what are jumbo frames...and should I use them?

[mcveigh]

I am moving part of one network to gigabit using intel pro 1000MT and XT nics and linksys 5 port gigabit switch. these will be for 3 servers on a network w/ about 12 other workstations.

3servers w/ gigabit:
2 win2k server
---1exchange 2000
---1 PBX phone sytem
1 Debian linux file server

the rest of the network is on a 10/100 3com suprestack3 switch.

I can enable jumbo frames but should I only do that if the whole network is gigabit?

 

[spidey07]

Jumbo Frames = frames larger than 1514 bytes.

Only gigabit supports them. Significant performance advantages can be gained by using them.

BUT!

You can only use jumbo frames if every single device in the chain supports it. Meaning the NIC of the sender and the NIC of the receiver must support jumbo frames and have them enabled. Also any network devices inbetween like switches and routers need to support them as well.

I believe all SOHO gear does not support jumbo frames. I could be off base though so check with support on your switches.

So in your instance, i'd leave it alone or maybe try it in a lab or off hours.

 

[mcveigh]

thanks!