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10G Ethernet workgroup switch
Enabling gigabit to the desktop - or to lots of desktops - is the name of the game for Extreme Networks' new Summit 40048t, a 10G Ethernet workgroup switch.
In Network World's exclusive test, we pushed more than 70 million packets per second through the S400. Results were generally good.The switch delivered low, consistent delay under heavy loads, and it offers a long list of features, including 802. IX authentication for security
On the downside, the S400's optional 10G Ethernet module is a bit pricey for a workgroup switch, although at about $4,000 per 10G Ethernet port (plus optics) it's still competitive. Also, the S400 posted subpar numbers in some tests of jumbo frames. On balance, though, the S400 is a more-than-capable performer: In fact, it's the fastest wiring closet switch we've tested.
The S400 fits in IU and offers 48 10/100/1000M bit/sec copper ports, with an optional module for two 1OG Ethernet interfaces. Features include I support for major routing protocols, IPv4 multicast and up to 4,096 virtual LANs. External redundant power is also an option.
Performance tests
We conducted separate tests of the S400's 1OG Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet handling. Because the 1OG Ethernet interfaces fit in an optional module, users can buy the switch with 10/100/1000 copper interfaces and add 1OG Ethernet later.
Our 1OG Ethernet tests measured how quickly the S400 could move traffic between 1OG Ethernet uplink ports and Gigabit Ethernet downlink (edge) ports. We configured a Spirent Communications SmartBits traffic generator/analyzer to send test frames to the S400's uplink and downlink ports
In a nutshell, the S400 delivered linerate throughput in all the 1OG Ethernet test cases we tried (see graphic, right). These included baseline tests at Layer 2 and Layer 3 and tests with one and two 1OG Ethernet interfaces exchanging traffic with 10 and 20 edge gigabit interfaces. The S400 didn't drop a single frame...