A CISCO switch is not a God particle. It is just as vulnerable as other switches. The recent (late-2011) Blackberry server crash has mainly been attributed to a failed Cisco switch that was situated in Blackberry's core network, which handled dynamic and overcrowded databases in real time. So, the lesson is here is that even the awe-inspiring switch can fail and you need a strong warranty when you're buying one. And, here's why you need this warranty and how you should use one:
1. A Cisco switch is equipped with LEDs on system components, which will flash green when everything's a-OK. However, if the LED lights conk out, there's no way of telling if all the components are working. You need a switch warranty to cover these little indicators that can make such a huge difference.
2. The "Show System" command on a switch system operating software must be operated regularly for system failu res. The Show System module clues an IT network manager about the uptime and system failures. This can help the IT network manager figure out problem areas in the switch and invoke the warranty, when necessary. Operational problems keep cropping up and therefore its best to know these and get them patched up with CISCO's 24/7 support.
3. Then, all IT managers must keep an eagle eye on the "Show Test" module of the system operating software. If this module comes across any hardware that is not functional, it displays an "F" next to the hardware component's name. This test must be run regularly to take advantage of the CISCO's 90-day material and workmanship warranty. In fact, the IT manager must stress test the switch and test to see if the hardware is robust or not.
4. The IT manager must also understand what's going around inside the switch. He must run the "logging buffer" and check the "Message and Recovery Procedures" document. This document will indicate wha t failed, at what time, and whether it was a hardware or software crash. Though all CISCO switches are robust, there's no telling when a piece of hardware can fail or when a software tool can crash. Therefore all IT network managers must stay on top on what's going on inside the switch and invoke the warranty as required.
5. Sometimes multiple ports can create multiple problems even after the IT manager disables-enables them. Now, enabling-disabling ports on the switch can trigger other events that may cause glitches. As the IT managers keep shuffling between ports regularly, it makes sense to stress test the ports and replace the defective ports, if any.
6. The line cards in the chassis engine can fail and the pins in the Supervisor Engine can get bent. It's best that these are replaced as per the warranty terms.
Though a CISCO switch is a prime product, it can fail, and there's no telling when any hardware fails. Therefore, you need a warranty when you bu y a switch.
Vincent Rogers is a freelance writer who writes for a number of UK businesses. For information about Cisco Switch, he recommends Prodec Networks.