Bridging

Viewing and Managing Bridging Interfaces

With SPECTRUM Element Manager, you can view and manage each bridging interface supported by your device, including any installed interface modules, such as BRIMs (Bridge/Router Interface Modules) and HSIMs (High Speed Interface Modules).

You can manage your bridge by using the following windows:

¥The Bridge Status window provide you with basic information about the current status of the deviceÕs bridging interfaces, and allow you to enable or disable bridging at each interface of the bridge. The Bridge Status window also lets you access further windows to conÞgure bridging at the device (see The Bridge Status Window, page 4-8).

¥Bridge statisticsÑincluding the Performance Graph, Interface Statistics, CSMACD Statistics, PPP Link Statistics, Dot5 Error Statistics, and Source Route Statistics windowsÑgraphically display the trafÞc passing between your bridged networks, and let you compare and contrast trafÞc and errors processed by each interface (see Bridge Statistics, page 4-15).

¥The Spanning Tree window shows bridge port information and protocol parameters relating to the Spanning Tree AlgorithmÑthe method of determining the controlling bridge when a series of bridges are placed in parallel (see Bridge Spanning Tree, page 4-35).

¥With the Filtering Database window, you can see the contents of the Static and Learned databasesÑthe two address databases which construct the IEEE 802.1 Source Address Table. The bridge uses the contents of these databases to make its packet Þltering and forwarding decisions. You can conÞgure entries in these databases to increase bridging efÞciency across your network (see Filtering Database, page 4-42).

¥The Ethernet Special Filter Database and Token Ring Special Filter Database windows let you conÞgure a special Þltering scheme at your bridge. With this scheme, you can enter Þlter parameters for a frame based on the contents of its source or destination address Þeld, type Þeld, or data Þeld (with offset)Ñthen specify the bridging action to take place at each port when a frame matching your speciÞcations is encountered (see Ethernet and Token Ring Special Filter Databases, page 4-49).

¥The Duplex Modes window lists each interface on your device and whether or not it is using Full Duplex mode. The window allows you to switch full duplex mode on and off for each interface on the device. Full Duplex Switched Ethernet (FDSE) mode allows the interface to transmit and receive information simultaneously, effectively doubling the available bandwidth (see Duplex Modes, page 4-66).

¥The Broadcast Suppression window enables you to monitor the number of broadcast packets received by each interface of a selected device, and conÞgure the maximum number of broadcast packets that will be forwarded to other interfaces (see ConÞguring Broadcast Suppression, page 4-82).

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Viewing and Managing Bridging Interfaces

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Cabletron Systems CSX400, CSX200 manual Viewing and Managing Bridging Interfaces
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CSX200, CSX400 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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