I wouldn't say Extreme switches are all that great to configure or maintain, unless you're using the web interface exclusively. The CLI is convoluted, and the config is huge, even if you've just applied a few simple commands. I never liked using them, but I suppose it's personal preference. As far as being much cheaper than Cisco's, I'm not certain that is the case anymore, either. There are tons of Cisco reseller shops (www.networkhardware.com) that you can purchase refurbished cisco gear for a good price. I suppose if you want the Cisco support, you could buy brand new, in whuich case, yes, the switches can get fairly expensive. The new Cat-2950 Series is supposedly going for a good price, and they are a good switch, I've use them here at work; they are a replacement for the Cat-2900 model.
The CLI isn't that convoluted at all. I felt the same way after getting use to CIOS, but you get used to it in time. Plus SNMP support is also good. I wrote most of my tools for Linux using SNMP to manage servers, routers and switches.
As for support, we've never needed them. That switches have been running for more than five years now.
I like Ciscos for routers (even their telephony equipment isn't so bad), even their switches, but I'd spend my money more wisely (from a technical as well as economical POV) on Extremes.
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*Richard Plana, B.Sc., CCNA* Linux Junkie
