Local area network (LAN) switches should automatically be in your network infrastructure. They are the heart and soul of a network. Without a network LAN switch, you experience bottlenecks, which can significantly slow down your network.

LAN switches use Ethernet, which is based on wiring and signaling standards, to transmit data. Ethernet technology identifies wiring and signaling standards. Depending on these wiring and signaling standards, data transmits at different speeds. The fastest speed on the market is gigabit Ethernet. Data transmits at 1 Gbps with gigabit Ethernet. If you’re looking for the fastest speed, buy gigabit Ethernet LAN switching products.

Consider using LAN switches for the following reasons:

1. LAN networking switches make your network faster.
2. A network LAN switch improves your network.
3. A local area network switch provides security for your network.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Accelerate your network with LAN networking switches

Using LAN switches prevents bottlenecks from occurring in your network infrastructure. Unlike hubs, local area network (LAN) switches are regarded as 'smart' or 'intelligent' network devices. A LAN network switch interprets data and knows where it needs to send the information. This makes your network runs smoothly and efficiently.

I recommend: Cisco makes a series of switches, so you will have to see which one fits your business. This series supports Fast Ethernet and gigabit Ethernet technologies. Foundry Networks also makes LAN switches. If you're interested in purchasing gigabit Ethernet switches, check them out.

Reduce the bottleneck in your network with LAN switches

Using LAN switches prevents bottlenecks because, unlike hubs, local area network (LAN) switches are regarded as 'smart' or 'intelligent' network devices. A LAN network switch interprets data and knows where it needs to send the information. This helps your network runs smoothly and efficiently.

I recommend: Extreme Networks’ Summit X450 series doesn’t require any system reboot for its application upgrades or recoveries. Check out 3Com’s website for a series of switches. Like Extreme Networks, 3Com makes switches that support Fast Ethernet and gigabit Ethernet technologies.

Use a local area network switch to create VLANs

Having VLANs (virtual local area networks) in your network enable you to have better security and performance. VLANs are not physical LAN switches; rather, they're created by software. Creating VLANs segment your network. Many companies separate the network based on the job function or department. So for example, your sales department will be on one VLAN while your engineering department will be on another. If your network is growing and getting more complex, consider implementing VLANs in your network infrastructure. VLANs will save you money and physical space.

I recommend: Check out the PLD Project website on VLAN configuration. Liniac’s website at the University of Pennsylvania also is a valuable resource if you have the Force10 E1200 switch.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  While some companies are using gigabit Ethernet LAN switching products, others are using 10 gigabit Ethernet products. As with other aspects of the field, the technology is changing and it's important to keep abreast of changes and determine what's best for your firm.