Skills of managed switch configuration via serial port

Managed switch will be one of the mainstream directions in the future. The key point is that managed switches can provide comprehensive and intelligent management to ensure all the network resources in good condition, guarantee the stability and safety of network most effectively. From this meaning, the function of managed switches is much stronger than the unmanaged switches.

Relatively speaking, there are three control channels for managed Ethernet switch. It is terminal control, sometimes also called Console interface; Web page, this is one of the most intuitive control modes; and Telnet remote associated login operating mode. Of course, these are the most popular ways. Other ways will not introduce here. Here let’s introduce the first way terminal control, also known as serial port management mode.

Through serial port to manage the switch, the biggest advantage is to solve the problem of many switches’ default IP address. Switch is the transportation hub of campus network system. Its management characteristic determines the overall performance of campus network. Some managed switches are without default IP address, so the initial configuration can't be managed through Telnet, Web. We need to manage the switch through serial port. Below are the steps of how to use serial port to manage the switch.

First, connect PC with switch

Connect PC with managed switch, thus you can manage it. Managed switches usually are with accessories of serial port cable for webmaster local management. Connect the cable to the console port; meanwhile twist screws well to prevent the poor contact. Connect the other side of the cable to ordinary PC serial port. Please ensure that the cable plugged in COM1 or COM2. This will be useful for setting in the future.

Second, “Hyper terminal” setting

After connection, connect managed switch and power supply and start up. Windows 98 / Me / 98 always provide “hyper terminal” service. If not, you can add it in communication group from “add/remove programs”. You can also use other terminal emulation programs which meet VTY100 standards.

When running “hyper terminal” for the first time, the system connected via Modem in default; and it requests users to input connection area code. If your computer does not install Modem, there will be a prompt “have to install before connecting the Modem, install it now? Here, click on [no] button”.

After program running, it will remind you to create a new connection name. We are here to enter “Switch”. Click [sure] button, a window will appear, which requires users to choose a connection using which ports. It is important to note that you should choose the number of connection to PC serial port. If not sure, you can use serial port 1 and serial port 2 to have a try respectively.

After serial port connection, click [Confirm] button, COM port property window will be appeared. There are parameter settings about baud rate, data bits, parity check, stop bits and flow control, etc. How to set up so many parameters? In fact, as long as you click restore default values button, you can invoke the most conservative parameter setting. Default parameters can be applied under most of the connection condition, so that there is no need for users to spend time on studying these parameters again. After setting connection parameters, the program will automatically follow the commands from connected switches. Why a blank interface appeared? Don't worry, press enter key, the true face of managed Ethernet switch management main interface finally appeared. 

From now on, you have to forget the existence of the mouse. All control will be achieved by keyboard. The operation is very simple: use enter key to execute command; use “tab” key or arrow key to move in options; use space key or letter keys, number keys to change certain parameters. Before log in operating system, users need to enter the administrator user name and password.

Most of the equipment administrator default user is named with meaningful English words such as “Admin” or “Super”. For some switches, there is initial password, others not. As long as you study the user manual, you will understand the information.