Introduction to SPMA for the FRX4000, FRX6000, and SmartSwitch 1800

NOTE

The protocol support functions which are available via your SPMA application will vary depending on the protocol support you have purchased for your FRX or SmartSwitch 1800 device and the version of Þrmware you are running. For more information about available protocols and the current availability of SPMA support for those protocols, contact Cabletron SystemsÕ Global Call Center.

Note that because the FRX4000 and FRX6000 provide virtually the same functionality, they will be referred to collectively throughout this manual as the FRX. Where signiÞcant differences exist, they will be noted.

NOTE

SPMA support for the FRX4000, FRX6000 and SmartSwitch 1800 can also be used to manage new Frame Relay Modules for the SmartSwitch 9000 that are based on FRX technology: the 9W410 (Ethernet) and the 9W450 (Token Ring). Please note, however, that at the time of this SPMA release these Frame Relay modules were not yet available; therefore, this software has not been tested against them, and supplied functionality will be limited. Full SmartSwitch 9000 Frame Relay Module support will be included in a future release of SPMA.

Using this Guide

Your SPECTRUM Portable Management Application (SPMA) for the FRX4000, FRX6000, and SmartSwitch 1800 consists of a number of different applications, each of which provides a portion of the overall management functionality. Each of these applications can be accessed from the icon menu (if you are using a management platform) and from the Stand-alone Launcher or the command line (if you are running in stand-alone mode); in addition, several applications can also be accessed from within the Hub View, a graphical display of the device and its installed interfaces.

This UserÕs Guide describes how to use most of the applications included with the module; note that the instructions provided in this guide apply to the FRX or SmartSwitch module regardless of the operating system or management platform you are using. Instructions for launching each individual function from the command line (stand-alone mode) are also included in each chapter.

Following is a description of the applications covered in this guide; while we provide as much background information as we can, we do assume that youÕre familiar with Ethernet, Token Ring, Frame Relay, and X.25 networks, and with general network management concepts:

¥Chapter 1, Introduction, provides a list of related documentation, describes certain software conventions, and shows you how to contact the Cabletron Systems Global Call Center.

¥Chapter 2, Using the Hub View, describes the visual display of each device and explains how to use the mouse within the Hub View; some basic functions (changing the Hub View display, opening menus and windows, enabling and

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Using this Guide

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Cabletron Systems FRX6000, FRX4000, 1800 manual Using this Guide
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1800, FRX4000, FRX6000 specifications

Cabletron Systems, a leading player in network management and telecommunications solutions during the late 20th century, introduced several innovative products that played a crucial role in shaping enterprise networking. Among these were the Cabletron FRX6000, FRX4000, and the FRX1800, which delivered advanced features aimed at enhancing network performance, security, and scalability.

The Cabletron FRX6000 was designed as a robust multi-layer switch, ideal for large-scale enterprise environments. It supported extensive routing capabilities, allowing organizations to manage traffic efficiently even under heavy loads. The FRX6000 boasted high throughput rates and low latency, making it suitable for demanding applications. With support for various network protocols, including IP, IPX, and AppleTalk, its adaptability made it a versatile choice for diverse networking needs. Moreover, security features like VLAN support and Access Control Lists (ACLs) provided enhanced protection against potential threats.

Moving to the FRX4000, this model offered a balance between performance and cost-effectiveness. The FRX4000 maintained many of the essential features of its larger counterpart while catering to medium-sized enterprises. It provided Layer 3 routing and could handle multiple simultaneous connections, ensuring seamless communication across departments. The modular design allowed for easy upgrades, enabling businesses to expand their network infrastructure without significant overhauls. This made the FRX4000 an attractive option for organizations looking to optimize their network investments.

Lastly, the FRX1800, designed for small to medium businesses, focused on simplicity and ease of use while still incorporating powerful network management capabilities. Its user-friendly interface made it accessible for organizations lacking extensive IT resources. The FRX1800 provided essential functionalities such as Integrated Layer 2 switching and routing, network monitoring, and basic security features, ensuring that even smaller companies could maintain efficient, reliable networking without overwhelming complexity.

All three models utilized advanced technologies, including a high bandwidth backbone and state-of-the-art switching architecture, to enable fast and reliable data transfer. They also supported Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms, allowing businesses to prioritize critical applications and ensure consistent performance across the network.

In summary, the Cabletron FRX6000, FRX4000, and FRX1800 were pivotal in enhancing network capabilities, providing organizations with scalable, secure, and high-performance options tailored to their specific needs.
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