Cabletron Systems CSX1200 Switch User Manual


 
USER’S GUIDE
30 CyberSWITCH
Protocol Discrimination
It is possible for multiple types of remote devices to use the same line. The system can
determine the device type and the protocol encapsulation used by remote devices.
RS232 Port: Dual Usage
If your installation requires you to process PPP-Async data, this feature allows you to use the
RS232 port for either console access or a serial data connection. This dual usage is possible
through the CyberSWITCH’s support of Autosense mode and Terminal mode:
Autosense mode determines whether you are trying to connect using a VT emulation or PPP-
Async, and connects you appropriately. (VT emulation requires you to perform four car-
riage returns to receive a login prompt.)
Terminal mode assumes that you only want to connect using VT emulation. A login prompt
is displayed as soon as the connection is made.
•Security
Security is a key issue for all central site network managers and is a priority with the
CyberSWITCHs. The modules provide high level features that help prevent unauthorized or
inadvertent access to critical data and resources. The modules support extensive security levels
including:
PPP PAP and CHAP
User name and password
Calling Line ID (CLID)
Ethernet Address
User Authentication
Device Authentication
SecureFast Virtual Remote Access (SFVRA)
TACACS Client with Radius Server
•RADIUS
Security Dynamic’s ACE/SecurID
Simultaneous Connections
The system supports simultaneous connections to multiple locations. These locations can
connect by using different channels on the same line, or they can connect on different lines. This
pooling of lines among many potential locations is more cost effective than alternative point-
to-point lines.
INTEROPERABILITY OVERVIEW
“Interoperability” is the ability to operate and exchange information in a heterogeneous network.
The CyberSWITCH supports interoperability with many different remote devices over ISDN.
INTEROPERABILITY PROTOCOLS
In order to communicate with various remote devices over ISDN, the CyberSWITCH must identify
the device type and the protocol it is using.
The CyberSWITCH supports the following line protocols:
HDLC Ethernet Frames
Ordered Protocol for Ethernet Frames
Point-to-Point Protocol (PPP) Encapsulation for IP Datagrams