Datacom Systems SS series SPAN - Manual (Page 25)

Datacom Systems Inc
SPAN and Multi-Link Aggregators/Regenerators • USERguide
25
VERSAstream ™ Multi-link Series Overview —
The
VERSAstream ™ Multi-Link Aggregator can combine data from multiple Ethernet
network segments into one stream of data. A single Gigabit device, such as an intru-
sion detection system, protocol analyzer, or network probe can receive the aggregat-
ed data with just one network interface card (NIC).
The VERSAstream ™ also has an additional monitor port (2 and 4-port models avail-
able), so multiple Gigabit devices can receive the same data stream. This allows dif-
ferent monitoring and analysis devices to collect data from the same network seg-
ments at the same time, eliminating contention for access to the network.
Monitor more network traffic with fewer tools
Network administrators are no longer required to have a separate device for each
network segment to achieve simultaneous 24x7 monitoring of multiple links, nor do
they need to "switch" to a different segment each time they need to collect data from
it. The VERSAstream
™ simultaneously collects data from multiple network seg-
ments and aggregates all the data before sending it to the connected monitoring and
analysis devices, expanding network visibility and reducing the number of tools
needed on the network. Fewer tools means lower equipment and licensing costs.
And, because the VERSAstream
™ aggregates all the data before sending it to the
connected network device, you can always view the entire conversation even in
asymmetric routing, redundant, and load-balanced environments.
Enhanced security
The VERSAstream ™ enhances your security because it allows you to see 100% of
your network traffic. Total visibility means no missed packets and no chance of
missing a network attack due to SPAN/Mirror port oversubscription, traffic over-
flow, or many of the problems associated with traditional monitoring methods.
Improved problem resolution time
Aggregation offers a complete view of the traffic. Instead of collecting and manual-
ly assembling trace or log files from separate tools on separate network segments,
the VERSAstream
™ can easily let security and analysis tools collect all the data they
need in a single file. In security applications, events and false positives are recorded
fewer times. In all applications, data can be analyzed faster than ever, which
increases uptime and saves money.