A device connection represents the path between a pair of network adapters. The most important examples are NetworkConnections, Cables, and TrunkCables.

The ConnectedVia relationship plays a role for device connections that is similar to its role for logical links. A Switch can be connected by a Cable to a Router, or by a TrunkCable to another Switch. Two Routers that are joined by a virtual circuit whose intermediate systems are not included in the topology are connected by a NetworkConnection.

Device connection classes instantiated by the IP Manager identifies the device connection classes that can be instantiated by the IP Manager.

Table 1. Device connection classes instantiated by the IP Manager

Class

Available to

Description

NetworkConnection

All IP Manager products

A network connection between two interfaces. A NetworkConnection can be a logical connection or a physical connection.

Cable

All IP Manager products

A connection between a network relay device, for example, a switch or hub, and a non-relay device, for example, a host or router.

TrunkCable

All IP Manager products

A connection between two network relay devices; switches are often “trunked” to provide redundant pathways through the network.