Chapter 6

X.25 Status and Configuration

About using the X.25 protocol; configuring X.25 ports; viewing X.25 management, congestion, and error stats

An FRX or SmartSwitch 1800 port conÞgured to run X.25 as its layer 2 protocol can connect to an X.25 DTE or an X.25 network. This allows the port to transmit X.25 trafÞc, as well as IP and IPX trafÞc (encapsulated as per RFC 1356) and SNA trafÞc. For any FRX or SmartSwitch 1800 physical ports which have been conÞgured to use X.25 as their layer 2 protocol (that is, those which display a Port Type of X25), SPMA provides a variety of statistical information.

For each physical port conÞgured to run X.25, one conÞguration window and three statistical windows are provided:

¥The X.25 Physical Port ConÞguration window allows you to conÞgure basic operational parameters related to the X.25 protocol;

¥X.25 Management Stats provide management information about standard LAPB command and response frames, displayed via meters;

¥X.25 Congestion Stats provide information about standard LAPB command and response frames related to the level of trafÞc present, displayed in meters; and

¥The X.25 Errors window provides information about standard LAPB command and response frames related to error conditions, also displayed in meters.

These windows and their functions are described in the following sections.

The statistical windows display their information via the SPMA Meters application; for

TIP more information on how to manipulate and conÞgure these meters, see the SPMA Tools Guide.

6-1

Page 113
Image 113
Cabletron Systems 1800, FRX4000, FRX6000 manual Status and Configuration

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.