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Linksys EZXS88W v2 About Fast Ethernet, Tips on Switching Your Network, History of Fast Ethernet

Models: EZXS55W v2 EZXS88W v2

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Instant EtherFast® Series

Tips on Switching Your Network

Here are some of the ways your new EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Workgroup 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.

10/100 5-Port Workgroup Switch

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 Auto-Sensing Switch to coordinate your network hardware, and you’re ready to run a top-notch system.

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Linksys EZXS88W v2, EZXS55W v2 manual About Fast Ethernet, Tips on Switching Your Network, History of Fast Ethernet
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EZXS55W v2, EZXS88W v2 specifications

Linksys has a reputation for producing reliable networking products, and the EZXS88W v2 and EZXS55W v2 are no exceptions. These are high-performance 10/100 Mbps Ethernet switches designed for small office and home office environments. Both models provide a seamless transition to fast network speeds, offering a simple yet effective solution to expand network capabilities.

The Linksys EZXS88W v2 is an 8-port switch that allows users to connect multiple devices, including computers, printers, and servers, expanding the local area network efficiently. The EZXS55W v2, on the other hand, is a 5-port variant that serves well for smaller setups. Both switches boast a compact design, making them easy to integrate into a workspace without occupying too much physical space.

One of the standout features of these switches is their plug-and-play capability. This means that users can easily connect devices without needing to configure complex settings. Each port automatically detects the connected device type and adjusts accordingly, ensuring optimal transmission speeds and performance. This is particularly beneficial in a mixed network environment where different device types may be present.

Both models support Auto-MDI/MDI-X technology, eliminating the need for crossover cables. This feature automatically adjusts the switch's port configurations to accommodate straight-through or crossover cables, simplifying the installation process. Furthermore, the switches feature a total bandwidth capacity of 1.6 Gbps, ensuring that multiple devices can communicate simultaneously without bottlenecking.

Energy efficiency is another important characteristic of the Linksys EZXS88W v2 and EZXS55W v2. They comply with Energy Star standards, helping users to reduce their overall power consumption while maintaining high performance. This is particularly valuable in businesses looking to lower operational costs or reduce their carbon footprint.

In terms of durability, both models are built with quality components to withstand everyday usage. They feature metal housing that provides better heat dissipation and reliability over time. The integrated fanless design ensures silent operation, making them suitable for environments where noise levels need to be minimized.

In summary, the Linksys EZXS88W v2 and EZXS55W v2 are robust and user-friendly Ethernet switches that cater to various networking needs. With their plug-and-play functionality, Auto-MDI/MDI-X support, energy efficiency, and compact design, they offer excellent performance for both home and small office setups. Whether expanding a home network or building a small business infrastructure, these switches provide a dependable and cost-effective solution.