Netgear FS750T FS750T Reference Manual - Page 3

CHAPTER 1: SWITCH MANAGEMENT OVERVIEW This chapter gives an overview of switch management, including the methods you can use to manage your NETGEAR Smart Switch series. Topics include Management Access Overview Management Access Overview Your NETGEAR Smart Switch contains software for viewing, changing, and monitoring the way it works. This management software is not required for the switch to work. You can use the 10/100 Mbps ports and the built-in Gigabit ports without using the management software. However, the management software allows you configure ports, VLAN and Trunking features and also improve the efficiency of the switch and, as a result, improve the overall performance of your network. The Switch gives you the flexibility to access and manage the switch using any of the following methods: • Smartwizard Discovery Utility program • Web browser interface After you power-up the switch for the first time, you can configure it using a utility program called Smartwizard Discovery or a Web browser. Please refer to the screenshots in following pages for Smartwizard Discovery Utility and Web Management GUI. Each of these management methods has advantages. Table 1-1 compares the two management methods. Table 1-1. Comparing Switch Management Methods Management Method Advantages Smartwizard Discovery Utility Web browser „ No IP address or subnet needed „ Show all switches on the network „ User-friendly interface „ Firmware upgradeable „ Can be accessed from any location via the switch's IP address „ Password protected „ Ideal for configuring the switch remotely „ Compatible with Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator Web browsers „ Intuitive browser interface „ Most visually appealing „ Extensive switch configuration allowed „ Configuration backup for duplicating settings to other switches For a more detailed discussion of the Smartwizard Discovery Utility Program, see chapter 4. For a more detailed discussion of the Web Browser Interface, see chapter 5. Page 3 of 3