It’s like turning a switch!

In a nutshell, Extreme Universal Platforms are all about the freedom of choice. Thanks to the user-selectable choice of Extreme’s operating systems: ExtremeXOS or VSP Operating System (VOSS), switches from the 5520 and 5420 Series can be deployed across a vast range of use cases and edge, aggregation and wiring-closet environments, at any time. It’s like… turning a switch! (pun not intended).

This feature makes ExtremeSwitching 5520 and 5420 Series an ideal wired backend for wireless APs or in support of next-gen Ethernet devices, such as digital signage, pantilt-zoom cameras, smart lighting, or point-of-sale terminals.

The desired persona can be selected at start-up or changed at a later stage. Once selected, the Universal Switch will assume the features and capabilities of the selected OS. But it gets even better! The activation of the persona can be done manually at boot-up, including via the system CLI or, it can be automated by pre-provisioning it in ExtremeCloud IQ, thus eliminating the need for manual selection.

Both 5520 and 5420 Series can be managed by ExtremeCloud IQ or ExtremeCloud IQ – Site Engine. In either case, we’re getting a comprehensive, unified management with a consolidated view of users, devices and applications across wired and wireless networks. Zero-touch provisioning from ExtremeCloud IQ lets you quickly bring new switches online as well as enable the selection of the OS persona. Pretty neat.

Oh… did we mention that each 5520 unit also includes a 1-year ExtremeCloud IQ Pilot subscription?

Extreme Universal Switches support a variety of Ethernet Fabric services, including Extreme Fabric Connect (when running on VOSS) and Extreme IP Fabric (when running on ExtremeXOS). Both series also support Fabric Attach for automated connection to either Layer 2 or Layer 3 fabric services.

Extreme’s Fabric Connect and IP Fabric enable the creation of virtualized networks that automate network operations, simplify network provisioning and enhance security – all while reducing the strain on network and your IT personnel!

The 5520 Series includes 24- and 48-port 1 Gigabit models, 1/2.5/5 Gigabit multi-rate models, as well as a 24-port 10 Gigabit model. The family also offers 30/60/90W PoE

A unique feature of the 5520 models is that they support Extended Edge Switching: an innovative solution that simplifies the deployment and operation of edge switches. As the controlling bridge of an Extended Edge Switching solution, the 5520, when running EXOS, can be combined with Extreme’s V300 and V400 Series access devices to create a single logical switch architecture.

The result? A simplified operational model that reduces costs.

The 5420 Series consists of 14 models split across 5420M and 5420F families to address a variety of end-user needs and price points.

IEEE 802.1AE MACsec is supported on the 5420 access ports, as well as on its built-in uplink ports. As a link only encryption, the switches can still apply services to the packet, such as policy or QoS, without compromising the security of packets across the link. With 128-bit and 256-bit Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) support, the 5420 provides the most secure link encryption.

Last but not least, the 5420 Series supports IEEE 802.1 Audio Video Bridging when running ExtremeXOS for reliable, real-time audio/video transmission over Ethernet. AVB technology delivers the quality of service required for today’s high-definition and time-sensitive multimedia streams.