Overview

1.1.4SmartTrunk

SmartTrunk, also referred to as SmartTrunking, is Cabletron Systems’ terminology for load balancing or load sharing. SmartTrunk technology provides an easy-to-implement mechanism to group, or aggregate, multiple links of any technology together to scale the backbone bandwidth beyond the limitations of a single link. All links are user-configurable so administrators can scale the backbone bandwidth by adding SmartTrunk links. The benefits of SmartTrunking include the following:

All purchased bandwidth is used.

Distributed, resilient links increase reliability and performance.

Multiple technologies are supported within a single trunk for maximum flexibility.

NOTE

For information on SmartTrunk configuration, refer to the Cabletron Systems SmartTrunk User’s Guide.

1.1.5Remote Monitoring (RMON)

The SmartSwitch modules support all nine Ethernet RMON groups. The Statistics, Alarms, Events and History groups are enabled on all ports by default.

Cabletron Systems RMON Actions is a vendor-specific extension of RMON and provides the ability to set an “Action” on any SNMP MIB variable. The Action can be triggered by setting an RMON Event and/or Alarm. An example of an Action would be to turn off a MIB-2 interface if a broadcast threshold is crossed.

1.1.6Broadcast Suppression

Broadcast Suppression enables a user to set a desired limit of receive broadcast frames per port/per second to be forwarded out the other ports on the module up to the set limit. Any broadcast frames above this specified limit are dropped. In the event that broadcast frames are being suppressed, multicast and unicast frames continue to be switched.

1.1.7Port/VLAN Redirect Functions

The port redirect function, also referred to as “Port Mirroring,” is a troubleshooting tool used to map traffic from a single source port to a single destination port within the device. This feature allows frames, including those with errors, to be copied and sent to an analyzer or RMON probe.

1-4Introduction

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Cabletron Systems 6H259-17 manual SmartTrunk, Remote Monitoring Rmon, Broadcast Suppression, Port/VLAN Redirect Functions

6H259-17, 6H258-17 specifications

Cabletron Systems, a pioneer in computer networking and telecommunications, has consistently delivered innovative solutions tailored to meet the evolving demands of network infrastructure. Among its notable offerings are the models 6H258-17 and 6H259-17, which showcase advanced technological features designed to optimize network performance, reliability, and scalability.

The 6H258-17 stands out as a high-performance network switch, boasting 24 Ethernet ports, facilitating efficient data transfer and connectivity among multiple devices. Its architecture supports both 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX Ethernet standards, providing flexibility in deploying a variety of network configurations. The switch also employs innovative packet-switching technology, ensuring low-latency communication and enhanced throughput, which is critical for bandwidth-intensive applications.

On the other hand, the 6H259-17 acts as a versatile router and works seamlessly with the 6H258-17 switch, creating a cohesive networking solution. This model is equipped with a robust routing protocol suite, including RIP and OSPF, to facilitate intelligent data routing across networks. Its ability to accommodate various WAN interfaces further enhances its adaptability in different networking environments, making it suitable for both small businesses and larger enterprise setups.

One of the key characteristics of both models is their modular design, which allows for easy upgrades and expansions as the networking requirements grow. Users can invest in additional modules or line cards, enabling them to scale their systems without the need for complete replacements. This feature not only extends the lifespan of the equipment but also aligns with cost-effective budgeting strategies.

In terms of security, Cabletron Systems has integrated sophisticated features into both products to safeguard data integrity and prevent unauthorized access. The ability to implement VLANs and access control lists ensures that only authorized users can access sensitive information. This focus on security is paramount in today’s landscape, where data breaches pose significant risks to organizations of all sizes.

Additionally, both the 6H258-17 and 6H259-17 are designed for easy management and monitoring. With a user-friendly interface and support for SNMP, network administrators can efficiently oversee network activities, troubleshoot issues, and optimize performance.

In conclusion, the Cabletron Systems 6H258-17 and 6H259-17 represent powerful networking solutions that combine performance, scalability, security, and ease of management. Their advanced technologies make them a valuable choice for organizations looking to enhance their network infrastructure while ensuring future growth and adaptability.