The 5420 Series is a family of high-performance, feature-rich, stackable edge switches designed for the next-generation digital enterprise. Available in 24 and 48-port models, the 5420 features both gigabit and multi-gigabit (1/2.5G) versions with up to 90W PoE enabling it to be deployed across a range of edge and wiring-closet environments. As a universal hardware platform, the 5420 also offers a user-selectable choice of Extreme’s flagship switch operating systems for a uniquely flexible platform.

The 5420 Series consists of 5420M and 5420F families to address a variety of end-user needs and price points. 5420M models offer field-replaceable power supplies and fans as well as four 1/10/25Gb built-in uplink ports, while 5420F models offer fixed power supply (with support for a second field-replaceable power supply), fixed fans, and four 1/10Gb built-in uplink ports. All models provide 30/60/90W PoE capabilities making them an ideal wired back end for wireless APs or in support of Next Gen powered Ethernet devices, such as digital signage, pan-tilt-zoom cameras, smart lighting, or point-of-sale terminals.

The 5420 Series supports IEEE 802.1 Audio Video Bridging (AVB) when running Switch Engine OS . This allows 5420 models to deliver reliable, real-time audio/ video transmission over Ethernet, meeting the quality of service required for today’s high-definition, time-sensitive multimedia streams.

The 5420 can be managed by ExtremeCloud IQ and ExtremeCloud IQ—Site Engine for centralized switch management, giving you a consolidated view of users, devices, and applications across wired and wireless networks for efficient inventory and network topology management. ExtremeCloud IQ enables zero touch provisioning, allowing you to quickly bring new 5420 switches online as well as select the OS persona.

Alternatively, 5420 on-box management can be done manually via a web-based GUI or generic command-line interface (CLI).

The 5420 supports a variety of Ethernet Fabric services, including Extreme’s Fabric Connect when running Fabric Engine and Extreme’s IP Fabric when running Switch Engine. It also supports 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 IT personnel.

The 5420 Series supports high-speed stacking when running Switch Engine via its two built-in SFP-DD stacking ports. Up to eight switches can be stacked using qualified SFP+/SFP-DD direct attach cables and optical transceivers. Stacking is not supported when running Fabric Engine.

IEEE 802.1AE MACsec is supported on 5420 access and built-in uplink ports, enabling the encryption and decryption of packets between connected switches or devices. As a link-only encryption, 5420 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.

All 5420 models support 30W, 60W, and 90W PoE that conforms with IEEE 802.3bt. This enables the 5420 to address the needs of powered edge devices, while eliminating the need for additional electrical cabling and circuits. In addition, 5420 PoE models support perpetual and fast PoE for even more efficient and reliable powered edge device operation.

The 5420 comes with a dual-persona capability, allowing you to choose your OS. Either the Switch Engine (EXOS)1 or Fabric Engine (VOSS)2 OS can be selected at switch start-up or changed at a later stage. When selected, the switch assumes the features and capabilities of that OS.

5420 OS selection can also be automated with ExtremeCloud IQ so that the desired OS can be automatically loaded at switch start-up, facilitating remote OS enablement.

1 Switch Engine is the new name for ExtremeXOS (EXOS) on all universal switch platforms, starting with Version 31.6.

2 Fabric Engine is the new name for the VSP Operating System Software (VOSS) on all universal switch platforms, starting with Version 8.6.