As computer networking continues to evolve at a rapid pace, a key challenge for businesses is adopting new tools without sacrificing what they’ve already invested in older technology.
According to Robert Shaw, president and CEO at Net Optics (News - Alert), networks need to be built using different schemas than in the past, given that 10 gigabit is becoming so common. It is possible to do that using older 1-gigabit tools, thus preventing loss of ROI.
In a recent video interview at Interop (News - Alert) with TMCnet’s Erik Linask, Shaw explained that designing networks differently requires a paradigm shift when it comes to security and network analysis, which have traditionally be soloed from each other in organizational structures.
Today, he said, it makes sense for those two functions to become more integrated, if for no other reason than the power that comes from pooling money previously earmarked separately for performance and security tools. It’s now possible to use network control access tools that look at both types of traffic simultaneously. And, this can be done without sacrificing network efficiency.
Shaw also noted that, while only a few years ago it was acceptable to design certain areas of networks with minimal visibility, things have changed.
“You can’t afford to have a blind spot in the network nowadays,” he said.
Creating the type of integrated network described here, Shaw said, requires a focus on interoperability, and that’s something Net Optics takes very seriously. The company has a great working relationship with other manufacturers, and leverages that to benefit customers.
“They typically will get us advance devices so we can do the testing with our tools,” Shaw said of manufacturers Net Optics works with to ensure seamless deployment of networking systems. “In many cases the end customer will also test them together as they’re going through their network Beta and diagnostics.”
Linask and Shaw also discussed Net Optics’ new Director xStream Pro, 24-port, 10-gigabit switch, and other topics. Watch the full interview here.
Mae Kowalke is a TMCnet contributor. She is Manager of Stories at Neundorfer, Inc., a cleantech company in Northeast Ohio. She has more than 10 years experience in journalism, marketing and communications, and has a passion for new tech gadgets. To read more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.
Edited by Tammy Wolf
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