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Catalyst 2900 Series XL and Catalyst 3500 Series XL Software Configuration Guide
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Chapter 1 Overview
Network Configuration Examples
Small to Medium-Sized Network Configuration
Figure 1-2 shows a configuration for a network that has up to 250 users. Users in this network require
e-mail, file-sharing, database, and Internet access.
You optimize network performance by placing workstations on the same logical segment as the servers
they access most often. This divides the network into smaller segments (or workgroups) and reduces the
amount of traffic that travels over a network backbone, thereby increasing the bandwidth available to
each user and improving server response time.
A network backbone is a high-bandwidth connection (such as Fast Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet) that
interconnects segments and network resources. It is required if numerous segments require access to the
servers. The Catalyst 2900 XL and Catalyst 3500 XL switches in this network are connected through a
GigaStack GBIC on each switch to form a 1-Gbps network backbone. This GigaStack can also be
configured as a switch cluster, with primary and secondary command switches for redundant cluster
management.
Workstations are connected directly to the 10/100 switch ports for their own 10- or 100-Mbps access to
network resources (such as web and mail servers). When a workstation is configured for full-duplex
operation, it receives up to 200 Mbps of dedicated bandwidth from the switch.
Servers are connected to the Gigabit module ports on the switches, allowing 1-Gbps throughput to users
when needed. When the switch and server ports are configured for full-duplex operation, the links
provide 2 Gbps of bandwidth. For networks that do not require Gigabit performance from a server,
connect the server to a Fast Ethernet or Fast EtherChannel switch port.
Connecting a router to a Fast Ethernet switch port provides multiple, simultaneous access to the Internet
through one line.
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