Choosing a network switch: why the difference in price? 1

[bazil2]

(Elementary user)

We require new network switches with Gigabit performance.

I have been looking at theses two models:

HP ProCurve Switch 2810-48G (J9022A)
HP 5500-48G-4SFP HI Switch with 2 Interface Slots (JG312A)

The prices differ vastly between the models; can anyone please put into layman's terms what these differences really are, e.g., do the added costs pertain solely to the configuration options?

Best regards

 

[unclerico]

I don't even think they sell the 2800 series anymore do they? At any rate the 5500 HI is a stackable switch (IRF) and is L3 capable; you'll pay a premium for both of those features. The 2810 is a run-of-the-mill L2 switch that isn't anything special.

 

[bazil2]

Many thanks.

Sorry for a somewhat amateur question, but have I understood correctly, stackable would mean that multiple switches can be connected through a 'cascade' cable as opposed to plugging one switch into another by one of the RJ-45 ports on the front? Stackable has then a speed advantage when crossing to another switch on the same LAN?

I've read up a bit on Layer 2 and Layer 3; would I be correct that if my network consisted of just one big LAN, i.e., nothing to be divided up or protected, everyone can talk to everyone etc., then Layer 2 would be sufficient?

Best regards

 

[unclerico]

Yes, stackable essentially means combining multiple physical switches together via a high speed interconnect and have them appear as one large virtual switch/chassis.

As for L2/L3, yes, if everything is all under one "roof" meaning everything resides in 10.0.0.0/24 then L2 would be sufficient. If you are looking to replace what you currently have in terms of switching gear you need to look into your crystal ball three years down the road and determine if a flat network will serve you best or if you will need to segment the network into multiple VLANs/subnets. If you are outgrowing your address space or if you notice sluggish network response you should consider purchasing a multilayer switch such as the 5500 HI you referenced above.

Also, since you placed this question in the NAS/SAN forum, I am assuming you are looking for storage switches??

 

[bazil2]

Thanks very much!

Well actually I'm not looking for a switch with storage, just a 'normal' one; I couldn't find a suitable forum.

Do you yourself have any recommendations for a stackable, Layer 2 switch?

Best regards

 

[unclerico]

Juniper or Cisco; Juniper EX3300 and Cisco 2960-S. I have been a Cisco guy my entire career and only recently (last 2 years) came across Juniper and I must say I absolutely love everything about their gear. You really can't go wrong with either one.