3Com Switch Takes Network Intelligence To New Level

CRN Test Center engineers tend to stay away from words such as "smart," but in this case the word is accurate. The switch adds high-speed Gigabit Ethernet performance to network infrastructures that don't need complex management capabilities.

The 2816-SFP Plus is a Web-configurable Gigabit switch with 16 10/100/1000 ports. The unit also includes four SFP ports for Fibre connectivity.

The switch is fully operational right out of the box, so getting the unit up and running takes just minutes. This is a great feature for SMBs that don't have the luxury of a dedicated IT staff to help with installation problems such as detecting devices and adjusting settings.

The 2816-SFP Plus can automatically detect and adjust the speed of devices connected to the Internet. Features such as auto MDI/MDI-X (medium dependent interface/medium dependent interface crossed) and autosensing will help solution providers get the most out of a network's performance.

VLAN segmentation, a common enterprise feature, is also included and helps ensure optimal use of available bandwidth by grouping users on a dedicated network based on their data and traffic provisions. The switch scales easily to accommodate up to 256 users and can meet the needs of network traffic flow for almost any size business.

3Com bundles the switch with a Web-based port management interface, which provides a visual representation of the switch's status online. This feature can also be accessed remotely to allow administrators to check the status of a unit.

Solution providers can offer customers maintenance contracts and remote monitoring year-round. This will ensure residual, recurring revenue and an ongoing customer relationship, which can lead to sales of A/V software or firewall installations.

Priced at less than $900, the switch is an excellent value considering its extensive functionality. Features such as link aggregation, VLAN segmentation, traffic prioritization and traffic port monitoring can increase control and enhance the intelligence of the network the switch occupies.

3Com's partner program provides generous incentives, marketing assistance and sales support for competitive bidding situations. Sales and marketing tools, technical resources and training programs are available at 3Com's dedicated solution provider Web site. 3Com provides a lifetime warranty for all products.

CHANNEL PROGRAM SNAPSHOTS
>Baseline Switch 2816-SFP Plus

COMPANY: 3Com
Mass, Marlborough
(508) 323-1059
www.3Com.com/baseline
AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTS: None
DISTRIBUTORS/INTEGRATORS: Alltel, Graybar, Ingram micro, Synnex, Tech data, Westcon
WARRANTY: Limited lifetime
TECH RATING:

CHANNEL RATING:

Note: Recommended status is earned with a score of eight stars out of 10