Chapter 3

Chapter 3:

Installation

Overview

This chapter will explain how to connect network devices to the Switch. The following diagram shows a typical network configuration.

Cable/DSL

 

 

Uplink via Fiber to

Internet Modem Router

Wireless Access Point

Server

Switch

10/100/1000 10/100 Desktop Notebook

Typical Network Configuration for the SLM248G4S

When you connect your network devices, make sure you do not exceed the maximum cabling distances, which are listed in the following table:

Maximum Cabling Distances

From

To

Maximum Distance

 

 

 

Switch

Switch or Hub

100 meters (328 feet)

Hub†

Hub

5 meters (16.4 feet)

Switch or Hub†

Computer

100 meters (328 feet)

 

 

 

A hub refers to any type of 100 Mbps hub. A 10 Mbps hub connected to another 10 Mbps hub can span up to 100 meters (328 feet).

Installation

Pre-Installation Considerations

Fast Ethernet Considerations

If you are using the Switch for Fast Ethernet (100 Mbps) applications, you must observe the following guidelines:

Full-Duplex Considerations

The Switch provides full-duplex support for its RJ-45 ports. Full-duplex operation allows data to be sent and received simultaneously, doubling a port’s potential data throughput. If you will be using the Switch in full-duplex mode, the maximum cable length using Category 5 cable is 328 feet (100 meters).

1000BASE-T Cable Requirements

All Category 5 UTP cables that are used for 100BASE-TX connections should also work for 1000BASE-T, providing that all four wire pairs are connected. However, it is recommended that for all critical connections, or any new cable installations, Category 5e (enhanced Category

5)or Category 6 cable should be used. The Category

5e specification includes test parameters that are only recommendations for Category 5. Therefore, the first step in preparing existing Category 5 cabling for running 1000BASE-T is a simple test of the cable installation to be sure that it complies with the IEEE 802.3ab standards.

Positioning the Switch

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

Make sure that the Switch is accessible and that the cables can be connected easily.

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

Position the Switch away from water and moisture sources.

To ensure adequate air flow around the Switch, be sure to provide a minimum clearance of two inches (50 mm).

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

Placement Options

There are two ways to physically install the Switch, either set the Switch on its four rubber feet for desktop placement or mount the switch in a standard-sized, 19-inch wide, 1U- high rack for rack-mount placement.

24/48-Port 10/100 + 4-Port Gigabit Resilient Clustering Smart Switch with 2 Combo SFPs

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Linksys SLM224G4S manual Chapter Installation, Overview, Pre-Installation Considerations, Placement Options

SLM224G4S specifications

The Linksys SLM224G4S is a sophisticated Layer 2 managed switch designed for businesses and institutions that demand high performance, reliability, and advanced networking features. This model stands out due to its blend of robustness and manageability, making it ideal for expanding networks.

One of the primary features of the SLM224G4S is its 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, allowing for high-speed data transfers essential for bandwidth-intensive applications. Supporting auto-negotiation, these ports can detect the capabilities of connected devices and configure themselves accordingly, ensuring optimal performance without manual intervention. With four additional shared Gigabit SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable) ports, this switch provides flexibility in network design and enhances scalability.

The SLM224G4S supports VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) capabilities, which can segment network traffic to improve security and performance. This is particularly useful in environments where different departments or teams require distinct network segments for operational efficiency. By implementing VLANs, organizations can enhance their network management while isolating sensitive information from potential threats.

Quality of Service (QoS) is another critical technology integrated into the SLM224G4S. It prioritizes network traffic, ensuring that critical applications receive the bandwidth they need for optimal performance. This is particularly important for VoIP and video conferencing applications, where latency and jitter can significantly impact user experience.

The switch also features advanced Layer 2 management functionalities, including SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol), allowing IT administrators to monitor network performance and quickly troubleshoot issues. The embedded web-based management interface makes configuration straightforward, enabling quick adjustments to settings without deep networking knowledge.

Security is a paramount consideration in today’s networking landscape. The SLM224G4S provides robust security features, including port security that limits the number of MAC addresses allowed on a port, reducing the risk of unauthorized access. Moreover, it supports802.1X port-based authentication, ensuring that only authenticated devices can connect to the network.

In summary, the Linksys SLM224G4S managed switch boasts features such as 24 Gigabit Ethernet ports, VLAN support, QoS, SNMP management, and advanced security protocols. These characteristics make it an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance their network's performance, safety, and reliability, paving the way for seamless connectivity in today’s digital age.