Bridging

A lower assigned value gives the port a higher Priority when BPDUs are compared. The allowable range is 0ÑFF hexadecimal (0Ñ255 decimal); the default is 80 hexadecimal.

Path Cost

Displays the cost that this port will contribute to the calculation of the overall Root path cost in a ConÞguration BPDU transmitted by this bridge port. You can lower a portÕs Path Cost to make the port more competitive in the selection of the Designated PortÑfor example, you may want to assign a lower path cost to a port on a higher performance bridge. The allowable range is 1 to 65,535.

Designated Cost

Displays the cost of the path to the Root Bridge of the Designated Port on the LAN to which this port is attached. This cost is added to the Path Cost to test the value of the Root Path Cost parameter received in ConÞguration BPDUs.

Designated Root

Displays the unique bridge identiÞer of the bridge that is assumed to be the Root Bridge.

Designated Bridge

Displays the network address portion of the Bridge ID (MAC address/priority component) for the bridge that is believed to be the Designated Bridge for the LAN associated with this port.

The Designated Bridge ID, along with the Designated Port and Port IdentiÞer parameters for the port, is used to determine whether this port should be the Designated Port for the LAN to which it is attached. The Designated Bridge ID is also used to test the value of the Bridge IdentiÞer parameter in received BPDUs.

Designated Port

Displays the network address portion of the Port ID (which includes a manageable priority component) of the port believed to be the Designated Port for the LAN associated with this port.

The Designated Port ID, along with the Designated Bridge and Port IdentiÞer parameters for the port, is used to determine whether this port should be the Designated Port for the LAN to which it is attached. Management also uses it to determine the Bridged LAN topology.

Topology

This indicates how many times the bridgeÕs Topology Change ßag has been changed since the device was last powered up or initialized. It also indicates the time elapsed since the topology last changed. The Topology Change ßag increments each time a bridge enters or leaves the network, or when the Root Bridge ID changes.

Bridge Spanning Tree

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Cabletron Systems CSX200, CSX400 Path Cost, Designated Cost, Designated Root, Designated Bridge, Designated Port, Topology
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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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