User`s guide

Overview
Introduction 1-7
1.1.13 Switching Options
SmartSwitches provide 802.1Q switching or SecureFast Switching Virtual Network Services
between all of the front panel interfaces including any optional HSIM or VHSIM. In the 802.1Q
mode (the default mode of operation), the switch functions as an 802.1D switch until VLANs are
configured.
SecureFast switching and IEEE 802.1Q switching allow migration to Virtual Network
technologies without requiring the replacement of existing equipment.
1.1.14 Distributed Chassis Management
From a management perspective, the 6C105 SmartSwitch 6000 chassis can be viewed as a single
entity with a single IP address. Its systems management functions are distributed to all modules.
The chassis can be managed using a single IP address, or the modules can be managed separately
by individual IP addresses. When using a single IP address, system wide settings can be done from
the chassis menu in Local Management, while module settings are done by selecting the specific
module to be modified and changing the settings for that module.
1.1.15 Optional HSIMs and VHSIMs
The SmartSwitches provide a slot for an optional High Speed Interface Module (HSIM) or Very
High Speed Interface Module (VHSIM) for additional connectivity to various networking
technologies. Any exceptions to the HSIMs and VHSIMs that operate in the SmartSwitch modules
are listed in the Release Notes shipped with the SmartSwitch.
1.1.16 Standards Compatibility
The SmartSwitch modules are fully compliant with the IEEE 802.3, 802.3x, 802.3u, 802.1D, and
specifically 802.1Q standards. SmartSwitches provide IEEE 802.1D Spanning Tree Algorithm
(STA) support to enhance the overall reliability of the network and protect against “loop”
conditions.
SmartSwitches support a wide variety of industry standard MIBs including RFC 1213 (MIB II),
RFC 1757 (RMON), RFC 1493 (Bridge MIB), RFC 1354 (FIB MIB), and RFC 1190 (Path MTU
Discovery). A full suite of Cabletron Systems Enterprise MIBs provide a wide array of statistical
information to enhance troubleshooting.
For information about how to extract and compile individual MIBs, contact Cabletron Systems.