Instant EtherFast ® Series

Tips on Switching Your Network

Here are some of the ways your new EtherFast 10/100 Switch can help you optimize your network speed.

• Speed up Nodes From Your 10BaseT Network

In a 10BaseT network, connect your hubs, file servers and key users such as managers and network administrators directly to your Switch to channel dedi- cated bandwidth in full duplex mode to each station. The Switch can com- municate with all its connections simultaneously, whereas a hub can only communicate with one workstation at a time, in half duplex transfer mode.

• Conserving Bandwidth with 10Mbps & 100Mbps Segments

10BaseT and 100BaseTX hardware are not readily compatible, but your 10/100 Switch can designate network segments of different speeds. This allows you to run one 10mbps segment to serve users without a need for con- siderable speed, and a faster 100mbps segment devoted to users who depend heavily on graphics, multimedia, database, or other speed-intensive applica- tions. With switched segmentation, your 100mbps users will not be slowed down by the users on the 10mbps segment.

• Run 10Mbps Peripherals in Your Fast Ethernet Network

Most of the network peripherals in place today run at 10mbps, since 10BaseT has been the standard network speed to date. These peripherals, designed to operate at 10mbps, cannot readily communicate with 100BaseTX equipment. A 10mbps interface is also required for cable and DSL connections, which are quickly becoming very popular ways to access the Internet. Your 10/100 Switch provides your 10BaseT equipment and cable and DSL lines with a 10Mbps interface while still running your Fast Ethernet devices at 100mbps.

• Strengthen Data Transfers Through Signal Regeneration

Your Switch functions as a repeater, which regenerates data signals as they pass through it. This feature acts as a safeguard to deter data loss and ensure that transmissions arrive at their destination intact. Switches positioned between hubs can preserve your data’s integrity and eliminate your need to buy and use repeaters in your Fast Ethernet network.

EtherFast 10/100 Autosensing Switches

About Fast Ethernet

History of Fast Ethernet

Standard Ethernet has been the most popular networking technology during this past decade, with a maximum data throughput of 10Mbps. But the Ethernet standard has fallen out of favor as today’s massive graphics, multi- media, and other data-intensive applications have magnified the problem of lagging network performance.

Fast Ethernet now dominates as the most viable and economical solution to resolve the problem of network speed over all other market alternatives. Capable of sending and receiving data at 100 Mbps, its bandwidth more than accommodates even the most intensive real-time applications.

Also known as 100BaseTX, Fast Ethernet supports high speed signaling and gives users an efficient and affordable solution for upgrading their present network to the upcoming standard speed of 100Mbps. 100BaseTX data pack- et lengths and formats are transmitted over two pairs of Category 5 UTP cabling, just like the 10BaseT system. It uses identical data error control and management information as 10BaseT transmissions as well.

Because Fast Ethernet is based on similar technology to standard Ethernet, the issue of migrating from 10Mbps to the higher Fast Ethernet speed requires virtually no effort with the right piece of equipment. All it takes is your EtherFast Autosensing Switch to coordinate your network hardware, and you’re ready to run a top-notch system.

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Linksys EZXS88W, EZXS55W manual About Fast Ethernet, Tips on Switching Your Network, History of Fast Ethernet
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EZXS88W, EZXS55W specifications

The Linksys FESWSK05 v3 and the EZXS55W are both notable pieces of networking hardware designed to enhance connectivity in various environments, from small businesses to homes. These Ethernet switches offer crucial features that facilitate efficient data transfer and network management.

The Linksys FESWSK05 v3 is a 5-port Fast Ethernet switch, utilizing a non-blocking architecture that allows for full wire-speed performance. Each port supports 10/100Mbps connections, making it a versatile choice for environments requiring high-speed data transfer. The switch is designed with ease of use in mind; it features a plug-and-play setup, eliminating the need for complex configuration. This makes it suitable for users of all technical levels. Furthermore, it includes auto-sensing technology that detects the speed of connected devices and automatically adjusts to ensure optimal alignment.

The EZXS55W, on the other hand, is a smart switch with features that cater to growing networking demands. It also supports 5 ports, with similar 10/100Mbps capabilities, but offers additional functionalities, such as a built-in web management interface. This allows for advanced features like VLAN support and Quality of Service (QoS). These capabilities enable users to prioritize traffic for bandwidth-sensitive applications such as VoIP and video conferencing, ensuring a stable and reliable connection.

Both models support Auto-MDI/MDI-X functionality, which simplifies installation by automatically detecting and configuring the type of connection. This is particularly useful for network administrators managing multiple connections without the need for crossover cables. Additionally, they are equipped with IEEE 802.3, 802.3u, and 802.3x standards compliance, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices.

In terms of physical characteristics, the Linksys switches are compact and designed for desktop or wall-mounted installation, making them suitable for space-constrained environments. Their fanless design ensures silent operation, which is ideal for both home and office settings.

Overall, the Linksys FESWSK05 v3 and EZXS55W are excellent choices for users seeking reliable, efficient, and straightforward networking solutions. With their robust feature set and user-friendly design, they provide the necessary foundation for a well-functioning network, catering to the demands of modern connectivity. Whether for home use or in a small office, these switches deliver performance and reliability that users can count on.
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