Datasheet

Data Sheet
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Customers can transparently upgrade the software feature set through Cisco IOS Software
activation. Software activation authorizes and enables the Cisco IOS Software feature sets. A
special file contained in the switch, called a license file, is examined by the Cisco IOS Software
when the switch is powered on. Cisco IOS Software activates the appropriate feature set based on
the license type. License types can be changed, or upgraded, to activate a different feature set.
Features and Benefits
Table 1 summarizes product features and benefits.
Table 1. Features and Benefits
Category
Features and Benefits
Ease of use and ease
of deployment
The VBS is self-managing and self-configuring. When switches are added or removed, the
master switch automatically loads the Cisco IOS Software version running on the VBS to the
new switch, loads the global configuration parameters, and updates all the routing tables to
reflect changes. Upgrades are applied universally and simultaneously to all members of the
VBS.
Ease-of-use features include the following:
●
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) autoconfiguration of multiple switches through
a boot server eases switch deployment.
●
Master configuration management helps ensure that all switches are automatically upgraded
when the master switch receives a new software version. Automatic software version
checking and updating help ensure that all switch members in the VBS have the same
software version.
●
Autonegotiation on all ports automatically selects half- or full-duplex transmission mode to
optimize bandwidth.
●
Dynamic Trunking Protocol (DTP) facilitates dynamic trunk configuration across all
switch ports.
●
Port Aggregation Protocol (PAgP) automates the creation of Cisco Fast EtherChannel
®
groups or Gigabit EtherChannel groups to link to another switch, router, or server.
●
Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP) allows the creation of Ethernet channeling with
devices that conform to IEEE 802.3ad. This feature is similar to Cisco EtherChannel
technology and PAgP. The Cisco Catalyst Blade Switch 3130 now supports LACP channels
to blade servers, thus doubling server bandwidth to the network.
●
Automatic media-dependent interface crossover (MDIX) automatically adjusts transmit and
receive pairs if an incorrect cable type (crossover or straight-through) is installed.