24-port NWay Ethernet Switch User’s Guide

Figure 5-3. Port trunking example

The switch treats all ports in a trunk group as a single port. As such, trunk ports will not be blocked by Spanning Tree.

Data transmitted to a specific host (destination address) will always be transmitted over the same port in a trunk group. This allows packets in a data stream to arrive in the same order they were sent. A trunk connection can be made with any other switch that maintains host-to-host data streams over a single trunk port. Switches that use a load-balancing scheme that sends the packets of a host-to-host data stream over multiple trunk ports cannot have a trunk connection with the DES-3225G switch.

VLANs and Broadcast Domains

VLANs are a collection of users or switch ports grouped together in a secure, autonomous broadcast and multicast domain. The main purpose of setting up VLANs or a broadcast domain on a network is to limit the range and effects of broadcast packets.

Two types of VLANs are implemented on the Switch: 802.1Q VLANs and port-based VLANs. MAC-based broadcast domains are a third option. Only one type of VLAN or broadcast domain can be active on the Switch at any given time, however. Thus, you will need to choose the type of VLAN or broadcast domain you wish to setup on your network and configure the Switch accordingly. 802.1Q VLANs support IEEE 802.1Q tagging, which enables them to span the entire network (assuming all switches on the network are IEEE 802.1Q-compliant). In contrast, MAC-based broadcast domains are limited to the Switch and devices directly connected to them.

All VLANs allow a network to be segmented in order to reduce the size of broadcast domains. All broadcast, multicast, and unknown packets entering the Switch on a particular VLAN will only be forwarded to the stations or ports (802.1Q and port-based) that are members of that VLAN. 802.1Q and port-based VLANs also limit unicast packets to members of the VLAN, thus providing a degree of security to your network.

Another benefit of 802.1Q and port-based VLANs is that you can change the network topology without physically moving stations or changing cable connections. Stations can be ‘moved’ to another VLAN and thus communicate with its members and share its resources, simply by changing the port VLAN settings from one VLAN (the sales VLAN, for example) to another VLAN (the marketing VLAN). This allows VLANs to accommodate network moves, changes and additions with

Switch Management Concepts

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D-Link DES-3225G manual VLANs and Broadcast Domains, Port trunking example

DES-3225G specifications

The D-Link DES-3225GF and DES-3225G are both robust Ethernet switches designed to meet the networking needs of small to medium-sized enterprises and organizations. These devices are part of D-Link's comprehensive range of unmanaged layer 2 switches, known for their reliability and ease of use.

The DES-3225GF features a total of 25 Ethernet ports, including 24 10/100Base-TX ports and 1 Gigabit SFP slot, while the DES-3225G also comes with 25 ports but includes 24 10/100/1000 Mbps copper ports. Both models support Auto-MDI/MDI-X for seamless connection setup without the need for crossover cables, simplifying the deployment process.

One of the standout features of these switches is their wire-speed performance that enables high-speed data transfers and efficient traffic management. Each port is designed to provide non-blocking switching, which ensures that the bandwidth is fully utilized without any packet loss. The switches support IEEE 802.3x flow control, which helps to manage data flow and prevent overflow during heavy traffic periods.

The DES-3225GF and DES-3225G offer users a simple yet efficient way to expand their network. With a plug-and-play design, they require minimal configuration, allowing for quick integration into existing network infrastructures. These switches are equipped with a durable chassis, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of a busy IT environment.

Both models boast energy-efficient technologies that comply with IEEE 802.3az, which helps in reducing power consumption during periods of inactivity. By detecting link status and adjusting power accordingly, these switches contribute to a more sustainable networking solution.

In terms of form factor, the DES-3225GF and DES-3225G are rack-mounted, making them suitable for integration into standard network cabinets. This design ensures that the devices can be efficiently managed alongside other network equipment.

For management and security, the switches support features such as VLAN tagging and port security, allowing network administrators to segment traffic and protect the network from unauthorized access. With their sturdy build, innovative features, and straightforward implementation, the D-Link DES-3225GF and DES-3225G are ideal choices for organizations looking to enhance their network performance while keeping costs manageable.