Linksys EtherFast® II Series

The RJ-45 Ports

The 10/100 Managed 24-Port GigaSwitch is equipped with twenty-four auto- sensing RJ-45 ports. These RJ-45 ports support network speeds of either 10Mbps or 100Mbps, and can operate in half- and full-duplex modes. Auto- sensing technology enables each port to automatically detect the speed of the device connected to it (10Mbps or 100Mbps), and adjust its speed and duplex accordingly.

To connect a device to a port, you will need to use a network cable. UTP Category 3 cable is acceptable for 10BaseT networks, however, if you are using 100BaseTX devices you will need to use UTP Category 5 (or better) cable. For more information on twisted-pair cabling, refer to the Twisted-Pair Cabling section on page 80.

The Gigabit Expansion Ports

The 10/100 Managed 24-Port GigaSwitch is equipped with two gigabit expansion ports, providing for the installation of one or two expansion mod- ules. These ports provide links to high-speed network segments or individual workstations at speeds of up to 1000Mbps (Gigabit Ethernet).

To establish a Gigabit Ethernet connection, you will need to install a SX or TX Gigabit expansion module and use fiber optic cabling. for more informa- tion on fiber optic cabling, refer to the Fiber Optic Cabling section on page 79.

The Console Port

The 10/100 Managed 24-Port GigaSwitch is equipped with a serial port labeled CONSOLE (located on the rear of the switch) that allows you to con- nect to a computer (for configuration purposes) using the provided serial cable.

10/100 Managed 24-Port GigaSwitch

Installing the GigaSwitch

Pre-Installation Considerations

Fast Ethernet Considerations

If you will be using the GigaSwitch for Fast Ethernet (100Mbps) applications, you must observe the following guidelines:

•The maximum UTP cabling length using Category 3 cable is 328 feet (100 meters).

Full-Duplex Considerations

As previously mentioned, the GigaSwitch provides full-duplex support for its RJ-45 ports. Full-duplex operation allows data to be sent and received simul- taneously, doubling a port’s potential data throughput.

If you will be using the GigaSwitch in full-duplex mode, the maximum UTP cable length using Category 5 cable is 328 feet (100meters).

Positioning the GigaSwitch

Before you choose a location for the GigaSwitch, observe the following guidelines:

•Keep cabling away from sources of electrical noise, power lines, and fluorescent lighting fixtures.

•Position the GigaSwitch away from water and moisture sources.

•To ensure adequate air flow around the GigaSwitch, be sure to provide a minimum of one inch (25mm) clearance.

•Do not stack free-standing GigaSwitches more than four units high.

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Linksys EG24M manual Installing the GigaSwitch, Fast Ethernet Considerations, Full-Duplex Considerations
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EG24M specifications

The Linksys EG24M is a powerful and versatile network switch that caters to the needs of both small and medium-sized businesses. With its robust features and reliable performance, the EG24M has established itself as a go-to choice for enhancing network connectivity in diverse environments.

At the heart of the Linksys EG24M are 24 Ethernet ports, all of which support Gigabit speed. This allows for rapid data transfer rates, making it ideal for bandwidth-intensive applications such as video streaming, online gaming, and large file transfers. All ports are auto-sensing and configure themselves automatically to the speed of connected devices, optimizing performance without the need for manual configurations.

One of the standout features of the EG24M is its support for Power over Ethernet (PoE). This technology enables the switch to deliver electrical power along with data over standard Ethernet cables, eliminating the need for additional power supplies for PoE-enabled devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points. This simplifies installation and reduces clutter, allowing for flexible deployments in various environments.

The Linksys EG24M also incorporates advanced Layer 2 switching capabilities. It supports features such as VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), allowing network segmentation to enhance security and traffic management. This is particularly beneficial in larger networks where different departments or functions require isolated communication channels. Additionally, the switch supports Quality of Service (QoS) features, enabling prioritization of critical network traffic to ensure smooth performance for essential applications.

Security is another key aspect of the Linksys EG24M. It has built-in features to protect the network against unauthorized access, ensuring that sensitive data remains secure. The switch also supports storm control and broadcast control to mitigate network congestion and enhance overall performance.

In terms of design, the EG24M features a compact and robust form factor, which makes it suitable for mounting in standard racks or desktop environments. Its fanless design ensures silent operation, making it ideal for office use where noise can be a distraction.

In conclusion, the Linksys EG24M is an efficient and reliable network switch that combines high-speed connectivity with advanced features like PoE, VLAN support, and enhanced security. Its design and capabilities make it a valuable asset for any business looking to improve its network infrastructure. With Linksys backing its technology, the EG24M is poised to deliver exceptional performance and reliability for diverse networking needs.
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