Lab 10.3.7.2: Optimizing Frame Relay Traffic Using Compression

Objective:

To optimize the Frame Relay traffic between the Houston router and the Orlando router, using compression methods.

Scenario:

Our company has analyzed the bandwidth usage on our Houston to Orlando Frame Relay connection. It has been found that we are using the Frame Relay line to the maximum. There is not enough money in the budget to upgrade the line. It is our responsibility to find a way to move more information across the link. Our solution: Compression.

Lab Tasks:

  1. Cable the lab as shown in the diagram.
  2. The next task is to set up the routers and frame relay connection as in previous labs:

    • Configure IGRP routing with the AS# 777.
    • Configure the correct IP addresses on each of the routers.
    • Configure the encapsulation type, DLCI, LMI type, and any frame relay maps.

    What is the command for setting the frame relay DLCI for this interface?



    Don't forget the
    no shutdown command on the interfaces.
     

  3. Before configuring compression on the routers, test your configurations by pinging the other router. This way you are insuring that your basic configuration is correct before changing it.

  4. The next step before adding compression is to baseline how much information can flow across the link. To do this, you will need a FlukeŽ meter capable of generating network traffic and throughput tests, or some type of network testing software that is capable of measuring line throughput. Execute several tests on your Frame Relay network, to give you a baseline of current Frame Relay link performance.

    In the space below enter your findings on the current network performance.











  5. The final step is to configure compression on the WAN interface.

    Houston(config-if)#frame-relay map ip 172.17.17.17 18 payload-compress frf9 stac
    Orlando(config-if)# frame-relay map ip 172.17.17.18 17 payload-compress frf9 stac

    Are there any other types of compression available? If so what are they?


  6. Rerun your network performance tests. In the space below enter your findings of your new network performance.










What has changed from your baseline test?