gigabit, how does this help?

[dogsbod]

Hi,

I have 4 servers with gigabit nics in them and all the desktop pcs have 100mbps nics in them, how does this increase network through put. I use the gigabit ports on the switch to connect switches together. I just don't get the point of gigabit nics on server unless your network is all gigabit (i mean all ports on switch and nics in pcs)..am I totally incorrect?

 

[Sympology]

If your running using gig switches then it will help. Imagine if a load of desktops request info of a (fast) server. If the server is 1gig then, in theory, it could feed 10 desktops at full speed (yeah right!). In fact it may be best to leave desktops at 100mbs as a single pc can't hog all the servers bandwidth.
However, if the switch is only 100mb, then you have no gain as the NIC can and will only run at 100mbs.

Only the truly stupid believe they know everything.
Stu.. 2004

 

[ChrisAC]

It makes your server go "Wooooooosh!!!!!"

Like Stu said, many clients at 100Meg connecting to one server.

Scream if you want to go faster!!

Chris.

**********************
Chris A.C, CCNA, CCSA
**********************

 

[dogsbod]

I suppose in that case you'll have to connect your server to a gigabit port on the switch otherwise the switch will limit the traffic to 100mbps anyways, regardless of the the speed of its own nic or the number of pcs talking to it. Is this a realistic setup:

1 gigabit switch, all ports gigabit ---servers on this

uplink to a gigabit port on 10\100mbps switch ---workstations on this

 

[jimbopalmer]

that is fine, or you may be able to find stackable switches where the stack cable is faster than gig, so the servers can all chat to workstations

here is an (overkill) example

http://www.dlink.com/products/?pid=294&sec=2&sCT=

I tried to remain child-like, all I acheived was childish.