Switch Management and Operating Concepts

You can configure forwarding rules for the following:

•MAC address aging

•MAC address forwarding

•IP address to a specified gateway

•IP address to a specified MAC address

MAC Address Aging Time

The aging time affects the learning process of the switch. Dynamic forwarding table entries, which are made up of the source and destination MAC addresses and their associated port numbers, are deleted from the table if they are not accessed within the aging time.

The aging time can be 300—1,000,000 seconds with a default value of 300 seconds. A very long aging time can result in dynamic forwarding table entries that are out-of-date or no longer exist. This may cause incorrect packet forwarding decisions by the switch.

If the aging time is too short, however, many entries may be aged out too soon. This will result in a high percentage of received packets whose source addresses cannot be found in the forwarding table, in which case the switch will broadcast the packet to all ports, negating many of the benefits of having a switch.

Static forwarding entries are not affected by the aging time.

The switch has 8 KB for MAC address caching, which allows the switch to cache over 8,000 MAC addresses.

MAC Address Forwarding

The switch allows you to configure how unicast and multicast packets are forwarded.

•For unicast packets, you specify the MAC address and then either select the port that they will be forwarded to or have them dropped (called “BlackHole”).

•For multicast packets, you specify the MAC address and then select the ports they can be forwarded to.

Storm Control

You can also set thresholds to control broadcast and multicast storms. When the threshold is exceeded, the switch drops the multicast or broadcast traffic. When traffic levels drop below the threshold, the switch resumes forwarding the traffic again.

The thresholds are applied to all Ethernet ports and cannot be set for individual ports. The threshold specifies in thousands the number of broadcast or multicast packets per second a port can receive before triggering a storm control response. The possible range is 0 K— 255 K packets per second. This threshold can be configured to apply to broadcast packets, to multicast packets, or to both.

Intel® NetStructure™ ZT 8101 10/100 Ethernet Switch User’s Manual

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Intel ZT 8101 10/100 user manual MAC Address Aging Time, MAC Address Forwarding, Storm Control
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ZT 8101 10/100 specifications

The Intel ZT 8101 10/100 is a highly regarded network interface controller designed for efficient data communication in both home and enterprise environments. This versatile chip offers robust support for various networking technologies, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

One of the most significant features of the Intel ZT 8101 is its capability to operate at both 10 Mbps and 100 Mbps, allowing for seamless integration into existing networks. This dual-speed functionality ensures that users can enjoy the benefits of faster data transfer rates while still maintaining compatibility with legacy hardware. The device automatically detects the network speed, facilitating a plug-and-play experience that minimizes user intervention.

The Intel ZT 8101 utilizes advanced features such as full-duplex support, which enables simultaneous data transmission and reception. This capability significantly enhances network efficiency and maximizes throughput, making it ideal for environments with high data traffic. Moreover, the chip employs sophisticated packet processing algorithms to prioritize data, reducing latency and ensuring smoother communication.

In terms of power efficiency, the Intel ZT 8101 is designed to consume minimal power, making it a suitable choice for energy-conscious applications. Its low power consumption allows for more efficient operations, contributing to overall system stability and longevity. Additionally, it incorporates power management features that can dynamically adjust the power usage based on network demand.

Another notable characteristic is the integration of hardware-based flow control, which helps prevent data packet loss during high-utilization periods. This capability is essential for maintaining the integrity of data transmission in busy network environments. The chip’s robust error detection and correction mechanisms further enhance data reliability, minimizing the chances of transmission errors.

The Intel ZT 8101 supports various network standards, including IEEE 802.3 and IEEE 802.3u, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of Ethernet devices. Its flexibility makes it an excellent choice for network upgrades, expansions, or new installations, allowing users to tailor their network infrastructure according to specific needs.

In summary, the Intel ZT 8101 10/100 network interface controller stands out for its dual-speed support, energy efficiency, and advanced networking features. Whether for home users looking to improve their network performance or businesses seeking reliable data communication solutions, the ZT 8101 represents a compelling choice that combines technology, reliability, and efficiency. As network demands continue to evolve, this Intel chip remains a fundamental component in many networking scenarios.
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