3Com 5500 SI - Switch - Stackable, Configuration Manual

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4
XRN C
ONFIGURATION
This chapter covers the following topics:
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Introduction to XRN
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Configuring an XRN Fabric
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Fabric Configuration Example
Introduction to XRN
Several XRN Switches of the same model can be interconnected to create a “Fabric”,
in which each Switch is a unit. The ports used to interconnect all the units are called
Fabric ports, while the other ports that are used to connect the Fabric to users are
called user ports. In this way, you can increase ports and switching capability by
adding devices to the Fabric. In addition, reliability of the system will be improved
because the devices within the Fabric can backup each other. This feature brings you
many advantages:
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Realizes unified management of multiple devices. Only one connection and one IP
address are required to manage the entire Fabric. Therefore, management cost is
reduced.
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Enables you to purchase devices on demand and expand network capacity
smoothly. Protects your investment to the full extent during network upgrade.
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Ensures high reliability by N+1 redundancy, avoids single point failure, and lessens
service interruption.
Figure 17 Fabric Example
Fabric Topology Mapper (FTM) function can manage and maintain Fabric topology.
FTM on each unit exchanges information with other units, including unit ID, Fabric
name, and the authentication mode between units, by using a special kind of
protocol packets. It manages and maintains Fabric topology according to the acquired
information. For example, when a new device is connected to a Fabric, FTM will
determine whether it should establish a new Fabric with the device according to the
information.
Configuring an XRN
Fabric
FTM provides user interfaces. You can configure VLAN unit IDs, Fabric name, and the
authentication mode between units by using the command.
Fabric
Fabric port
user port
Fabric
Fabric port
user port