Glossary

ISDN — Integrated Services Digital Network. Digital transmission standard defining communication protocols permitting telephone networks to carry data, voice, fax and other streams.

Leased Line — A telecommunications line between two service points leased from a communications carrier for private use, usually incurring a monthly service rate.

LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) — Type of indicator lights on the panel of a device.

Local Area Network (LAN) — A network connecting computers over a relatively small geographic area (usually within a single campus or building).

MAC Layer/Address — Media Access Control layer/address defined by the IEEE 802.3 specification which defines media access including framing and error detection. Part of the OSI reference model Data Link layer.

Metric — An algorithm used by routers to determine the best path for transmitting packets to a remote destination based on considerations such as time, delay, cost, etc.

Modem — Modulator/Demodulator. A device that converts digital signals to/from analog signals for transmission over analog communications lines.

Multi-Link Protocol — A protocol, defined in RFC 1717, that defines a way to perform inverse multiplexing on the TCP/IP point-to-point protocol (PPP); i.e., the ability to use multiple serial WAN channels for transferring one datastream. With MLP, a user can send and receive data over both B channels in an ISDN basic-rate interface connection

NAT — Network Address Translation uses a unique IP address for a WAN interface. This IP Address is negotiated through PPP or assigned statically by the Internet Service Provider (ISP). NAT reduces the number of unique IP addresses for all clients using a particular WAN interface to one.

NetWare — A Network Operating System developed by Novell, Inc. providing shared access to files and other network services.

Network Layer — Layer 3 of the OSI reference model that provides the protocol routing function.

Node — Refers to a termination point for communication links; entity that can access a network.

CSX200 Installation Guide

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Cabletron Systems CSX200 manual Glossary
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CSX200 specifications

Cabletron Systems was a leading developer of networking solutions, and its CSX400 and CSX200 series of high-performance switches represent some of the key innovations in the field of enterprise networking during their time. Both models were geared towards enhancing network reliability, efficiency, and speed, particularly in environments where heavy data traffic and complex networking demands were prevalent.

The CSX400, designed for larger enterprises, boasts a robust architecture capable of handling significant throughput. One of its standout features is its stackable design, allowing multiple switches to be interconnected and managed seamlessly as a single unit. This scalability provides organizations with the flexibility to expand their networks without significant infrastructure overhauls. The CSX400 supports various Ethernet standards, including 10/100 Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet, positioning it to effectively manage both legacy and modern networking requirements.

In addition to its scalability, the CSX400 is distinguished by its advanced Layer 2 and Layer 3 routing capabilities. This dual-layer functionality enables efficient data handling and is instrumental in managing traffic between different network segments. Moreover, the switch incorporates features like VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support and Quality of Service (QoS) prioritization, allowing for enhanced performance of critical applications and streamlined bandwidth allocation.

On the other hand, the CSX200 series is tailored for smaller enterprises or branch offices needing a reliable yet efficient networking solution. Despite its compact design, the CSX200 is equipped with essential features that promote effective network management and security. It offers a simplified management interface, making it user-friendly for network administrators. The switch also provides essential access control measures, employing technologies like IEEE 802.1X for network access security.

Both the CSX400 and CSX200 prioritize performance through the incorporation of advanced switching technologies. They support features such as Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), enabling loop-free topologies and enhanced network resilience. These attributes are particularly crucial in dynamic networking environments where downtime can have significant repercussions on business operations.

Overall, Cabletron Systems' CSX400 and CSX200 series represent a blend of scalability, advanced routing capabilities, and user-friendly management, making them vital assets for organizations looking to optimize their network infrastructure during a period of rapid technological evolution. With their rich feature sets and unwavering performance, these switches helped pave the way for modern networking solutions that cater to diverse enterprise needs.
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