Modular computer network switch
A modular computer network switch is a type of network switch which can be modified using field-replaceable units after they are acquired, this units, often referred to as blades, can add more ports, bandwidth, and capabilities to a switch.[1] These blades can usually be heterogenous, and this allows for a network based on multiple different protocols and cable types.[2] Blades can typically be configured in a parallel or failover configuration, which can allow for higher bandwidth, or redundancy in the event of failure.[2] Modular switches also typically support hot-swap of switch modules,[3] this can be very important in zero-downtime implementations, where redundancy of all functions is critical. Modular switches also support additional line cards which can provide new functions to the switch that would previously have been unavailable, such as a firewall.[4] An example of a modular computer network switch is the Cisco Catalyst 6500, which can be configured with up to 13 slots, and supports connections from RJ45 to QSFP+.
Modular switches also typically run in a multilayer network configuration, and do not function as a single unified switch, but rather a self contained switch network. This allows for inter-compatibility of modules and protocols, but can lead to counterintuitive bandwidth and latency profiles in a switch.
See also
- Network switch
- Cisco Catalyst 6500
- Stackable switch
References
- ↑ "Different Types of Network Switches" (in en). https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/small-business/resource-center/networking/understanding-the-different-types-of-network-switches.html.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Modular switches: advantages and disadvantages" (in en-US). 2021-02-13. https://news.networktigers.com/industry-news/modular-switches-advantages-and-disadvantages/.
- ↑ "Understanding the Different Types of Network Switches & Ethernet Switches". https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/solutions/small-business/resource-center/networking/understanding-the-different-types-of-network-switches.html. Retrieved 18 March 2019.
- ↑ "Cisco Catalyst 9400 Supervisor Engine-1". https://www.vtkt.ru/upload/iblock/6d7/C9400-SUP-1_DS.pdf. Retrieved 18 March 2019.
Further reading
- Examples of Network Equipment, University of Aberdeen Internet Communications Engineering Course, 2019.
- Introducing Backpack: Our second-generation modular open switch, Facebook Backpack introduction
 |
