On April 28th, Garland Technology revealed its new 1G Modular Packet Broker System, in either a 1U or 2U Chassis. This is Garland's first 1G chassis system capable of intelligent port-to-port data filtering and aggregation between TAPs, and the chassis system supports all of Garland’s TAP modules including breakout, aggregation, regeneration/SPAN, filtering and bypass TAPs. This permits a new level of efficiency in network access.
The new chassis models redefine the standard for 1G network versatility, scalability and efficiency in three areas in particular:
REMOTE ACCESS
The chassis are outfitted for an optional Ethernet GUI or CLI Serial card for remote network management. This will be especially useful for SMBs with 1G networks spread over multiple locations. Network management cards can be added at a later date to meet network and business needs.
MEDIA CONVERSION
Convert from fiber (SX, LX, ZX) to copper (TX), and vice-versa, as well as from short-range fiber (SX) to long-range (LX, ZX). Consequently, the ability to use a broader range of network monitoring and security tools will permit networks to boost efficiency and reduce costs.
SMART FILTERING & AGGREGATION
A port mapping system allows network administrators to target traffic data selectively within packet layers 2 (data link), 3 (network), and 4 (transport) in the OSI model. The same packet data is shared among multiple monitoring and security tools, reducing the number of ports needed to run them.
On the 1U chassis the backplane filtering is between the TAPs, while the 2U can backplane-filter between TAPs within the same TAP row. With broad filtering support across MAC, VLAN, IP, DSCP, TCP, and UDP, admins won't have to sift through packets irrelevant to their particular monitoring and security responsibilities. Aggregation and filtering of only the data your tools require ensures that your appliances will not become oversubscribed.
Scalable Design Meeting Today and Tomorrow's Network Needs
The new 1G chassis models are agile, permitting the freedom to set up networks to your company’s specific needs. Scalability of design is key to making this happen: the 1U can accommodate up to 4 TAPs, while the 2U is outfitted for up to 12 TAPs. Each is compatible with any Garland network access point, including legacy TAP models. Modules are interchangeable 
and hot swappable on-the-fly, and can be added or removed as network needs change. Either system is capable of filtering data down to a single link—or up to 4 links on the 1U or 12 links on the 2U chassis.
The 1G Modular Packet Broker System sets the standard for high-density data centers – while remaining cost effective. Any 1G network scenario can be managed, including in-band monitoring and out-of-band active security devices – all sharing the same data, ensuring the tools see every bit, byte and packet®.
Imagine a cost effective device that allows for filtering of 4 to 8 links to your passive, inline devices (Wireshark, analyzers, and forensics) while also managing your inline NG-Firewall or IPS.
It all comes down to boosting efficiency and minimizing downtime-- particularly for SMBs running on 1G, these advantages can mean the difference between getting ahead and falling behind. For both monitoring and security, the 1G Modular Packet Broker System boasts a level of flexibility and performance tailored for the needs of any network over any number of locations.
To learn more about the 1G Modular Packet Broker System and how it can bring unprecedented levels of granularity, visibility, and security to your network, wherever it may be located, contact the Garland Network Design Team.
