LAN Switches Form the Core of Every Network

Local-area network (LAN) switches are at the core of all networks, providing high-speed connectivity among users, applications, and communications systems. Because LAN switches are typically deployed throughout business networks, they are the ideal platforms for integrating advanced services throughout the network, such as:

• Integrated Security: Because a network switch is the first point of entry into the network for users and servers, it provides the first line of defense against internal security attacks and helps prevent unauthorized users from entering the network
• High Availability: Because most network traffic flows through network switches, it's crucial that they have the highest availability possible to minimize the overall cost of network downtime.
• Converged Services: Bringing voice, video, and wireless traffic onto a single IP network requires that Ethernet switches provide additional converged services to ensure the best possible experience for users and to ease deployment and management as well.

Given the large volume of data switches that are typically deployed throughout a business network, ease of manageability is important for greater IT operational efficiency. LAN switches with features designed for strong investment protection and flexibility can be deployed longer, maximizing return on investment.