Grandstream 7830 series network switches: designed for the distribution layer

Grandstream is known for its high-quality network infrastructure equipment, and devices. The company recently introduced a new series of layer 3 network switches to its star-studded lineup. In this article, we review this series of devices, highlighting each unit's innovative features and describing some of the most common use cases for each.

Grandstream's 7380 series switches: empowering the distribution layer

A hierarchical network design architecture uses an approach based on the access, distribution, and core layers. The access layer is where user devices connect to the network. The distribution layer, also known as the aggregation layer, plays a crucial intermediary role, aggregating connections from switches on the access layer and linking them to the network's backbone.

The core layer serves as that backbone, a central point of interconnection for various network components, ensuring efficient data flow throughout the network.

Grandstream's 7830 series aggregation network switches are specifically designed to meet the needs of the distribution layer. They facilitate bridging the access and core layers, ensuring smooth and efficient network operation.

Aggregation Layer features

All three switches in the series focus on providing fiber optic connectivity using SFP and SFP+ ports. The use of fiber means higher throughput capacities and the ability to achieve longer backhaul distances. Advanced layer 2 and Layer 3 features suitable for distribution layer operation are available, including static and dynamic routing, multicast, quality of service (QoS) mechanisms, link aggregation, and support for multiple STP protocols such as MSTP and RSTP.

All three switches deliver industry-standard security protocols, including 802.1X authentication, support for RADIUS and TACACS+ AAA, storm control, DHCP snooping, and port security, to name a few.

In addition, you can manage the switches individually via a web GUI or a command line interface, using Telnet or SSH, or via Grandstream's GWN Cloud and GWN Manager network management systems.

7830 models

The three models differ primarily in the number and type of ports each provides. As such, deployment cases focus mainly on the size of the network and the number of access layer switches that must be aggregated:

• The GWN7830 model is the entry-level device in the series, sporting two Gigabit Ethernet ports, six Gigabit SFP ports, and four 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports. This device is ideal for smaller networks that require some aggregation or portions of your network that have a few access layer switches that need aggregation. It delivers maximum performance with minimal power consumption.
  
  
• The GWN7831 model is a step up from the entry-level option, delivering four RJ-45/SFP Gigabit combo ports, an additional 20 dedicated Gigabit SFP ports, and four 10 Gigabit SFP+ ports. This model delivers the largest number of ports in the series for those network areas with more access layer switches to aggregate.
  
  
• The GWN7832 model sports 12 SFP+ ports, all supporting up to 10 Gigabit speeds. Although it has fewer ports, it offers the greatest switching capacity and is ideal for network areas requiring higher bandwidth capabilities for aggregation.

The 7830 and 7831 models support both single-mode and multimode SFP and SFP+ modules, while the 7832 device supports only SFP+ modules.

Key shared features

All three switches share a variety of advanced features. Some of the most significant are detailed below:

• Support for both IPv4 and IPv6
• IEEE 802.1Q VLAN tagging
• Voice VLAN support
• VLAN virtual interface
• Static and dynamic routing
• Support for the RIP, RIPng, OSPF, and OSPFv3 dynamic routing protocols
• Multicast support, including:
  • Multicast routing
  • IGMPv2 and v3
  • IGMP snooping
  • MLD snooping (for IPv6)
• Quality of service features, including:
  • Queue scheduling: SP, WRR, WFQ, SP-WRR, and SP-WFQ
  • Traffic shaping
  • Rate limiting
• DHCP server DHCP relay and support for DHCP options 43, 60, 82, and 160
• Security features, including:
  • 802.1X authentication
  • AAA authentication with RADIUS and TACACS+
  • Storm control
  • Port security
  • MAC address filtering and IP source guard
  • ARP inspection
  • DHCP Snooping
• Multiple mounting options, including desktop, wall mounting, or rack mounting (mounting kits are included)

Comparison table

This comprehensive table compares some of these switches' most noteworthy features and capabilities to help you decide which is most appropriate for your network.

Conclusion

Grandstream’s new series of aggregation switches represents an important addition to the company’s arsenal of network infrastructure devices. These new switches deliver powerful network capabilities, multiple security features, easy management and maintenance, and compatibility with many of the most popular protocols and standards.

They are ideal for any small to medium-sized business seeking to upgrade and enhance its network infrastructure.

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