Introduction
The SPAN and Multi-link Aggregator/Regenerators can combine data from multiple Ethernet network segments into one stream of data. A single device, such as an intrusion detection system, protocol analyzer, or network probe can receive the aggregated data with just one network interface card (NIC).
The SPAN and Multi-link Aggregator/Regenerators also have additional monitor ports, so multiple devices can receive the same data stream. This allows different monitoring and analysis devices to collect data from the same network segments 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 SPAN and Multi-link Aggregator/Regenerators simultaneously collects data from multiple network segments 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 SPAN and Multi-link Aggregator/ Regenerators 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 SPAN and Multi-link Aggregator/Regenerators 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 over- subscription, traffic overflow, 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 SPAN and Multi-link Aggregator/Regenerators can easily let security and analy- sis 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.
SPAN and Multi-Link Aggregators/Regenerators • USERguide