Cisco 2950 and dropped packets

[dskalish19004]

Hello everyone

I am relatively new to cisco programming. specifically the 2950. I use these on a Comcast metro fiber network to set up Vlans between my site. Primarily for radio stations, and moving digital audio codec packets to and from sites., and of course, general lan/wan use.  Lately I have been having these storms of dropped packets. The problem is usually cleared by power cycling the 2950 at the affected site, and also the Cienna switch handoff to fiber. The Cienna switch is provided by Comcast.

Is there diagnostic software beyond utilizing a telnet or hyperterminal to troubleshoot? Comcast hasn't been able to confirm the cause. I suspect it is their Cienna device.. But I'd sure like to identify some data before jumping to conclusions. Basically one location in the metro fiber network, is a central location. It is elusive and nothing has been changed on this relatively small network of devices/locations

Many thanks

-Dave

[Mark Malone]

Hey

2950s are old switches and run into a lot of software problems , if you post the show tech I can take a look see if there is anything unusual with it

[dskalish19004]

Thank you Mark! you are kind to assist. i will do that. we are going to replace all these at some point soon. just need buy some time. 

I trust the 2960 is more stable with the software? 

[Mark Malone]

Yes they would definitely be more stable , more features available too and you can get support on the issues a lot easier as there not eol

The show tech will provide further info anyway the issue may not be on your cisco switch

[dskalish19004]

Hi Mark. luckily the problem was traced to too much light energy on the fiber. Comcast replaced equipment at their central office, and problem solved. Its an interesting science on how they can dial that down. 

anyway  you have inspired me to obtain new switches for this metro ethernet system. we'll make this into a project. many thanks for responding.