FS728TP Smart Switch Software User Manual

Port State – Displays the current STP state of a port. If enabled, the port state determines what forwarding action is taken on traffic. Possible port states are:

Forwarding – Indicates that STP is enabled on the port, and the port is forwarding packets based on the STP topology.

Disabled – Indicates that STP is currently disabled on the port. The port forwards traffic while learning MAC addresses.

Blocking – Indicates that the port is currently blocked and cannot forward traffic or learn MAC addresses. Blocking is displayed when STP is enabled.

Speed – Indicates the speed at which the port is operating.

Path Cost – Specifies the method used to assign default path cost to STP ports. The possible field values are:

Short – Specifies 1 through 65,535 range for port path cost. This is the default value.

Long – Specifies 1 through 200,000,000 range for port path cost. The default path cost assigned to an interface varies according to the selected method (Hello Time, Max Age, or Forward Delay).

Priority – Specifies the bridge priority value. When switches or bridges are running STP, each is assigned a priority. After exchanging Bridge Protocol Data Units (BPDUs), the device with the lowest priority value becomes the Root Bridge. The default value is 32768. The port priority value is provided in increments of 4096.

Network administrators can assign STP settings to specific interfaces using the Modify Spanning Tree Page. The Global LAGs section displays the STP information for Link Aggregated Groups.

To assign STP settings to an interface:

1. Click Switch > Spanning Tree and click an interface. The Modify Spanning Tree Page opens:

Configuring the Device Using Your Browser

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v2.0, November 2006

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NETGEAR FS728TP manual V2.0, November

FS728TP specifications

The NETGEAR FS728TP is a highly reliable and efficient network switch designed to meet the demands of businesses seeking to enhance their network capabilities. This switch is part of NETGEAR's ProSafe series, known for its robust features and performance-oriented design. With 24 Ethernet ports, the FS728TP allows for easy connectivity of multiple devices in a local area network (LAN).

One of the standout features of the FS728TP is its Power over Ethernet (PoE) functionality. It supports 802.3af PoE, which allows the switch to deliver power to connected devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and wireless access points through the same Ethernet cable used for data transmission. This simplifies installations and reduces the need for additional power outlets, making it an ideal solution for businesses looking to streamline their setup.

The FS728TP operates with a switching capacity of 56 Gbps, ensuring that data is transferred quickly and efficiently across the network. With a forward capacity of 41.7 Mbps per port, it can handle a wide variety of data-intensive applications, from video conferencing to large file transfers.

In terms of security, the FS728TP offers multiple VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) support, which allows network administrators to segment the network for better traffic management and enhanced security. This feature is particularly beneficial for organizations that need to separate sensitive data traffic from general user traffic, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access.

Additionally, the switch features advanced features like IGMP snooping which optimizes multicast traffic and improves bandwidth efficiency, and QoS (Quality of Service) settings that prioritize critical applications, ensuring seamless performance even during periods of high traffic.

The FS728TP is designed for ease of use, featuring a simple web-based management interface that allows administrators to configure settings and monitor network performance without requiring extensive technical expertise.

Built for durability and sustained performance, the FS728TP is an excellent choice for small to medium-sized businesses looking to invest in a scalable, secure, and efficient networking solution. With its combination of PoE capabilities, advanced networking features, and user-friendly management tools, this switch is poised to enhance any organization’s network infrastructure. Overall, the NETGEAR FS728TP stands as a reliable solution for today's dynamic networking environment.