Planning for CSX400 ISDN Configuration

Collect Network Information

Before you begin, you need to obtain information about the network to which you are adding the CSX400. Some of the information is obtained from your central site or remote site network administrator. Other information is obtained from your ISDN service provider.

You must define the name and security password of the CSX400, ISDN line information and the Ethernet LAN IP and/or IPX address. You need to identify all of the remote routers and their routing and bridging capability, ISDN phone numbers, addressing and security information. You also need to decide whether you will use Internet Firewall Filtering if you are using IP routing. The following sections contain diagrams and tables to help you gather and organize the information.

Names and Passwords

You must choose a name for the CSX400 and the authentication password, both of which are used by a remote site to authenticate the target router. For each remote router, you must have the router name and its authentication password which is used by the CSX400 to authenticate the remote router. The name and password are used in both PAP and CHAP authentication. Figure 3 shows how this information is used.

PAP AUTHENTICATION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NEW YORK

NEW YORK AND XYZ

 

 

 

CHICAGO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SYSTEM NAME = NEW YORK SYSTEM PASSWORD = XYZ

REMOTE ROUTER DATABASE REMOTE = CHICAGO PASSWORD = ABC

ACCEPTED/REJECTED

SYSTEM NAME = CHICAGO SYSTEM PASSWORD = ABC

REMOTE ROUTER DATABASE REMOTE = NEW YORK PASSWORD = XYZ

194408

Figure 3 PAP Authentication

30 CSX400 and CSX400-DC User’s Guide

Page 44
Image 44
Cabletron Systems CSX400-DC manual Collect Network Information, Names and Passwords

CSX400-DC, 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.