Q
What are Juniper switches and what distinguishes them?
A
Juniper switches are high-performance Ethernet devices running Junos OS, known for carrier-grade reliability, advanced automation, and scalable architecture.
Q
Which Juniper switch series is best for data center deployments?
A
Juniper QFX Series switches deliver high throughput, low latency, and scalable spine-leaf fabrics ideal for modern data centers.
Q
How do I configure a Juniper switch using Junos OS?
A
Access the switch via console or SSH, enter configuration mode with ‘configure’, apply ‘set’ commands for interfaces and protocols, then ‘commit’ changes.
Q
Can I stack Juniper switches into a Virtual Chassis?
A
Yes, many EX and QFX Series switches support Virtual Chassis, enabling up to 10 units to operate as a single logical device.
Q
What management options are available for Juniper switches?
A
Manage Juniper switches via CLI, J-Web GUI, Junos Space, REST API, NETCONF, SNMP and popular automation tools like Ansible.
Q
How do I upgrade the firmware on a Juniper switch?
A
Upload the Junos OS package via SCP or USB, then run ‘request system software add <package> reboot’ to install and reboot.
Q
What security features do Juniper switches support?
A
Juniper switches offer MACsec encryption, DHCP snooping, port security, storm control, dynamic ARP inspection and RADIUS/TACACS+ authentication.
Q
Do Juniper switches support Power over Ethernet (PoE)?
A
Yes, many EX Series switches support PoE/PoE+ delivering up to 30 W per port for IP phones, cameras and wireless access points.
Q
How does Juniper EX Series compare to Cisco Catalyst switches?
A
EX Series provides open Junos OS, consistent CLI, advanced automation and typically lower total cost of ownership versus Cisco Catalyst.
Q
What are the licensing requirements for Juniper switches?
A
Core switching features are included; optional licenses such as Advanced Services or Virtual Chassis Premium activate enhanced analytics, EVPN-VXLAN and automation.
Q
How do I troubleshoot network connectivity issues on a Juniper switch?
A
Use ‘show interfaces’, ‘show log messages’, ping/traceroute tests and monitor alarms in J-Web or Junos Space to isolate and resolve faults.
Q
Are Juniper switches compatible with automation tools?
A
Yes, Juniper switches integrate with Ansible, Chef, Puppet and SaltStack via native NETCONF, RESTful APIs and Junos PyEZ.
Q
What is the power consumption of Juniper switches?
A
Power consumption varies by model; for example, EX3400 uses ~157 W at full load, while QFX5200 ranges around 600–800 W.
Q
How can I monitor performance on a Juniper switch?
A
Monitor with SNMP, J-Flow, sFlow, Junos Telemetry Interface and Junos Space Network Director for real-time analytics and alerts.
Q
What warranty and support options are available for Juniper switches?
A
Juniper offers a one-year limited hardware warranty by default, with options to upgrade to Juniper Care for 24×7 support and advanced replacement.
Q
Where can I buy genuine Juniper switches and accessories?
A
Purchase Juniper switches and accessories through Juniper Networks authorized partners and certified resellers listed on the Juniper website.