Instant EtherFast® Series

Getting to Know the Fast Ethernet Switched 10/100 Network In a Box

The EtherFast® 10/100 LAN Card

You will install one EtherFast® 10/100 LAN Card into each computer you wish to network.

The LAN Card’s LEDs

Link/Act The Link LED will illuminate when the LAN Card has been successfully connected to a network and flicker when data is being transmitted or received over the network.

100The 100 LED will illuminate when the LAN Card is operating at 100Mbps. If the 100 LED is not illuminated and the PC is powered on, the LAN Card is operating at 10Mbps.

The LAN Card’s RJ-45 Port

The RJ-45 Port is where you will connect your network cabling.

The EtherFast® 10/100 5-Port Workgroup Switch

Your network revolves around your switch. You cannot connect your comput- ers directly to one another. You must connect them through your switch.

The Switch’s LEDs

PWR

The Power LED will illuminate when the the switch is

 

receiving power.

Fast Ethernet Switched 10/100 Network In a Box

100The 100 LED will illuminate if the port is operating at

(per port)

100Mbps. The LED will be off if the port is running at

 

10Mbps.

LINK/ACT

The LINK/ACT LED will illuminate if the port has an

(per port)

active network connection. The LED will flicker if the port

 

is receiving or sending data.

FULL/COL

The FULL/COL LED will illuminate if the port is

(per port)

connected at 100Mbps. The LED will flicker if there are

 

collisions on that port

The Switch’s Ports

 

1-5

Ports 1-5 are where you will connect your PCs to the

 

switch. It is through these ports that network information is

 

exchanged.

Uplink

You can expand your network by connecting your swtich to

 

another switch, hub, router or Broadband modem through

 

the Uplink port. If the Uplink port is being used, the #5

 

port adjacent to it will become inactive, reducing the

 

switch’s operable ports from five to four.

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Linksys EZXS55W, FESWSK05 v3 manual EtherFast 10/100 LAN Card, EtherFast 10/100 5-Port Workgroup Switch, Per port, Uplink

EZXS55W, FESWSK05 v3 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.