Chapter 15

Configuring AppleTalk

This chapter describes how to configure AppleTalk on HP 9304M, HP 9308M, and HP 6308M-SX routing switches using the CLI and the Web management interface. The routing switches support Phase II of AppleTalk routing.

For complete syntax information for the CLI commands shown in this chapter, see the Command Line Interface Reference.

NOTE: In addition to the routing features described in this chapter, the routing switches support AppleTalk cable VLANs. If you configure multiple cable VLANs, the routing switch bridges traffic within a VLAN and routes traffic between VLANs. See “Configuring AppleTalk Cable VLANs” on page 16-29.

Overview of AppleTalk

AppleTalk inter-networks are built upon distinct networks interconnected by routers. Each network is composed of nodes—workstations, printers, and servers. AppleTalk zones are assigned across AppleTalk networks to further define end-user access to shared resources such as printers and servers.

Address Assignment

AppleTalk node addresses are assigned dynamically. When a Macintosh running AppleTalk starts up, it selects a network address and checks to see if that address is already in use. If the address is already in use by another client, a message will be returned to the requesting station and the process will repeat until an uncommitted address is located.

Network Components

Nodes

The node is the primary building block of any AppleTalk network. A node is any device on an AppleTalk network such as a workstation, printer, or server running AppleTalk.

Networks

Multiple nodes that share the same logical segment comprise an AppleTalk network. Each node in the network is assigned an AppleTalk address.

An AppleTalk address is comprised of a 16-bit network number and an 8-bit node number. For example, 500.50 refers to node 50 on network 500.

An AppleTalk network address is a single 16-bit network number or a network range (cable range). The network range specifies a range of contiguous network numbers with start and end values.

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