Enterasys Networks Fast Network 10 - Manual (Page 20)

Chapter 1: Introduction
Page 1-10 Fast Network 10 User Guide
• A single port number of the LAN on which the address resides
• The age of the entry
• Various statistics counters
• Any filtering restrictions added by a Network Management Station
(NMS)
Each static entry contains the same information as a dynamic entry,
except the static entry is not aged, and can contain a range of port
numbers, rather than a single port number.
The FN10 stores 8,192 dynamic (learned) entries in its Bridge Address
Table. In addition, it stores up to 200 static or user-defined addresses.
1.5.3 FN10 Filtering
One of the most significant features of the FN10 is its user-configurable
filtering capabilities. A filter is an instruction to the FN10 to screen data
packets based on the criteria you define. Filtering is useful for gathering
statistics, implementing security measures, and improving network
performance.
The FN10 allows you to implement two types of filters that are useful for
managing and administering networks:
• Bridge Address Table filters, which use the FN10 Bridge Address
Table to screen local traffic
• Port filters, which apply filters to or from a specific port segment
See Chapter 5, FN10 Filters for instructions on setting up FN10 filters.
1.5.4 FN10 Sample Applications
Just as a six lane highway allows you to travel much faster than a single
lane highway, a network backbone creates high-speed connections for
your network. In general, a network backbone allows you to distribute
access to important network resources such as file or print servers.