Overview of IBM Networking

SNA Switching Services

SNA Switching Services

Note SNA Switching Services functionality supersedes all functionality previously available in the APPN feature in the Cisco IOS software. SNASw configuration will not accept the previous APPN configuration commands. Previous APPN users should use this chapter to configure APPN functionality using the new SNASw commands.

SNASw provides an easier way to design and implement networks with SNA routing requirements. Previously, this network design was accomplished using APPN with full network node (NN) support in the Cisco router. This type of support provided the SNA routing functionality needed, but was inconsistent with the trends in Enterprise networks today. The corporate intranet is replacing the SNA WAN. Enterprises are replacing their traditional SNA network with an IP infrastructure that supports traffic from a variety of clients, using a variety of protocols, requiring access to applications on a variety of platforms, including SNA applications on Enterprise servers.

While SNA routing is still required when multiple servers must be accessed, the number of nodes required to perform this function is decreasing as the IP infrastructure grows and as the amount of native SNA traffic in the network decreases.

SNASw enables an enterprise to develop their IP infrastructure, while meeting SNA routing requirements.

The number of NNs in the network and the amount of broadcast traffic are reduced. Configuration is simplified, and SNA data traffic can be transported within the IP infrastructure. The following features provide this functionality:

HPR Capable SNA Routing Services, page 234

Branch Extender, page 234

Enterprise Extender (HPR/IP), page 235

Usability Features, page 236

Management Enhancements, page 237

LAN and IP-Focused Connection Types, page 238

Benefits of SNASw

SNASw provides the following benefits:

Scalable APPN Networks, page 233

IP Infrastructure Support, page 233

Reduced Configuration Requirements, page 233

Network Design Simplicity, page 233

Improved Availability, page 233

Increased Management Capabilities, page 233

Architectural Compliance, page 233

 

Cisco IOS Bridging and IBM Networking Configuration Guide

BC-232

78-11737-02

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IBM BC-201 manual SNA Switching Services, Benefits of SNASw, BC-232