jdMorgan - 1:29 pm on May 29, 2009 (gmt 0)

Yes, option "a" with the "spur." It's not related to subnet IP address masks, just physically partitioning the network into high- and low-speed segments using switches.

In order to avoid major headaches, label both ends of each cable with where the *other end* goes and what the speed is. For example, the cable on your desk that you plug into your laptop should say, "To Gigabit switch #1 under Bob's desk. Attach 1GB/s devices ONLY."

The other end of that cable, at the GigaBit switch should say, "To puremetal's desk, 1GB/s." And the switch needs a label too, designating it as "1GB Switch #1." Basically, label everything to save time and money today and later.

Warn all co-workers about the effects of plugging low-speed devices into the high-speed network segment. Anyone who might need to plug in both low- and high-speed devices needs two cables at their desk -- one for each network segment, and this will likely be easier to provide right now than later.

If someone plugs a low-speed device into the high-speed segment, just go to switch #1 and unplug each cable one at a time until the speed goes back up. Then read the label on the un-plugged cable, and it'll tell you what desk to go to to find the problem.

Aren't transitional networks fun? ;)

Jim