Santa Monica, California-based Retix Inc has launched a local bridge-router based on its 4660 local bridge environment. The 4760, according to Retix, combines the advantages of bridging and routing for users with large, multi-vendor networks. The thing simultaneously routes TCP/IP traffic while bridging all other protocols. Retix says it is aimed at local nets with continuous, heavy traffic which use multiple protocols. It has forwarding speeds of up to 7,800 pps for routing and 13,650 pps for bridging. In internet protocol routing, the bridge enables users to partition networks by internet protocol address for scalability, especially when used in conjunction with bridging. Special filters for MAC and destination addresses, packet type and internet protocol addresses have been added for the administration of network security and traffic control. Local or remote bridge-router configuration and management is possible with any Unix personal computer or workstation that uses Telnet. There is also a front panel display that provides immediate readout on bridge-router activity and status and a unique download feature that enables new operating software to be downloaded through the network from a management station, rather than requiring PROM changes. Like other Retix bridges and routers, the 4760 contains SNMP capabilities and can be managed by the Retix 5025 Network Management Center, a Sun Microsystems Inc Sparcstation-based management station. The 4760 supports standard 802.3/Ethernet, thin Ethernet, Fibre Optic Inter-Repeater Link and 10Base-T. Any combination can be used to enable interconnection of the two media. Also, modular interface cards enable the 4760 to be reconfigured to support different media as a network changes. The 4760 sells for $4,250.
