Cisco WS-C3550-12G Software Configuration Manual page 35

Overview
This chapter provides these topics about the Catalyst 3550 multilayer switch software:
Features, page 1-1
•
Management Options, page 1-5
•
Network Configuration Examples, page 1-7
•
Features
The Catalyst 3550 software supports the hardware listed in the release notes. These sections describe the
features supported in this release.
Note Layer 3 (routing) features require that you have the enhanced multilayer software image installed on
your switch. All Catalyst 3550 Gigabit Ethernet switches ship with the enhanced multilayer software
image (EMI) installed. Catalyst 3550 Fast Ethernet switches can be shipped with either the standard
multilayer software image (SMI) or EMI pre-installed. You can order the Enhanced Multilayer Software
Image Upgrade kit to upgrade Catalyst 3550 Fast Ethernet switches from running the SMI to the EMI.
Table 1-1 Features
Ease of Use and Ease of Deployment
Cluster Management Suite (CMS) software for simplifying switch and switch cluster management through a web
•
browser, such as Netscape Communicator or Microsoft Internet Explorer, from anywhere in your intranet
Switch clustering technology used with CMS, for
•
Unified configuration, monitoring, authentication, and software upgrade of multiple switches (refer to the release
–
notes for a list of eligible cluster members).
Automatic discovery of candidate switches and creation of clusters of up to 16 switches that can be managed through
–
a single IP address.
Extended discovery of cluster candidates that are not directly connected to the command switch.
–
Hot Standby Router Protocol (HSRP) for command-switch redundancy (requires the enhanced multilayer software
•
image).
See the "Advantages of Using CMS and Clustering Switches" section on page
Note
CMS, cluster hardware, software, and browser requirements.
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C H A P T E R
1-6. Refer to the release notes for the
Catalyst 3550 Multilayer Switch Software Configuration Guide
1
1-1