What is Disaggregated & Open Packet Broker?
A network packet broker (NPB) is a network device with copper and/or fiber interfaces that directs network traffic from switch SPAN ports and/or Network TAPs...
Network TAPs
TAPstack provides network operators with the ability to rapidly and effectively deploy analysis tools to observe and monitor high-speed optical networks.
What is a Network TAP?
Network TAPs (Test Access Points) are devices used in network monitoring and troubleshooting. They create a passive access point in the network, allowing the capture of data packets without affecting the network's performance.
How Network TAPs Work
Understanding the core functionality behind passive network access.
Insertion
TAPs are inserted between two network devices, typically in a line such as between a router and a switch.
Copying Traffic
They copy the data passing through them and send this copy to a monitoring device for analysis, logging or security purposes.
Pass-Through Mode
They let the original data flow through with minimal delay, ensuring the network continues to operate normally.
Types of Network TAPs
Discover the different types of Network TAPs for your needs.
Passive TAPs
Do not require power and rely on optical splitting for data capture. Suitable for fiber optic networks.
Active TAPs
Require power and can include features like signal regeneration and amplification. Used in both copper and fiber networks.
Aggregation TAPs
Combine data from multiple TAPs into a single output, simplifying the monitoring of multiple links.
Regeneration TAPs
Duplicate traffic to multiple monitoring devices, useful when multiple tools need the same data.
Fiber TAPs
Copper TAPs
Benefits of Network TAPs
Why organizations choose TAPs for network monitoring.
Transparency
They do not alter the traffic, ensuring accurate data capture for reliable monitoring.
Reliability
Unlike SPAN ports (which can drop packets under heavy load), TAPs provide a consistent view of all traffic.
Security
By providing a passive copy of traffic, they help in secure monitoring and analysis without affecting the network.
Use Cases
Common applications for Network TAPs in enterprise environments.
Monitoring
Network Performance Monitoring
Helps in pinpointing and analyzing performance issues and bottlenecks, enabling targeted optimizations for improved system efficiency.
Security
Security Analysis
Enhances the capability to detect and thwart malicious activities by offering an unaltered and comprehensive view of network traffic.
Compliance
Compliance Auditing
Secures precise data capture processes to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, maintaining accuracy and integrity.
Considerations
Important factors when deploying Network TAPs.
Placement
Proper placement is crucial for effective monitoring. Typically, they are placed at strategic points like between the firewall and internal network.
Cost
Although they provide greater reliability compared to SPAN ports, the increased performance they offer often comes with a higher price point.
Compatibility
Verify that the TAP aligns with the network speed (1Gbps, 10Gbps) and connection type (copper or fiber-optic).
Complement Your Network TAPs with PacketMaestro
Our Packet Broker Solution
The E.C.I. NETWORKS Packet Broker Solution, PacketMaestro, is designed to seamlessly complement your network taps, providing an advanced layer of traffic management and visibility.
PacketMaestro excels in aggregating, filtering, and distributing network traffic to the appropriate monitoring and security tools, ensuring no data goes unnoticed.
By integrating PacketMaestro with your existing network taps, you can enhance your network's visibility, ensuring comprehensive coverage and efficient traffic management.
Learn More
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