Net Optics iBypass HD - Manual (Page 5)

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iBypass HD
Chapter 1
Introduction
Net Optics iBypass HD is a high density solution for fail-safe attachment of in-line devices such as intrusion
preventions systems (IPSs), firewalls, and data loss prevention (DLP) appliances. (For simplicity, the acronym IPS
will be used for all such in-line devices in this manual.) The iBypass HD provides eight independent intelligent bypass
switches in a 1U form-factor, the highest bypass switch density in the industry.
A modular design enables you to configure the iBypass HD to fit your environment. Dual Bypass Modules (DBMs)
enable the iBypass HD to be populated with 2, 4, or 8 bypass switches. DBMs are available with copper, singlemode
fiber, and multimode fiber interfaces, and they can be mixed in any combination in the iBypass HD chassis.
Besides functioning as independent bypass switches, the pair of bypass switches in each DBM can be coupled
together in a high availablity configuration, supporting failover to a backup link or to a backup IPS. The device is
enterprise-ready with a full-function management interface, making the iBypass HD is a key component for building a
comprehensive, consolidated monitoring infrastructure for both network performance management and security.
IPS
IPS
DLP
DLP
Compliance
Compliance
Internet
Figure 1: A comprehensive, consolidated network monitoring infrastructure using iBypass HD
Fail-safe In-line Access
The iBypass HD provides fail-safe in-line access ports for up to eight IPSs. Each bypass switch routes data through the
IPS as if it were in-line, completely transparently. If the IPS loses power or is otherwise unable to proces the traffic in a
timely manner, the bypass switch changes to Bypass On mode, taking the IPS offline and routing traffic directly through
the network link. When the IPS is able to process traffic again, the bypass switch automatically switches to Bypass Off
mode and routes the traffic through the IPS once again.
No Traffic Interference
The network connections in the iBypass HD are fully passive. They never affect the network traffic flowing through
them—not even if the unit loses power. If the iBypass HD loses power from both of its redundant power sources, it
automatically enters Bypass On mode to keep the network traffic flowing (but bypassing the IPS).