IBM Nortel Networks L2/3, Manual

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Nortel Networks L2/3 Ethernet Switch Module for IBM
Eserver
BladeCenter
At Layer 3, special configurations of Virtual Router Redundancy Protocol (VRRP) allow all
switches in the VRRP group to concurrently process traffic by using multiple instances of
VRRP. Such configurations enable maximum switch performance while also ensuring
seamless failover in the unlikely event of a failure. VRRP Hot Standby is also supported to
enable effective use of NIC Teaming in Layer 3 network topologies much as Trunk Failover
facilitates HA designs with NIC Teaming at Layer 2.
3.2 Value proposition
This section discusses the value of using the Nortel Networks Layer 2/3 Copper and Fiber
GbE Switch Modules for IBM
Eserver
BladeCenter for your IBM
Eserver
BladeCenter.
Product strength
The product provides strengths such as:
򐂰 Provides full interoperability into existing Nortel and Cisco data centers with the
BladeCenter integrated GbE switch module.
򐂰 Integrates Nortel networking capabilities to reduce data center complexity and increases
networking manageability and availability.
򐂰 Leverages the leadership capabilities BladeCenter Alliance Partners to provide the most
technological choices.
Leadership features and function
The leadership features and function include:
򐂰
IBM
Eserver
BladeCenter delivers with the Nortel GbESM, full Layer 2 switching and
Layer 3 switching (routing) functionality as well as Layer 4 filtering and related services.
򐂰 The switch module runs Alteon Operating System and appears as any other product from
Nortel's Alteon product line to the data center’s network management tools. In addition,
Nortel is pursuing a unified command line syntax across its data products, known as the
NNCLI (Nortel Networks CLI), which will be available on the L2-3 switch late in 2005.
Competitive advantage
The product delivers a competitive advantage by delivering:
򐂰 Full integration of Ethernet switching, reducing infrastructure complexity
򐂰 Six external copper or fiber option
򐂰 Upgrade path to full Layer 4-7 services
򐂰 Price leadership