MAKING NETWORK CONNECTIONS

Cable Labeling and Connection Records

When planning a network installation, it is essential to label the opposing ends of cables and to record where each cable is connected. Doing so will enable you to easily locate inter-connected devices, isolate faults and change your topology without need for unnecessary time consumption.

To best manage the physical implementations of your network, follow these guidelines:

Clearly label the opposing ends of each cable.

Using your building’s floor plans, draw a map of the location of all network-connected equipment. For each piece of equipment, identify the devices to which it is connected.

Note the length of each cable and the maximum cable length supported by the switch ports.

For ease of understanding, use a location-based key when assigning prefixes to your cable labeling.

Use sequential numbers for cables that originate from the same equipment.

Differentiate between racks by naming accordingly.

Label each separate piece of equipment.

Display a copy of your equipment map, including keys to all abbreviations at each equipment rack.

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SMC Networks SMC6724AL2 manual Cable Labeling and Connection Records

SMC6724AL2 specifications

The SMC Networks SMC6724AL2 is a high-performance Layer 2 managed switch that has been designed to cater to the needs of growing networks. It offers robust features, reliability, and advanced technologies that make it suitable for small to medium enterprises and advanced network infrastructures.

One of the standout features of the SMC6724AL2 is its 24 Ethernet ports, which provide excellent connectivity options. These ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds, ensuring that devices can communicate efficiently without bottlenecks. Additionally, the switch incorporates four SFP (Small Form-factors Pluggable) slots that offer flexibility for fiber optic connections, enabling long-distance data transmission and further enhancing the network's scalability.

The switch supports advanced Layer 2 features such as VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network), which allows for logical segmentation of networks, improving security and managing broadcast traffic. The powerful traffic management capabilities include Quality of Service (QoS), which prioritizes critical applications and ensures optimal performance for voice and video traffic.

To enhance network reliability, the SMC6724AL2 comes equipped with features such as Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), which combines multiple physical ports into a single logical link to increase the available bandwidth and provide redundancy. The switch also supports Spanning Tree Protocol (STP) and Rapid Spanning Tree Protocol (RSTP), which help to prevent network loops and ensure reliable data transfer.

User-friendly management options are another hallmark of the SMC6724AL2. It offers support for Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP), enabling administrators to monitor network status and performance effectively. The device can also be configured through a web-based interface, allowing for easy setup and management without the need for complex command-line operations.

In terms of security, the SMC6724AL2 provides features such as port security and access control lists (ACLs) to safeguard against unauthorized access and ensure data integrity. Its robust hardware comes with a metal chassis designed for durability, making it suitable for various environments.

In summary, the SMC Networks SMC6724AL2 is a versatile and powerful managed switch that meets the demands of modern networking, offering advanced features and technologies that ensure reliability, performance, and security for enterprises looking to optimize their network infrastructure.