High-Speed Link Between Switches - NETGEAR SW502 Installation Manual

Installation Guide for the Model SW502 and Model SW507 Ethernet Switches

High-speed Link between Switches

The most common LAN implementations use a combination of standard repeater hubs, bridges, and
routers. The bridges and routers become obstacles, reducing overall network throughput. Switching to
higher-speed LANs, such as token ring or FDDI is not a good decision for most users. In addition to
being expensive, you must replace all existing Ethernet cables and adapter cards, restructure your
network, and implement more expensive administration procedures. By using switches to connect
LAN segments, you retain a cohesive LAN structure in which any node can communicate with any
other node in the network. For network applications that require routers, as when interconnecting
different network types, attaching switches directly to a router can improve overall Ethernet
performance. Figure 5-4 illustrates the NETGEAR Model EN516 10BASE-T hubs integrated with
two Model SW507 switches.
Figure 5-4. High-speed link between switches
5-6 Configuration Examples