1. Introduction
The TP-Link TL-SG2424 Gigabit Smart Switch is designed to provide high performance, enterprise-level Quality of Service (QoS), robust security strategies, and comprehensive Layer 2 management features. This cost-effective solution is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses requiring efficient network management and reliable data transfer.
This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, configuring, and maintaining your TL-SG2424 switch.
2. Package Contents
Verify that your package contains the following items:
- Switch TL-SG2424
- Power Cord
- Ethernet Cable
- Rackmount Kit
- Rubber Feet
- Quick Installation Guide
- Resource CD
3. Hardware Overview
The TL-SG2424 features 24 Gigabit RJ45 ports and 4 combo SFP slots, designed for flexible network deployment.
Figure 3.1: Front Panel of TL-SG2424 Switch
This image displays the front panel of the TP-Link TL-SG2424 switch. On the left, the TP-Link logo and model number are visible. To the right, there are LED indicators for Power, System, and Link/Act status for each of the 24 Gigabit RJ45 ports. The RJ45 ports are arranged in two rows, numbered 1-24. On the far right, four combo SFP slots are present, labeled 21F, 22F, 23F, and 24F, which share bandwidth with the last four RJ45 ports (21-24).
3.1. Front Panel Layout
- RJ45 Ports (1-24): 10/100/1000Mbps Ethernet ports for connecting network devices.
- Combo SFP Slots (21F-24F): Four SFP slots that share bandwidth with RJ45 ports 21-24. These slots support 100/1000Mbps SFP modules for fiber optic connections. When an SFP module is inserted into a combo slot, the corresponding RJ45 port is disabled.
- LED Indicators:
- Power LED: Indicates the power status of the switch.
- System LED: Indicates the system status.
- Link/Act LEDs (for each RJ45 port):
- Green (Top): Indicates a 1000Mbps link. Blinking indicates activity.
- Green (Bottom): Indicates a 10/100Mbps link. Blinking indicates activity.
- Reset Button: Used to restore the switch to factory default settings.
4. Setup
4.1. Physical Installation
- Rackmount Installation: Attach the provided rackmount brackets to the sides of the switch using the included screws. Secure the switch into a standard 19-inch equipment rack.
- Desktop Placement: If not rackmounting, attach the rubber feet to the bottom of the switch to prevent slipping and protect surfaces. Place the switch on a flat, stable surface. Ensure adequate ventilation around the switch.
4.2. Connecting the Switch
- Power Connection: Connect the power cord to the switch's power inlet and then to a grounded electrical outlet. The Power LED should illuminate.
- Network Connections:
- Connect your network devices (computers, servers, other switches, routers) to the RJ45 ports using Ethernet cables.
- For fiber optic connections, insert compatible SFP modules into the SFP slots and connect fiber optic cables. Remember that using an SFP module in a combo slot disables the corresponding RJ45 port.
- Initial Management Connection: Connect a computer directly to any RJ45 port on the switch using an Ethernet cable for initial configuration via the web-based GUI or CLI.
5. Operating the Switch
The TL-SG2424 is a managed switch offering a range of features to optimize network performance and security.
5.1. Key Features
- Advanced QoS: Prioritize network traffic based on Port Priority, 802.1P Priority, and DSCP Priority to ensure smooth operation for voice and video applications. Supports Voice VLAN.
- Layer 2 Features: Includes 802.1Q tag VLAN, Port Isolation, Port Mirroring, STP/RSTP/MSTP, Link Aggregation Control Protocol (LACP), and 802.3x Flow Control.
- Network Maintenance: Features like Loop Back Detection, Cable Diagnostics, and IGMP Snooping for efficient network monitoring and troubleshooting. IGMP Snooping intelligently forwards multicast streams.
- Security Strategies: Support for Broadcast, Multicast, and Unknown unicast Storm Control, Static/Dynamic Port Security (MAC-based), and Access Control List (ACL) for L2~L4 packet filtering. Includes SSL and SSH encryptions.
6. Management
The TL-SG2424 offers multiple management options for ease of use and configuration.
- Web-based GUI: An intuitive graphical user interface accessible via a web browser for easy configuration and monitoring.
- Command Line Interface (CLI): Industry-standard CLI accessible via Telnet for advanced configuration.
- SNMP (v1/2/3): Simple Network Management Protocol for remote management and monitoring.
- RMON (1, 2, 3, 9 groups): Remote Monitoring for enhanced network monitoring capabilities.
- Other Features: DHCP/BOOTP Client, CPU Monitoring, Port Mirroring (Many to One), Cable Diagnostics, Ping/Tracert, System Log.
Refer to the Resource CD or TP-Link's official website for detailed management guides and firmware updates.
7. Maintenance
Regular maintenance helps ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your switch.
- Firmware Updates: Periodically check the TP-Link website for the latest firmware updates to ensure your switch has the most current features and security patches.
- Environmental Conditions: Ensure the switch is operated within its specified temperature and humidity ranges. Maintain good airflow around the device to prevent overheating.
- Cleaning: Keep the switch clean and free from dust. Use a soft, dry cloth for cleaning. Do not use liquid or aerosol cleaners.
- Configuration Backup: Regularly back up your switch's configuration settings to prevent data loss in case of unexpected issues or resets.
8. Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions to common issues you might encounter with your TL-SG2424 switch.
- No Power:
- Ensure the power cord is securely connected to both the switch and a working electrical outlet.
- Verify the power outlet is functional by plugging in another device.
- No Link/Activity on a Port:
- Check the Ethernet cable connection at both ends. Try a different cable.
- Ensure the connected device is powered on and functioning correctly.
- If using an SFP module, ensure it is correctly seated and compatible, and that the corresponding RJ45 port is not in use.
- Use the Cable Diagnostics feature in the management interface to test the cable.
- Cannot Access Management Interface:
- Verify your computer's IP address is in the same subnet as the switch's default IP address (refer to the Quick Installation Guide for default IP).
- Ensure there are no IP address conflicts on your network.
- Try connecting directly to the switch with an Ethernet cable.
- If all else fails, perform a factory reset using the Reset button (this will erase all configurations).
- Network Performance Issues:
- Check for network loops using Loop Back Detection.
- Monitor CPU usage via the management interface.
- Ensure QoS settings are correctly configured for critical applications.
9. Specifications
9.1. Hardware Specifications
- Interface: 24 10/100/1000Mbps RJ45 Ports, 4 Combo 100/1000Mbps SFP Slots
- Fan Quantity: Fanless
- Dimensions (W X D X H): 17.3 x 7.1 x 1.7 inches (440 x 180 x 44 mm)
- Power Supply: Internal Universal Power Supply, AC 100-240V~50/60Hz input
- Switching Capacity: 48Gbps
- Maximum Packet Forward Rate: 35.7Mbps
- MAC Address Table: 8K
- Jumbo Frame: 10KB
9.2. L2 Switching Features
- Link Aggregation: Supports 802.3ad LACP and static link aggregation. Up to 6 aggregation groups, each with 4 ports.
- Spanning Tree Protocol: 802.1D STP, 802.1W RSTP, 802.1S MSTP. Includes STP Security features like Loop back detection, TC Protect, BPDU Filter/Protect, Root Protect.
- Multicast: Supports IGMP Snooping V1/V2/V3 (up to 256 groups), Multicast VLANs, IGMP Immediate Leave, Unknown IGMP Throttling, IGMP Filtering, Static Multicast IP.
- VLAN: Supports up to 512 802.1Q VLANs and 4000 VIDs.
9.3. Quality of Service (QoS)
- Supports 802.1p CoS/DSCP priority.
- 4 priority queues.
- Queue scheduling: SP, WRR, SP+WRR.
- Port/Flow-based Rate Limiting.
- Voice VLAN support for voice applications.
9.4. Advanced Security Strategies
- Broadcast, Multicast, and Unknown unicast Storm Control.
- Static/Dynamic Port Security (MAC-based).
- Access Control List (ACL) for L2~L4 packet filtering (based on source/destination MAC address, IP address, TCP/UDP ports).
- SSL and SSH encryptions.
9.5. Management Features
- Web-based GUI management.
- Command Line Interface (CLI) via Telnet.
- SNMP v1/v2c/v3.
- RMON (1, 2, 3, 9 groups).
- DHCP/BOOTP Client.
- CPU Monitoring.
- Port Mirroring (Many to One).
- Cable Diagnostics.
- Ping/Tracert.
- System Log.
9.6. MIBs Supported
- MIB II (RFC1213)
- Interface MIB (RFC2233)
- Ethernet Interface MIB (RFC1643)
- Bridge MIB (RFC1493)
- P/Q-Bridge MIB (RFC2674)
- RMON MIB (RFC2819)
- RMON2 MIB (RFC2021)
- Remote Ping, Traceroute MIB (RFC2925)
- TP-LINK private MIBs
10. Compatible TP-Link SFP Modules
The TL-SG2424 switch is compatible with the following TP-Link SFP modules:
- TL-SM311LS: Gigabit SFP module, Single-mode, LC interface, Up to 10km distance.
- TL-SM311LM: Gigabit SFP module, Multi-mode, LC interface, Up to 550m distance.
- TL-SM321A: Gigabit WDM Bi-Directional SFP Module, single-mode, LC connector, TX:1550nm/RX:1310nm, 10km.
- TL-SM321B: Gigabit WDM Bi-Directional SFP Module, single-mode, LC connector, TX:1310nm/RX:1550nm, 10km.
11. Warranty and Support
TP-Link products typically come with a manufacturer's warranty. Based on customer feedback, the TL-SG2424 may be covered by a 5-year warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package or visit the official TP-Link website for the most accurate and up-to-date warranty information specific to your region.
For technical support, firmware updates, and additional resources, please visit the official TP-Link support website.
