Chapter 3

Chapter 3: Connecting the Switch

Overview

This chapter will explain how to connect network devices to the Switch.. The following diagram shows a typical network configuration..

 

Cable../DSL

 

Wireless

Internet

Modem

Router

Access Point

Desktop Notebook

Server

Typical Network Configuration

When you connect your network devices, make sure you don’t exceed the maximum cabling distances, which are listed in the following table:

Maximum Cabling Distances

From

To

Maximum Distance

 

 

 

Switch

Switch or Hub

100 meters (328 feet)

Hub†

Hub

5 meters (16..4 feet)

Switch or Hub†

Computer

100 meters (328 feet)

 

 

 

A hub refers to any type of 100Mbps hub.. A 10Mbps hub connected to another 10Mbps hub can span up to 100 meters (328 feet)..

Pre-Installation Considerations

Fast Ethernet Considerations

If you are using the Switch for Fast Ethernet (100Mbps) applications, you must observe the following guidelines:

Connecting the Switch

Full-Duplex Considerations

The Switch provides full-duplex support for its RJ-45 ports.. Full-duplex operation allows data to be sent and received simultaneously, doubling a port’s potential data throughput.. If you will be using the Switch in full-duplex mode, the maximum cable length using Category 5 cable is 328 feet (100 meters)..

1000BASE-T Cable Requirements

All Category 5 UTP cables that are used for 100Base-TX connections should also work for 1000Base-T, providing that all four wire pairs are connected.. However, it is recommended that for all critical connections, or any new cable installations, Category 5e (enhanced Category

5)or Category 6 cable should be used.. The Category

5e specification includes test parameters that are only recommendations for Category 5.. Therefore, the first step in preparing existing Category 5 cabling for running 1000Base-T is a simple test of the cable installation to be sure that it complies with the IEEE 802..3ab standards..

Positioning the Switch

Before you choose a location for the Switch, observe the following guidelines:

Make sure that the Switch is accessible and that the cables can be connected easily..

Keep cabling away from sources of electrical noise, power lines, and fluorescent lighting fixtures..

Position the Switch away from water and moisture sources..

To ensure adequate air flow around the Switch, be sure to provide a minimum clearance of two inches (50mm)..

Do not stack free-standing Switches more than four units high..

Placement Options

There are two ways to physically install the Switch, either set the Switch on its four rubber feet for desktop placement or mount the switch in a standard-sized, 19-inch high rack for rack-mount placement..

48-Port 10/100 + 4-Port Gigabit Switch with WebView and Power over Ethernet



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Cisco Systems SRW248G4P manual Overview, Pre-Installation Considerations, Placement Options

SRW248G4P specifications

Cisco Systems SRW248G4P is a high-performance Layer 2 switch designed specifically for small to medium-sized businesses that require robust networking solutions. This switch supports Power over Ethernet (PoE), providing a highly flexible option for powering devices such as IP phones, wireless access points, and surveillance cameras.

One of the standout features of the SRW248G4P is its 48 10/100 Ethernet ports, which ensure ample connectivity for various networked devices. Additionally, it offers four Gigabit Ethernet uplink ports, allowing for seamless integration with existing network infrastructure and facilitating high-speed data transfer. The combination of these ports enables businesses to expand their network capabilities as needed without the immediate requirement for added devices.

The SRW248G4P comes equipped with advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities, including VLAN support, which enables the segmentation of network traffic for improved performance and security. It also supports Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), which help prevent network loops and ensure redundancy. With features like Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), multiple physical connections can be combined into a single logical link, enhancing bandwidth and providing failover capabilities.

Another critical attribute of the Cisco SRW248G4P is its user-friendly management interface. The switch can be managed through a web-based interface, allowing IT administrators to configure settings, monitor performance, and troubleshoot issues with ease. Additionally, it supports SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) for integration with network management systems, further simplifying monitoring tasks.

Power over Ethernet functionality is a significant advantage of the SRW248G4P, providing up to 15.4 watts per port. This capability simplifies installation and reduces the clutter of power cords and outlets. Organizations can deploy PoE-enabled devices in locations that lack power sources, thus enhancing overall flexibility in network design.

In summary, the Cisco Systems SRW248G4P is a feature-rich switch tailored for small to medium-sized enterprises. Its blend of performance, management capabilities, and advanced features like PoE makes it a valuable asset in any organization's networking setup. By ensuring reliable connectivity and ease of management, businesses can focus more on growth and their core objectives rather than worrying about network complexities.