Gigabit Taps For High-Speed Network Monitoring

Comprehensive monitoring of network traffic is essential to prevent potential data intrusion efforts. By introducing Gigabit TAPs at critical network links, it is possible to receive a continuous flow of traffic information. These Ethernet network TAPs are passive devices that help to support the traffic speed from 1000 Mpbs to 10,000 Mbps.

Types of Gigabit TAPs



Gigabit TAPs can be classified based on the following three variables:

Speed: Gigabit TAPs are available in two variants 1GB and 10GB. A 1GB gigabit TAP can monitor data up to this range. They can be used as dedicated TAPs to monitor critical segments of a bigger network. However, 10 GB TAPs can be deployed to monitor large networks. They can collect data from entire network and forward to monitoring terminal.

Material: One can buy Gigabit TAPs made up of copper or fiber. Both the variants have specific advantages. Copper TAPs are durable and cost-effective. Optical fiber Gigabit TAPs are highly expensive and damage-prone. However, they can support high speed networks more effectively. Optical fiber TAPs are able to transfer data in a short time and with greater accuracy.

Topology: Gigabit TAPs can be configured for either aggregation or regeneration. In aggregation, the TAP collects data from different access points, integrates it into a common data stream and sends it back to the network administrator. Regeneration is just opposite of this process. In this case, a TAP collects data information from the targeted segment and sends it to different network monitoring tools.

Based on the network topology, size of the network and vulnerability, one can choose the best possible combination of these attributes.

Benefits of Gigabit TAPs

Gigabit TAP offers the following advantages as a network monitoring technology:

1.

Establishes lasting access ports without any modification in the network connections.
2.

Allows full-duplex monitoring with zero interference to the network traffic.
3.

No IP address is required for installation. It prevents potential attack on the monitoring devices connected to the network.
4.

Provides high speed access without affecting network speed.
5.

Additional TAPs can be added to the device in case the network expands in future. Thus, no additional investment is required in future.

Established in 1997, Network Critical offers award winning Access Technology Solutions for traffic monitoring purposes. They manufacture different types of network TAPs for distinctive monitoring requirements. This UK-based company offers innovative traffic mapping products that boasts modular design and passive access to the network architecture.