Linksys EF4124 User Guide - Page 7

Chapter 2 Tips on Switching Your Network Here are some of the ways an Ethernet Switch can help you optimize your network speed. Speed up Nodes From Your 10BaseT Network In a 10BaseT network, connect your hubs, file servers and key users such as managers and network administrators directly to an Ethernet Switch to channel dedicated bandwidth in full duplex mode to each station. An Ethernet Switch can communicate with all its connections simultaneously. Conserving Bandwidth with 10Mbps & 100Mbps Segments 10BaseT and 100BaseTX hardware are not readily compatible, but an Ethernet Switch can designate network segments of different speeds. This allows you to run one 10Mbps segment to serve users without a need for considerable speed, and a faster 100Mbps segment devoted to users who depend heavily on multimedia, database, gaming, or other speed-intensive applications. With switched segmentation, your 100Mbps users will not lose efficiency because of the 10Mbps segment's transfer speed. Run 10Mbps Peripherals in Your Fast Ethernet Network Most of the network peripherals in place today run at 10Mbps, since 10BaseT has been the standard network speed to date. These peripherals, designed to operate at 10Mbps, cannot readily communicate with 100Mbps equipment. A 10Mbps interface is also required for cable and DSL connections, which are quickly becoming very popular. An Ethernet Switch gives your 10BaseT equipment and cable and DSL lines a 10Mbps interface while still running your Fast Ethernet equipment at 100Mbps. Strengthen Data Transfers Through Signal Regeneration An Etherfast Switch functions as a repeater, which regenerates data signals as they pass through it. This feature acts as a safeguard to deter data loss and ensure that transmissions arrive at their destination intact. Switches positioned between hubs can preserve your data's integrity and eliminate your need to buy and use repeaters in your Fast Ethernet network. EtherFast® 16-Port and 24-Port 10/100 Ethernet Switches Installation 4