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In the dynamic world of IT networks and cyber security, visibility is crucial. The ability to see every data packet flowing through your network can make the difference between a smoothly functioning system and a network vulnerable to attacks and failures. At WETEC, we understand how important this is, which is why we want to introduce you to Network TAPs (Test Access Points) from Garland Technology. These powerful tools provide unparalleled network access for monitoring without affecting network integrity.
What are Network TAPs and why do you need them?
A Network TAP is a specially designed hardware device placed between two devices. It allows you to monitor network traffic by copying packets without affecting the integrity of the network. They are undetectable on the network (because they have no physical or logical address), can handle full-duplex and non-shared networks, and redirect traffic even if the TAP stops working or loses power.
This allows a third party to monitor traffic without being noticed on the network. It is a valuable tool for network administrators and security teams to gain insight into what is happening on the network and are often deployed for network monitoring, security analysis, compliance and performance management.
Despite many network and security teams not yet being aware of their existence, or thinking they have no application for their network, TAPs can be useful for almost any network.
Even if you have low utilisation on your SPAN port, according to industry best practice, it is advisable to use a network TAP as the basis for your network visibility, both now and in the future.
Popular applications for TAPS
1. Visibility in the Network
One of the biggest advantages of using a Network TAP is the complete visibility it provides in your network. This means you can see every data packet going in and out of your network. With a visibility point in your network, you can analyse e-commerce and web server traffic, monitor VoIP and real-time communication applications, and get the insights you need to optimise network performance.
2. Prevent network outages
With a Bypass TAP, you can prevent network outages. This TAP's function is just to deliver copies of traffic to the active, inline device. The heartbeat packets in Bypass TAPs allow you to easily take the active, inline device offline for testing, updates and changes when there are problems with your tools, while the live network data continues to flow. This means less downtime and a more robust network.
3. Speed conversion
With the rise of 40G and 100G networks, the question arises of what to do with old monitoring tools running at 10G. Instead of buying expensive new tools for these new network speeds, you can combine network TAPs with a purpose-built packet broker at the access layer. This allows you to configure different network speeds without huge costs.
4. Legal interception
If you need to prove evidence in court, a Network TAP is indispensable. TAPs are CALEA-approved because they ensure that all data reaches the monitoring or analysis tool and has not been hacked. SPAN ports cannot guarantee this reliability.
5. Connecting multiple monitoring tools
If you want to use multiple monitoring devices to analyse your network, an aggregator TAP offers a solution. It captures 100% full duplex traffic in both directions of your network and sends it to two monitoring ports. This allows you to send traffic from one point in your network to Wireshark and an APM, for example. Need more tools? No problem, you can easily use a 1U/2U chassis with as many TAPs as you need.
6. Protecting a SPAN port
Sometimes using a SPAN Mirror Port on a switch is necessary to connect an out-of-band tool or sensor to the IT or OT network. In this case, the best practice is to use a Hardware Data Diode between the SPAN Mirror Port and the out-of-band tool or sensor. This diode ensures that copies of network traffic are sent to the tool or sensor and prevents bidirectional traffic flows, so no data is sent back to the Switch Mirror port.
Discover the power of network TAPs
Network TAPs are an essential component for any modern IT infrastructure. They provide unparalleled visibility, help prevent network outages, support speed conversion, meet regulatory interception requirements, and enable the use of multiple monitoring tools. At WETEC, we are passionate about helping our customers with the best network visibility and security solutions.
Are you ready to add Network TAPs to your next deployment, but don't know where to start?
Contact our specialists today and find out how Network TAPs can help you take your network management and security to the next level.
