Table 3-1: Management Methods Comparison
Method
Ideal for configuring the switch
Web Browser
remotely
Compatible with all popular
browsers
Can be accessed from any
location
Most visually appealing
Communicates with switch
SNMP Agent
functions at the MIB level
Based on open standards
No IP address or subnet needed
Console
Text-based
Telnet functionality and
HyperTerminal built into Windows
95/98/NT/2000/ME/XP operating
systems
Secure
Web Management
The Managed Switch offers management features that allow users to manage
the Managed Switch from anywhere on the network through a standard browser
such as Microsoft Internet Explorer. After you set up your IP address for the
switch, you can access the Managed Switch's Web interface applications directly
in your Web browser by entering the IP address of the Managed Switch.
You can then use your Web browser to list and manage the Managed Switch
configuration parameters from one central location, just as if you were directly
connected to the Managed Switch's console port. Web Management requires
either Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0 or later, Safari or Mozilla Firefox 2.0 or later.
GE-DS-242-PoE Managed Ethernet Switch User Manual
Advantages
Chapter 3: Switch Management
Disadvantages
Security can be compromised
(hackers need only know the IP
address and subnet mask)
May encounter lag times on poor
connections
Requires SNMP manager software
Least visually appealing of all three
methods
Some settings require calculations
Security can be compromised
(hackers need only know the
community name)
Must be near switch or use dial-up
connection
Not convenient for remote users
Modem connection may prove to be
unreliable or slow
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