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About This Document
Scope FASTPATH software encompasses both hardware and software support. The
software is partitioned to run in the following processors:
◆ CPU
This code runs the networking device management portfolio and controls the
overall networking device hardware. It also assists in frame forwarding, as
needed and specified. This code is designed to run on multiple platforms
with minimal changes from platform to platform.
◆ Networking device processor
This code does the majority of the packet switching, usually at wire speed.
This code is platform-dependent, and substantial changes might exist across
products.
Product Concept Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet switching continues to evolve from high-end
backbone applications to desktop switching applications. The price of the
technology continues to decline, while performance and feature sets continue to
improve. Devices that are capable of switching Layers 2, 3, and 4 are
increasingly in demand. FASTPATH software provides a flexible solution to
these ever-increasing needs.
The exact functionality provided by each networking device on which the
FASTPATH software base runs varies depending upon the platform and
requirements of the FASTPATH software.
FASTPATH software includes a set of comprehensive management functions for
managing both FASTPATH software and the network. You can manage the
FASTPATH software by using one of the following two methods:
◆ Command-Line Interface (CLI)
◆ Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP)
Each of the FASTPATH management methods enables you to configure, manage,
and control the software locally or remotely using in-band or out-of-band
mechanisms. Management is standards-based, with configuration parameters and
a private Management Information Base (MIB) providing control for functions
not completely specified in the MIBs.
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