IBM 2210 Multiprotocol Router Information and Software
System Type: 2210

The IBM 2210 Nways Multiprotocol Router was released in 1997 as a versatile and comprehensive routing solution. While many mistake these routers as being exclusively Token Ring, the majority purchased and deployed were actually the Ethernet variants (despite this IBM still attempted to tailor them to token-ring as evidenced by the fact only the Token Ring variants were shown on stock photos and the brochure). Only the 2210-24M contained both Ethernet and Token Ring interfaces. Such luxury!

While being able to combine many protocols and interfaces, the -24M models are the most desirable for the unique prospect of bridging both an Ethernet and Token Ring LAN. Other solutions to bridge Token Ring and Ethernet exist such as the considerably older IBM 8209; however it is not a router like the 2210 and also suffers from some issues handling IPX on earlier models.

Because of the 2210's nature of (potentially) handling multiple interfaces, protocols and routing features later to become standard on modern routers-- it is one of the most complex routers ever made due to the fact newer routers have dropped many of the legacy interfaces and protocols simplifying everything to TCP/IP and Ethernet exclusively.

Some interfaces the 2210-24M supports:

• Ethernet: RJ45
• Ethernet: AUI (attachment unit interface)
• Token Ring: RJ45 UTP
• Token Ring: 9-pin STP

Downloads

Manuals

• IBM 2210 Nways Multiprotocol Router brochure
• 2210 Nways Multiprotocol Router Installation and Initial Configuration Guide
• 2210 Nways Multiprotocol Router Introduction and Planning Guide
• 2210 Nways Multiprotocol Router Service and Maintenance Guide
• 2210 Nways Multiprotocol Router Description and Configuration Scenarios - Vol I.
• 2210 Nways Multiprotocol Router Description and Configuration Scenarios - Vol II.
• 3746, 2210, 2216, and 2220 Interconnectivity: Frame Relay and Related Functions
• Token Ring: Why buy from IBM?

Firmware, Drivers, & Software

• 2210/Multiprotocol Routing Services Version 3.3: Configuration Program, Software, DIALS Client and Documentation (SK2T-0404-05)
• 2210 PROM Load/Dump Program code updates
• MRS vr1r code + DLLCNT1
• IBM Multiprotocol Routing Services Configuration Program 3.2
• IBM Multiprotocol Routing Services Configuration Program 3.1 + other programs
• MRS v1r1 code
• MRS v1r3 code
• 2210 multiple diskettes tools
• 2210 LDAP configuration templates

Connecting via Console

It appears the standard baud rate is very finnicky with these. I had to set it lower when connecting. Another issue is that their firmware appears to get corrupted easily over time and needs to be reflashed (via the PROM above). I still need to reflash mine. My pending 'Token Ring / Ethernet' projects with this thing are on hiatus until I ever get around to it.