DES-2218 Ethernet Switch User’s Guide

Introduction to Spanning Tree Protocol Parameters

The Spanning Tree Protocol works on two levels: the bridge (i.e., switch) and port levels. At the bridge level, the STP algorithm calculates a bridge identifier for each bridge and then determines the root bridge and the designated bridges. On the port level, the spanning tree protocol determines the root port and designated ports.

On the bridge level, these terms are used:

♦Root Bridge The bridge with the lowest-numbered bridge identifier. The root bridge should be the best bridge among the bridges on the loop to ensure the highest network reliability and performance.

♦Designated Bridge A bridge becomes the designated bridge for a network segment if it has a lower root path cost to the root bridge than the other bridges on the same segment. If all bridges have the same root path cost, then the one with the lowest bridge identifier becomes the designated bridge. Since the root path cost of the root bridge is zero, the root bridge automatically becomes the designated bridge for the segments connected onto it.

♦Bridge Identifier This is a combination of the bridge priority (a parameter you can set) and the bridge MAC address (a unique, unchangeable number set at the factory). A lower bridge identifier results to a higher priority for the bridge, thus increasing its chance of being selected as the root bridge.

♦Root Path Cost The root path cost of a bridge is the sum of the path cost of the port from which a packet is forwarded and the root path costs of all the bridges the packet goes through. The root path cost of the root bridge is zero.

♦Bridge Priority This parameter can be set. The smaller the number you set, the higher the bridge priority is. The higher the bridge priority, the more chance the bridge has of becoming the root bridge.

Using the Console Interface

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D-Link DES-2218 manual Introduction to Spanning Tree Protocol Parameters
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DES-2218 specifications

The D-Link DES-2218 is a robust and versatile 18-port Layer 2 managed switch designed for businesses seeking to enhance their network performance and reliability. With a combination of advanced features and reliable technologies, the DES-2218 offers a powerful solution for managing network traffic efficiently.

One of the standout features of the DES-2218 is its advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities. The switch supports a variety of network protocols, making it suitable for various business applications. The 18 ports, which include 16 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet ports and 2 Gigabit SFP slots, provide flexibility for both copper and fiber optic connections, allowing organizations to implement a tailored network infrastructure according to their specific needs.

The switch also incorporates VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support, enabling the segmentation of traffic for improved security and performance. This feature allows network administrators to isolate sensitive data and create efficient, manageable traffic flows that enhance overall network efficiency. Furthermore, the DES-2218 supports 802.1Q VLAN tagging, which is essential for implementing VLANs in larger, more complex networks.

In addition to VLAN capabilities, the DES-2218 offers robust Quality of Service (QoS) features. These QoS functionalities prioritize network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need for optimal performance. This is particularly beneficial for businesses that rely on video conferencing, VoIP services, or other real-time communications.

Another notable characteristic of the D-Link DES-2218 is its support for network management protocols such as SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), RMON (Remote Monitoring), and WEB Management. These features enable administrators to remotely monitor and manage the network, ensuring that any potential issues can be addressed before they impact business operations.

Security is another priority in the design of the D-Link DES-2218. The switch supports various security features, including port security and MAC address filtering, which help protect the network from unauthorized access and ensure that only legitimate users can connect.

Overall, the D-Link DES-2218 is an feature-rich managed switch that combines essential technologies and characteristics to deliver a reliable networking solution for businesses of all sizes. With its extensive management capabilities, enhanced security measures, and advanced VLAN and QoS support, the DES-2218 is an ideal choice for organizations looking to optimize their network performance.
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