IBM BC-201 Scalable APPN Networks, IP Infrastructure Support, Reduced Configuration Requirements

Overview of IBM Networking

Benefits of SNASw

Scalable APPN Networks

With the Branch Extender (BEX) function, the number of network nodes and the amount of broadcast traffic are reduced.

IP Infrastructure Support

Limiting SNASw routers to the data center and using the BEX function eliminates SNA broadcasts from the IP network. With Enterprise Extender (EE), SNA traffic is routed using the IP routing infrastructure while maintaining end-to-end SNA services.

Reduced Configuration Requirements

By eliminating NNs and using the BEX function, configuration tasks are minimized. Additionally, Cisco has enhanced its auto-configuration capability to eliminate previously required commands.

Network Design Simplicity

By placing all SNA routers in the data center, few SNA routers are required, and they can be easily configured using virtually identical configurations.

Improved Availability

By adding Cisco-unique capabilities to connect-out and distribute traffic across multiple ports, access to resources is improved and traffic can be distributed across multiple ports. Additionally, by supporting the newest HPR Adaptive Rate-Based (ARB) flow control algorithm, bandwidth management for SNA traffic is improved.

Increased Management Capabilities

Two new traces, interprocess and data-link, provide an easier way to view SNASw activity. The APPN Trap MIB allows the user to notify the operator in event of a debilitating problem. Console message archiving provides better tracking of network activity. The ability to format traces in a format so that they are readable by other management products simplify network management because results are more readily available.

Architectural Compliance

Even though SNASw is easier to use and SNASw networks are easier to design, SNASw interfaces with SNA implementations on the market: upstream NNs, end nodes (ENs), low-entry networking (LEN) nodes and PU 2.0. It also provides full DLUR support to allow dependent PU and LU traffic to flow over the APPN network to SNA data hosts.

	Cisco IOS Bridging and IBM Networking Configuration Guide
78-11737-02		BC-233