Chapter 2 Preparing to Install the Router

Preparing to Connect to a Network

Preparing to Connect to a Network

When setting up your router, consider distance limitations and potential electromagnetic interference (EMI) as defined by the applicable local and international regulations.

Network connection considerations are provided for several types of network interfaces and are described in the following sections:

Ethernet Connections, page 2-9

Token Ring Connections, page 2-10

Serial Connections, page 2-10

ISDN BRI Connections, page 2-12

56-K/Switched-56-kbps DSU/CSU Connections, page 2-13

See the following online documents for more information about network connections and interfaces:

Cisco Network Modules Hardware Installation Guide

Cisco Interface Cards Installation Guide

Cisco Modular Access Router Cable Specifications

Warning To avoid electric shock, do not connect safety extra-low voltage (SELV) circuits to telephone-network voltage (TNV) circuits. LAN ports contain SELV circuits, and WAN ports contain TNV circuits. Some LAN and WAN ports both use RJ-45 connectors. Statement 1021

Ethernet Connections

The IEEE has established Ethernet as standard IEEE 802.3. The most common Ethernet implementations are as follows:

100BASE-T—2-pair Category 5 or unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) straight-through RJ-45 cable.

10BASE-2—Ethernet on thin coaxial cable, also known as thin Ethernet. The maximum segment distance is 607 feet (186 meters).

10BASE-5—Ethernet on thick coaxial cable, also known as thick Ethernet. The maximum segment distance is 1,640 feet (500 meters).

10BASE-T—Ethernet on unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable. The maximum segment distance is 328 feet (100 meters). UTP cables look like the wiring used for ordinary telephones; however, UTP cables meet certain electrical standards that telephone cables do not meet.

See the Cisco Modular Access Router Cable Specifications document for information about Ethernet cables, connectors, and pinouts. This document is available on Cisco.com.

Cisco 3700 Series Routers Hardware Installation Guide

 

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Cisco Systems 3700 Series manual Preparing to Connect to a Network, Ethernet Connections

3700 Series specifications

Cisco Systems 3700 Series routers are a pivotal part of Cisco's portfolio, designed for medium to large enterprises aiming to deliver secure and efficient networking capabilities. Introduced as a versatile solution, these routers provide a comprehensive blend of performance, scalability, and investment protection.

One of the standout features of the Cisco 3700 Series is its modular architecture, allowing organizations to customize their router according to specific needs. This modularity supports various modules for different functions, including voice, data, and video, making the 3700 Series an ideal choice for converged networking environments. Administrators can enhance functionality through an array of WAN and voice interface cards that adapt as the organization's needs evolve.

The 3700 Series is built on Cisco's IOS (Internetwork Operating System), ensuring robust and high-quality performance. It supports advanced routing protocols including EIGRP, OSPF, and BGP, facilitating efficient data transmission across diverse environments. This versatility helps organizations implement sophisticated multi-site connectivity and enables reliable performance in complex network scenarios.

Security is a paramount concern in modern networking, and the Cisco 3700 Series delivers with features such as integrated firewall services, VPN support, and intrusion detection capabilities. These security measures protect sensitive data and ensure secure communication between remote sites—critical in today’s cyber landscape.

Another key characteristic of the 3700 Series is its support for Quality of Service (QoS), which prioritizes time-sensitive traffic such as voice and video. By ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they require, organizations can maintain the quality of service that their users expect.

Moreover, the Cisco 3700 Series is designed with redundancy in mind. Features like dual power supplies and hot-swappable fan trays enhance reliability and uptime, which are crucial for mission-critical applications.

Furthermore, energy efficiency is an increasingly important consideration in network design. The Cisco 3700 Series adheres to modern energy standards, helping reduce the overall carbon footprint while supporting high-performance capabilities.

In summary, the Cisco Systems 3700 Series routers stand out for their modularity, advanced routing capabilities, robust security features, and energy efficiency, making them an optimal choice for enterprises that not only need performance but also flexibility and reliability in their networking solutions. As businesses continue to evolve and adapt, the Cisco 3700 Series is a dependable partner in their connectivity journey, ensuring they can meet current demands while preparing for future challenges.