BIG IP to server - what cable should be used

[Marcin_12]

Hello I have BIG IP 6400 configured... Am I right that ports need to be connected to servers with crossover cables (not as usually straightforward cables?)

[Allan Bowman]

I don't have access to an F5 manual, but based on past experience with load balancers, the only time you might need a crossover cable is when interconnecting two load balancers. The connections from the servers should be standard straight-thru cables.

Allan

[Marcin_12]

Hi.
I have now more clear :)
If you set up 100 full duplex then you need crossover cable to connect servers.
If you set up auto then you can use normal lan cable...
regards

[Antoniov.]

Modern devices have autoinvert capacity :-)

Antonio Vigliotti

[Allan Bowman]

Yes, most newer Hubs, Switches, and Routers have the Auto-MDIX feature. This enables a device to connect with either a straight-thru or a crossover cable. However, I worked on a new FOUNDRY load balancer about 2 years ago and it did NOT have Auto-MDIX.

Some NICs have the feature, but it is not an "across the board" feature for PCs and Servers yet (they may have it if they have a 10/100/1000 interface).

Allan