Configuring Layer 3 Interfaces

Tunnel Interfaces

You can use loopback interfaces for performance analysis, testing, and local communications. Loopback interfaces can act as a termination address for routing protocol sessions. This loopback configuration allows routing protocol sessions to stay up even if some of the outbound interfaces are down.

Tunnel Interfaces

Cisco NX-OS supports tunnel interfaces as IP tunnels. IP tunnels can encapsulate a same- ayer or higher layer protocol and transport the result over IP through a tunnel that is created between two routers.

Licensing Requirements for Layer 3 Interfaces

This feature does not require a license. Any feature not included in a license package is bundled with the Cisco NX-OS system images and is provided at no extra charge to you. For a complete explanation of the Cisco NX-OS licensing scheme, see the Cisco NX-OS Licensing Guide.

Guidelines and Limitations for Layer 3 Interfaces

Layer 3 interfaces have the following configuration guidelines and limitations:

If you change a Layer 3 interface to a Layer 2 interface, Cisco NX-OS shuts down the interface, reenables the interface, and removes all configuration specific to Layer 3.

If you change a Layer 2 interface to a Layer 3 interface, Cisco NX-OS shuts down the interface, reenables the interface, and deletes all configuration specific to Layer 2.

Default Settings for Layer 3 Interfaces

The default setting for the Layer 3 Admin state is Shut.

Configuring Layer 3 Interfaces

Configuring a Routed Interface

Procedure

 

Command or Action

Purpose

Step 1

switch# configure terminal

Enters global configuration mode.

Step 2

switch(config)# interface ethernet

Enters interface configuration mode.

 

slot/port

 

Step 3

switch(conifg-if)# no switchport

Configures the interface as a Layer 3 interface and deletes

 

 

any configuration specific to Layer 2 on this interface.

 

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Cisco Systems N5KC5596TFA Licensing Requirements for Layer 3 Interfaces, Guidelines and Limitations for Layer 3 Interfaces

N5KC5596TFA specifications

The Cisco Systems N5KC5596TFA is a high-performance data center switch designed specifically for modern architectures requiring low-latency, high-bandwidth connectivity. As part of the Nexus 5000 series, the N5KC5596TFA addresses the needs of virtualized environments, cloud computing, and highly dynamic workloads, making it an essential choice for enterprises and service providers.

One of the standout features of the N5KC5596TFA is its impressive port density. The switch offers 48 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) ports and 4 40 Gigabit Ethernet (40GbE) uplinks, providing flexibility to connect a variety of devices and ensuring high throughput across the network. This port configuration is ideal for connecting multiple servers and storage devices, making it perfect for environments with significant data traffic.

The switch supports a range of advanced technologies such as Virtual Extensible LAN (VXLAN) for improving scalability and multi-tenancy in data center networks. VXLAN encapsulates Layer 2 Ethernet frames within Layer 4 UDP packets, allowing for a larger address space and effective overlay networking, which is crucial for cloud deployments.

Another notable aspect of the N5KC5596TFA is its support for Data Center Bridging (DCB), which enhances the reliability and performance of Ethernet networks. DCB features like Priority Flow Control (PFC) and Enhanced Transmission Selection (ETS) help to minimize data loss and ensure Quality of Service (QoS) for various types of traffic, including storage and regular data, which is critical in a converged infrastructure.

Security is also a priority with the N5KC5596TFA, as it comes equipped with features such as Access Control Lists (ACLs) and port security, helping to safeguard the network from unauthorized access and potential threats.

In terms of management, the switch offers integration with Cisco's Data Center Network Manager (DCNM), providing tools for monitoring, management, and automation, which simplifies operational tasks. Additionally, it supports Cisco's Application Centric Infrastructure (ACI), enabling a more comprehensive and application-focused approach to networking.

Overall, the Cisco Systems N5KC5596TFA is engineered for organizations looking to build robust, highly efficient, and secure data center environments. Its combination of high density, versatile connectivity options, and advanced networking technologies makes it a powerful solution for meeting the demands of today’s enterprise workloads.