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Management Networks for Dell EMC Networking Configuration Guide
Notes, cautions, and warnings Introduction Management Network Selection
Management Network Selection
Switch management ports
Console management
OOB Ethernet topology
In-band Ethernet management
Console Management Out-of-band Management Networks In-band Management Networks Managing Dell EMC Servers Remote Access Security Considerations Using a Terminal Emulator Connecting to Upstream Management LCD Panel Glossary Components Used in the Examples Technical Resources Fabric Design Center Support and Feedback

Management Network Selection

Home > Networking Solutions > Enterprise/Data Center Networking Solutions > SmartFabric OS10 Networking Solutions > Guides > Management Networks for Dell EMC Networking Configuration Guide > Management Network Selection

Management Network Selection

  • There are three management network methods that are commonly used for deploying and managing switches, servers, and other devices on the network:

    • Console
    • Out-of-band Ethernet
    • In-band Ethernet

    The method that is used is based largely on the existing architecture, preference, budget, or a combination of these factors. If a management network is already in place and working satisfactorily, there is little else to do. The planning or budgeting of a greenfield network, or the addition to an existing management infrastructure in a brownfield network, can prompt questions regarding the method of management to use. This guide helps you decide which method you should use and the process that is required to set up the management network.

    Consider the following when deciding which management network is best for your environment and budget:

    • New or existing production network
    • Accessibility of the management network when the production network is down
    • Ability to connect to management network over IP: SSH, Telnet, HTTPS, HTTPS
    • Ability to connect and view logs of production switches while they are booting
    • Security
    • Budget concerns

    The following table shows a comparison between the commonly used management networks, each with pros and cons. This information may be used in deciding which management networks are best for your environment and budget.

     Table 2.  Comparison of management network methods 

    		Console managementOOB Ethernet managementIn-band Ethernet management
    Pros
    • Ideal for new configurations
    • Always accessible if power is on
    • Operates during POST
    • View logs during boot
    • Independent network
    • Can be accessible when the production network is down
    • SSH and Telnet support
    • HTTP and HTTPS support
    • Allows for ACLs for identity and security
    • Uses existing equipment
    • SSH and Telnet support
    • HTTP and HTTPS support
    • Allows for ACLs for identity and security
    Cons
    • Requires extra equipment for one-to-many management
    • No SSH or Telnet support
    • No HTTP or HTTPS support
    • Slower file transfers/upgrades
    • Dedicated console cabling, dongle, and driver installation
    • Embedded USB driver installation
    • Requires additional dedicated switches
    • Requires extra cabling
    • Dedicated management ports not available on all switches
    • May go down along with the production network
    • Requires use of production network ports
    • Requires use of production network bandwidth
    • Dedicated management ports are left unused

    Implementing two or more methods can complement each other and enable network administrators the flexibility of choosing where to deploy each.