LB comes with multiple Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for high-speed connectivity to devices such as servers, workstations, and IP phones. This ensures that all devices on the network can communicate effectively, supporting the demands of modern enterprise environments.

For management and monitoring, the P333R-LB offers a user-friendly web interface along with SNMP support, enabling network administrators to easily configure settings and monitor network performance. This simplicity in management is crucial for IT teams that need to ensure optimal network performance while minimizing downtime.

In summary, the Avaya P333R-LB is a feature-rich, scalable, and reliable switch that meets the needs of demanding enterprise networks. With its advanced technologies, QoS support, stackable design, robust security features, and high-speed connectivity options, the P333R-LB is positioned to support a wide range of applications and enhance overall network performance.