Appendix A

About Gigabit Ethernet and Fiber Optic Cabling

Appendix A:

About Gigabit Ethernet

and Fiber Optic Cabling

Gigabit Ethernet

Gigabit Ethernet runs at speeds of 1Gbps (Gigabit per second), ten times faster than 100Mbps Fast Ethernet, but it still integrates seamlessly with 100Mbps Fast Ethernet hardware. Users can connect Gigabit Ethernet hardware with either fiber optic cabling or copper Category 5e cabling, with fiber optics more suited for network backbones. As the Gigabit standard gradually integrates into existing networks, current computer applications will enjoy faster access time for network data, hardware, and Internet connections.

Fiber Optic Cabling

Fiber optic cabling is made from flexible, optically efficient strands of glass and coated with a layer of rubber tubing, fiber optics use photons of light instead of electrons to send and receive data. Although fiber is physically capable of carrying terabits of data per second, the signaling hardware currently on the market can handle no more than a few gigabits of data per second.

Fiber cables come with two main connector types. The most commonly used fiber optic cable is multi-mode fiber cable (MMF), with a 62.5 micron fiber optic core. Single‑mode fiber cabling is somewhat more efficient than multi-mode but far more expensive, due to its smaller optic core that helps retain the intensity of traveling light signals. A fiber connection always require two fiber cables: one transmits data, and the other receives it.

Each fiber optic cable is tipped with a connector that fits into a fiber port on a network adapter, hub, or switch. In the USA, most cables use a square SC connector that slides and locks into place when plugged into a port or connected to another cable. In Europe, the round ST connector is more prevalent.

For Gigabit Ethernet, you must use the Linksys MGBT1, MGBSX1, or MGBLH1 miniGBIC modules with the Linksys Gigabit Switches. The MGBSX1 and the MGBLH1 require fiber cabling with LC connectors, and the MGBT1 requires a Category 5e Ethernet cable with an RJ-45 connector.

For Fast Ethernet, you must use the MFEFX1 (100BASE-FX) or MFELX1 (100BASE-LX) SFP transceivers.

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

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Linksys SLM224G4S manual Appendix a About Gigabit Ethernet Fiber Optic Cabling
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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.
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