Verilink 8100A (34-00237) Product Manual - Manual (Page 127)

C o n f i g u r a t i o n 4-53
Bridge Configuration
This section describes how to configure the IAD as a bridge. A bridge is a
device that connects and passes packets between two network segments that
use the same communications protocol. A router generally improves overall
efficiency for a complex network, but a bridge provides better speed and
flexibility for the overall network.
NOTICE: Verilink recommends that bridged network architecture be thoroughly
understood prior to configuring the IAD. Suggested reading:
“Interconnections: Bridges and Routers” by Radia Perlman, Addison-
Wesley, 1992.
Bridges operate at the data link layer (Layer 2) of the OSI reference model.
In general, a bridge filters, forwards, or floods an incoming frame based on
the MAC address of that frame.
Basic Bridge Setup Tasks
Perform these tasks to set up bridging for your network:
• Enable bridging globally (page 4-56) or by port (page 4-56)
• Set the bridge aging timer (page 4-57)
• Disable RIP poisoned reverse globally (page 4-45) or by port (page 4-45)
• Enable Spanning Tree globally (page 4-57) or by port (page 4-58)
Use the flowchart below to plan your tasks, based on your requirements.