Large Pathport networks typically have a more sophisticated network infrastructure.  Here are some important configuration considerations.

WARNING:  These notes are for the use of experienced network support personnel only.  Mis-configuration of network components can result in outages or a totally non-functioning network.

The Pathport Protocol requires a network infrastructure that provides support for high-bandwidth, multicast UDP traffic.  Pathport traffic consists of UDP unicast data, as well as data on 3 different multicast groups.  All traffic is sent to UDP port 3792.

The 3 multicast groups used are:

239.255.237.1
239.255.237.2
239.255.237.255

(Future versions may also use 239.255.237.3 - 239.255.237.66 )

Data throughput is essential, as data rates can reach greater than 700Kbits/second from each node on the system.  Node counts can reach 80-100 in larger systems.  Traffic is typically bursty and large spikes can often occur during times of heavy use.

It is highly recommended that all traffic management features be disabled on all switches with Pathport nodes connected, especially those related to managing broadcast storms.  Typical spikes in Pathport traffic can erroneously trigger broadcast storm management, causing undesirable results.  If storm control cannot be disabled, it is important that the threshold be adjustable to a packet rate higher than 150 packets per second, per Pathport node on the system.

All features related to IGMP must be properly configured as the Pathport protocol relies heavily on multicast technology.  Properly configured IGMP features can be an advantage as these can allow increased usage of the network infrastructure for non-Pathport applications.  Conversely improperly configured IGMP features can completely disable the Pathport network. Features like "IGMP snooping" and "Multicast Filtering" should be enabled only by qualified personnel.

Future versions of Pathport will also use TCP directed communication on ports 3791-3799.  This type traffic does not typically cause IT management issues.