Bridging

¥The Ethernet Special Filter DatabaseÉ window lets 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 Token Ring Special Filter DatabaseÉ window enables you to deÞne complex Þlters for transparently bridged Token Ring frames based upon receive port, source or destination MAC address, Token Ring data type, or data Þeld information (up to 64 bytes) (see Ethernet and Token Ring Special Filter Databases, page 4-49).

¥The Token Ring Bridge ModeÉ window lets you select which type of bridging that will be used by the Token Ring bridging deviceÑTransparent, Source Routing, or Source Route Transparent (see Token Ring Bridge Mode, page 4-83).

¥The Duplex ModesÉ window allows you to conÞgure duplex mode (on or off) for supporting interfaces on the device (see Duplex Modes, page 4-66).

¥Enable Bridge and Disable Bridge options allow you to administratively activate or deactivate bridging at the device level see (Enabling and Disabling Bridging, page 4-14).

¥The Bridge ConÞgurationÉ option opens a window that allows you to set address and routing information for all interfaces on a Token Ring bridging device, including the Bridge Number and the Virtual Ring Number. It also allows you to set source route bridging parameters at the device level (see Using the Bridge and Port ConÞguration Windows, page 4-92).

The individual bridge port index () menu that you can access from the Bridge Status window will provide the following options, depending on which device you are monitoring through SPECTRUM Element Manager:

¥The Connection TypeÉ window displays a text description of the connection type of the selected bridge interface.

¥The DescriptionÉ option displays a text description of a bridge interface from the ifDescr value of the ifIndex related to the selected port.

¥The Performance GraphÉ window graphically displays the trafÞc passing between your bridged networks, and lets you compare and contrast trafÞc processed by each interface (see Performance Graphs, page 4-15).

¥The Source AddressingÉ window displays the contents of the deviceÕs Filtering Database with respect to a selected port. This will display the source MAC addresses that have been detected by the port as it forwards data across the network. The window also lets you set the aging timer that controls how long an inactive MAC address will continue to be stored in the Source Address Database before being aged out (see Source Route ConÞguration, page 4-63).

The Bridge Status Window

4-11

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Cabletron Systems CSX200, CSX400 manual Bridging
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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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