Security Benefits of Managed Switches

Network Switch

A network switch allows computers to communicate with each other by passing data packets back and forth between them.

For example, if a computer wants to send a packet to another computer on its local area network (LAN). The network switch looks at the destination address in the packet and forwards it to the appropriate LAN interface card. If the destination address matches an entry in the switch’s forwarding table, the switch passes the packet to the corresponding output port. Otherwise, the switch drops the packet.

In addition to connecting different types of devices, network switches also allow users to connect to the Internet. The switch routes the request to the correct port and forwards the response back to the requesting computer.

Security Benefits:

Network switches support several security protocols including Secure Sockets Layer (SSL), Transport Layer Security (TLS), IPsec, and IEEE 802.1x. SSL/TLS provides secure communication over the Internet and within intranets. It encrypts all data sent across the Internet and uses public-key cryptography to verify the authenticity of remote servers. TLS extends SSL/TLS by adding encryption to HTTP connections. IPsec is used to protect IP communications. It encrypts the payload of data packets and authenticates the sender and receiver. IEEE 802.1x is used to authenticate users before allowing them access to the network. This protocol is commonly known as Wi-Fi Protected Access or WPA.

Switches can be configured to prevent unauthorized access to the network. For instance, you could configure your network switch to require users to enter a username and password before gaining access to the network. You could also set up a firewall to block certain ports so that only authorized users can gain access to the network.

Switches can also be configured to restrict traffic flow. For example, you might want to limit the amount of bandwidth available to one particular type of application such as streaming video. To do this, you would need to create a policy that specifies how much bandwidth should be allocated to each type of application.

Managed Switches:

With managed switches, you can easily manage the network traffic for your entire campus. You can also monitor and control access to your network from anywhere in the world using a web browser or mobile device.

The Cisco Catalyst 6500 Series Managed Switches are designed to provide centralized management of all devices on campus networks. They also include powerful security features such as IPSec VPN, WPA2 Enterprise, IEEE 802.11i, and RADIUS authentication.

The Cisco Catalyst 7600 Series Managed Switches deliver enhanced performance and scalability while maintaining the simplicity of the previous generation of switches. These switches have been optimized for voice applications and are ready to handle today’s most demanding VoIP deployments.

How does a Network Switch Benefits Campuses?

A network switch is also known as a router, or a hub/switch combo. A network switch connects devices on the same LAN (local area network) and enables them to talk to each other. Switches are often found in small offices, home offices, schools, libraries, and even large corporations. They are usually part of a larger network infrastructure, which includes routers, hubs, bridges, and firewalls.

A network switch has four main functions:

• Connecting multiple networks together
• Providing redundancy
• Monitoring network activity
• Controlling network traffic

The most common use of a network switch is to connect multiple computers into a single network. In this case, it acts as a central point where all the information flows between the connected devices.

The second function of a network switch is to provide redundancy. If any of the connected devices fail, the switch automatically takes over the role of the failed device.

The third function of a network switch involves monitoring network activity. A network switch monitors what is happening on its own network and notifies the administrator if there are any problems.

The fourth function of a network switch controls network traffic. When necessary, the switch blocks incoming and outgoing network traffic.

Smaller classrooms can take advantage of the managed switch

The new Managed Switch from Cisco is designed to provide a secure, reliable, and scalable solution that can be used in small to medium-sized classrooms. The Managed Switch provides the same features as the Catalyst 3560 SFP+ managed switch, including Layer 2/3 switching, VLAN support, 802.1Q Trunking, QoS, firewall, intrusion prevention system (IPS), and security services such as encryption and VPN. It also has an embedded wireless controller which enables it to operate as a wireless access point or bridge.

The Managed Switch supports up to 16 ports per unit and can scale from one port to over 1000 ports. It also includes a built-in power supply so there are no external power supplies required.

“The Managed Switch offers a cost-effective alternative to deploying multiple unmanaged switches,” said Paul D’Agostino, vice president of marketing at Cisco Systems.