Table 1. Features and Benefits of Cisco Catalyst 2960 Series

Feature

Ease of Use and Deployment

Benefit

•Express Setup simplifies initial configuration with a Web browser, eliminating the need for more complex terminal emulation programs and CLI knowledge.

•DHCP autoconfiguration of multiple switches through a boot server eases switch deployment.

•Automatic QoS (Auto QoS) simplifies QoS configuration in voice-over-IP (VoIP) networks by issuing interface and global switch commands to detect Cisco IP phones, classify traffic, and enable egress queue configuration.

•Autosensing on each 10/100 port detects the speed of the attached device and automatically configures the port for 10- or 100-Mbps operation, easing switch deployment in mixed 10- and 100-Mbps environments.

•Autonegotiating on all ports automatically selects half- or full-duplex transmission mode to optimize bandwidth.

•Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) helps enable dynamic trunk configuration across all switch ports.

•Port Aggregation Protocol (PAgP) automates the creation of Cisco Fast EtherChannel® groups or Gigabit EtherChannel groups to link to another switch, router, or server.

•Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) allows the creation of Ethernet channeling with devices that conform to IEEE 802.3ad. This feature is similar to Cisco EtherChannel technology and PAgP.

•DHCP Server enables a convenient deployment option for the assignment of IP addresses in networks that do not have without a dedicated DHCP server.

•DHCP Relay allows a DHCP relay agent to broadcast DHCP requests to the network DHCP server.

•1000BASE-SX, 1000BASE-LX/LH, 1000BASE-ZX, 1000BASE-BX, 100BASE-FX, 100BASE-LX, 100BASE-BX, and coarse wavelength-division multiplexing (CWDM) physical interface support through a field-replaceable SFP module provides unprecedented flexibility in switch deployment.

•The default configuration stored in flash memory ensures that the switch can be quickly connected to the network and can pass traffic with minimal user intervention.

•Automatic medium-dependent interface crossover (Auto-MDIX) automatically adjusts transmit and receive pairs if an incorrect cable type (crossover or straight-through) is installed on a copper port.

•Time-domain reflectometer (TDR) to diagnose and resolve cabling problems on copper ports.

AVAILABILITY AND SCALABILITY

Superior Redundancy for Fault Backup

•Cisco UplinkFast and BackboneFast technologies help ensure quick failover recovery, enhancing overall network stability and reliability.

•IEEE 802.1w Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol provides rapid spanning-tree convergence independent of spanning-tree timers and the benefit of distributed processing.

•Per-VLAN Rapid Spanning Tree Plus (PVRST+) allows rapid spanning-tree reconvergence on a per-VLAN spanning-tree basis, without requiring the implementation of spanning-tree instances.

•Command-switch redundancy enabled in Cisco Network Assistant software allows designation of a backup command switch that takes over if the primary command switch fails.

•Unidirectional Link Detection Protocol (UDLD) and Aggressive UDLD allow unidirectional links to be detected and disabled to avoid problems such as spanning-tree loops.

•Switch port autorecovery (errdisable) automatically attempts to re-enable a link that is disabled because of a network error.

•Cisco Redundant Power System 675 (RPS 675) support provides superior internal power-source redundancy for up to six Cisco networking devices, resulting in improved fault tolerance and network uptime.

•Bandwidth aggregation up to 8 Gbps through Cisco Gigabit EtherChannel technology and up to 800 Mbps through Cisco Fast EtherChannel technology enhances fault tolerance and offers higher-speed aggregated bandwidth between switches and to routers and individual servers.

© 2005 Cisco Systems, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Cisco Systems manual Features and Benefits of Cisco Catalyst 2960 Series, Ease of Use and Deployment
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2960 specifications

Cisco Systems 2960 series switches are a prominent solution in the networking landscape, known for their reliability, scalability, and feature-rich offerings. Ideal for small to medium-sized enterprises, these switches provide a robust foundation for network infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and connectivity.

One of the standout features of the Cisco 2960 series is its Layer 2 switching capabilities. The switches support multiple VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), allowing network administrators to segment traffic efficiently and enhance security protocols. This is crucial in modern networks where managing traffic and isolating sensitive information is a priority.

The Cisco 2960 series also incorporates advanced Quality of Service (QoS) features, enabling the prioritization of critical applications and services. This functionality ensures that time-sensitive data, such as voice and video traffic, maintains a high quality of service even in congested networks. With support for IEEE 802.1p and DSCP marking, administrators can fine-tune their network performance to meet specific organizational needs.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is another significant characteristic of the Cisco 2960 series. This feature allows switches to deliver electrical power alongside data over Ethernet cables to devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras. With PoE, organizations can reduce clutter from power cables and increase deployment flexibility for various devices.

In terms of security, the Cisco 2960 series is equipped with a range of integrated security features. The switch supports port security, 802.1X authentication, and Access Control Lists (ACLs), providing robust defenses against unauthorized access and potential network vulnerabilities. These security measures are essential for protecting sensitive data and ensuring compliance with industry regulations.

Moreover, the Cisco 2960 series offers enhanced network management capabilities with Cisco's Intelligent Network Services. This includes support for Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), Cisco Prime, and Embedded Event Manager (EEM), allowing for efficient monitoring, troubleshooting, and policy enforcement across the network.

Additionally, the Cisco 2960 switches provide various models and configurations, catering to different networking needs. Options include models with varying port densities, uplink configurations, and stacking capabilities, making it easy for organizations to choose solutions that align perfectly with their requirements.

In summary, the Cisco 2960 series is a versatile and essential component of modern networking environments. Its advanced features, including Layer 2 support, QoS, PoE, robust security, and diverse management tools, make it an excellent choice for organizations looking to build a strong and secure network infrastructure.
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