Cabletron Systems Cabletron BRIM-F6, Networking Manual

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3-1
Chapter 3
The Workgroup Approach
This chapter describes the basic operation and design of stackable and standalone devices and the
methods used to meet common networking needs with these devices.
Standalone and stackable networking devices are specialized and important parts
of any end-to-end network design strategy. Understanding the design philosophy
and product evolution of these products can greatly aid a Network Designer in
determining where, and to what extent to implement standalone and stackable
devices in a new or existing network.
Standalones
A standalone device is one which, as the name implies, “stands alone” in the
network. A standalone device does not rely on any other network device to
operate, nor does it provide for the operation of other devices itself. This is a
distinct difference from networking devices such as modular networking chassis,
which require combinations of discrete modules be plugged into them for their
own operation.