I need help finding the appropriate Layer 3 switch that can be a IGMP querier for IP Video Surveillance systems. The VMS systems I install sometimes can have multiple client workstations (10+) requiring connections the same IP camera(s). Speaking with vendor sales representatives is a frustrating dead end. They simply do not know what you're trying to do and I don't want to be over-sold. Using Cisco as an example, I feel that I've gotten close to a part number for the switch I would need, but figuring out how to license the product appropriately has evaded me thus far. Can anyone help?
Subscriber Discussion
Multicast Networking Equipment - Need A Layer 3 Switch That Can Be A IGMP Querier For IP Video Surveillance Systems
Sean Patton
Jun 29, 2018Any of the Cisco 9300 or 9400 switches will support multicasting, but there are 2 levels of licensing options for that series of switch, either will enable mulitcasting protocols.
There are a lot of other variables to the part numbers for most/all switch manufacturers (dual power supplies, SFP types, PoE power supply, etc), but you should be safe with any Layer 3 switch. Technically you only need 1 layer 3 switch, and layer 2 switches that support IGMP snooping, but I would not recommend that as the Layer 2 switches would just treat the multicast traffic like it was broadcast.
Here is the Cisco documentation about configuring IP Multicast with the 9300:
Catalyst9300 Configuration Guide configuring basic ip multicast routing
EDIT: I just noticed the Nexus 9300 licensing page, this is new to me, checking in on this and will let you know if I see anything that changes my answer
Sean Patton
Jun 29, 2018Yeah it appears with the Cisco Nexus switches you are required to license either an Essentials or Advantage package 3 or 5 year license. Support for PIM is in the Essentials package.
Thanks for asking about this, this was obviously new information to me.
Table 3 has the licenses Nexus Licensing Guide
U
Undisclosed #1
Jun 29, 2018
Is this your first multicast deployment? If so I strongly suggest you get things mocked up on your test bench first. Do you have any layer 3 switches laying around? If you are responsible for servicing this deployment then you should also master as much of the configurations as possible and create a topology chart of that configuration as well. If you don't want a Rolls Royce Nexus just go with a ubnt. If anything they are priced well for bench testing and deploying the results of that test without all the licensing of other providers. Also use wireshark in your bench test, once you can think visually in network terms and parameters along with wireshark you will become sought after for advice. Good Luck!
Edit: Also for use with WS and MCing testing: https://marketplace.informatica.com/solutions/informatica_mtools
You can also procure about 20 raspberry pi 3s if you want to measure the bandwidth scales in multicast. Once your bench is set up you can access the camera stream with twenty raspberry bots. Cool, now go look at all the packets in wireshark!
Troy Dickinson
Jun 29, 2018Thanks UD1. Yes, this would be my first deployment. I will need to somehow teach myself how to properly configure a multicast deployment. I am at a severe disadvantage. No, I do not have any bench gear to test with. My employer expects me to order the gear needed for the project without mistakes and be able to install the system(s) without major downtime or problems. Once I get the gear (if I can order correctly), maybe I'll get a week in our shop to figure it our. Maybe.
U
Undisclosed #1
Jun 29, 2018Hopefully the employer can understand the process of taking first time deployments from conceptual to the test lab and then onto the field installation. The risk only increases if a process is not used to deploy correctly. That risk can affect profits, customer satisfaction and overall deliverability of the project.
Unfortunately I have worked many late nights and weekends on my own time to get things tested out. The only reward is I actually enjoy it.
I updated the post above with a couple of options to start multicast testing. If it has to be done in the field and in front of the customer then be prepared as you can and roll with the punches.
U
Undisclosed #2
Jun 29, 2018Did you check out Ubiquiti's EdgeMax series or HP (Aruba) offerings?
I have a HP 2900 series switch (EOL) that can be used as a IGMP Querier.
Aruba 2920 Multicast and Routing Guide
for ArubaOS-Switch 16.05
Walter Holm
Jun 29, 2018
This switch is superior in multicast than anything on the market. This is even more true when you have to deal with routing and multicast. It has to do with it's fabric technology.
I am not sure of the rules here, hope this is okay, but if you need a discussion about this, my number is 844-993-7726 x710.
We specialize in dealing with multicast. Cisco and others are unable to handle the stress of multicast. Some of the higher end switching might be fine for handling at L2 and this has to do with the # of groups it supports, but do not mess around with PIM, everyone claims it just as easy as X but it will burn you. PIM is processor intensive, the switch above does not use PIM, it simply uses their fabric. Cisco's fabric cannot handle multicast, they still use PIM. In addition their fabric is a poor design as it sends multiple copies of a packet down multiple links (TRILL-like, but not TRILL as it doesn't work).
Feel free to call us. Thanks!
U
Undisclosed #1
Jul 01, 2018Look at the patents Extreme networks has submitted.
Decide for yourself.
Opinion = Leech.
Not saying your product is not to be respected but the tactic in your comments are...belated to the nature of the original post.
No troll wars yet. Just subside. I would like to bench your equipment, doing research within my own network to see if Extreme Networks pops up.
Walter Holm
Jul 02, 2018I significantly disagree with your comment, I addressed the original post, you may not like how I said it or that I self promoted and I stated I was not sure of the rules, but as you don't seem the authority on that subject (hence undisclosed and if you were, likely would have address this directly instead), I am not breaking a sweat.
Also concerning your research on Extreme, there is a slight problem, this technology is what Extreme bought, not what they built. Nortel started the kernel of the idea and Avaya finished it, then Extreme bought it. There is plenty of video describing and demonstrating this technology out there.
This technology has solved numerous large scale camera problems in transit system and casinos. Its not some paper solution. It is unique and I may sound bold, but it is that different than the competition. In addition, I added my experience in the mix of all of it.
If you wish to bench it, give me a call we can talk and I promise it will be as good as I said it is.
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