Installation Guide - SMC

Introduction to Switching
CHAPTER 2
NETWORK PLANNING
A network switch allows simultaneous transmission of multiple packets via
non-crossbar switching. This means that it can partition a network more
efficiently than bridges or routers. The switch has, therefore, been
recognized as one of the most important building blocks for today’s
networking technology.
When performance bottlenecks are caused by congestion at the network
access point (such as the network card for a high-volume file server), the
device experiencing congestion (server or power user) can be attached
directly to a switched port. And, by using full-duplex mode, the bandwidth
to the end-user can be doubled to maximize throughput.
A switch can be easily configured in any Ethernet network to significantly
boost bandwidth while using conventional cabling and network cards.
Application Examples
VDSL provides significant savings on network installation, equipment and
service fees. Internet services operate over existing phone cabling and a
minimal amount of network equipment. The only changes require
installing a VDSL CPE for each client, and a VDSL switch in the basement
or wiring closet. Internet service can then be provided over a direct Ethernet
connection from your ISP. For non-commercial environments, you can run
the switch through a broadband router at the customer’s site. This will
allow you to use a single-user account and ISP sharing to significantly
reduce network access charges.
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