IPX Interface Configuration

Diagnostics Enabled

This parameter determines the IPX interfaceÕs ability to handle Novell diagnostic packets. If Yes is selected, IPX will forward or respond to a diagnostic packet depending on the packetÕs address. If No is selected, the IPX interface will ignore Novell diagnostic packets. The default value for this parameter is No.

Serialization Enabled

This parameter determines whether NetWare Þle server serialization security frames will be forwarded on the interface. These broadcast frames are used by Novell to hold information regarding the licensing of the Þle server executables.

If Yes is selected, these frames will be forwarded; if No, they will not. Selecting No allows Þltering of these broadcasts to reduce WAN trafÞc, and is not intended to interfere with copyright-protection mechanisms. The default value for this parameter is No.

WAN Enabled

This parameter is conÞgurable only if you have selected Frame Relay or X.25 as your Interface Type. It determines whether NovellÕs IPXWAN protocol will be used (if Yes) or not (if No) on the IPX interface. IPXWAN speciÞes a method for IPX routers to communicate across WAN links. The default value for this parameter is No.

NetBIOS Enabled

This parameter determines whether Novell-encapsulated NetBIOS frames received on the IPX interface will be processed (if Yes) or discarded (if No). The default value for this parameter is No.

Periodic SAP Enabled

This Þeld determines whether the FRX or SmartSwitch 1800 will originate periodic IPX Service Advertising Protocol (SAP) messages from this interface. (The SAP Enabled parameter must be set to Yes, see below). These messages inform the network which SAP entries in the routing table are viable. The default value for this parameter is No.

SAP Enabled

If Yes is selected, the IPX interface will support Service Advertising Protocol (SAP) processing; if No, it will not. SAP is used by IPX to exchange information about Novell service-providing nodes, such as Þle servers and print servers that are available. SAP builds and maintains a database, the Service Advertisement Table, containing the addresses of and routes to speciÞc service-providing nodes (servers), and advertises this information over the network. The default value for this parameter is No.

10-6

Configuring IPX Interfaces

Page 186
Image 186
Cabletron Systems FRX4000 Diagnostics Enabled, Serialization Enabled, WAN Enabled, NetBIOS Enabled, Periodic SAP Enabled

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.