Typically, a network TAP (test access point) is a device that creates a full duplex copy of 100% of the network traffic flowing between the two (2) connected devices. The Bypass TAP functions differently than the traditional TAP. Instead of generating copies of the tapped link, the monitoring ports of the Bypass TAP are used to bring a connected tool inline without the tool physically connecting to the surrounding network devices. The Bypass TAP was developed specifically to resolve the problem of an inline tool causing a single point of failure in the network. In the event an inline device becomes unavailable, it is bypassed and traffic is automatically forwarded around the failed or offline tool.
There are some powerful network tools on the market today that provide cyber security protection for your organization's IT network. These tools include active, inline security tools. The potential problem with using them is that they can do the unthinkable by introducing a “point of failure” when inserted directly into the path of a critical link.
The Bypass TAP was developed specifically to solve the problem of an inline security tool creating a single point of failure.
Figure 1: In-line Security Device with Active Network Traffic
Inline security tools such as Next-Gen Firewalls (NGFW), Intrusion Prevention System (IPS), Data Leakage Prevention (DLP), Web Application Firewalls (WAF), and Denial of Service (DDoS) are designed to protect your organization's IT network. But in order to do this, these tools need to be placed into the path of a critical link. That way, if any problem occurs to cause the inline security tool to go off-line, the critical link will stop flowing. This is not a good thing for your critical links. Even if the inline security tool only needs a software or firmware update, you would need to schedule downtime for your link. Think 2:00 AM on a Sunday.
The Bypass TAP was developed specifically to resolve the problem of an inline security tool introducing a “point of failure”. This TAP will keep the link flowing if the inline security tool were to go off-line for any reason. Garland Technology’s Bypass TAPs will also keep the link flowing if the Bypass TAP detects link failure.